10 Best Test-Optional Colleges in New Jersey 2025

<p>Students looking for the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/test_optional_colleges.html">best test-optional colleges</a> will find a range of great options in New Jersey. These schools allow you to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, focusing instead on GPA, coursework, and other parts of your application. This test-optional approach creates more flexibility for students with strong academic records who may not perform well on standardized tests. </p> <p>New Jersey's test-optional colleges include large public universities, private institutions, and online-friendly schools designed for working adults. Whether you want to study engineering, nursing, business, or education, you'll find affordable degree paths that fit your schedule and goals. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatDoesTestOptionalMean">What Does Test Optional Mean?</h2> <p>Test optional means that colleges and universities do not require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process. Students can choose whether to include test results based on whether they feel the scores strengthen their application. </p> <p>Instead of focusing on standardized tests, admissions committees evaluate GPA, coursework, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement. This approach gives students more flexibility and reduces pressure for those who may not perform well on timed exams or who are working on <a href="https://learn.org/articles/anxiety_in_college_students.html">overcoming test anxiety</a>. </p> <h2 id="section---TestOptionalCollegesInNewJersey">Test-Optional Colleges in New Jersey</h2> <p>Students searching for <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_no_sat_act_requirements.html">colleges that don't require SAT or ACT</a> will find several test-optional schools in New Jersey that offer flexible admissions and accredited programs. Whether you're a traditional student or returning to school later in life, these colleges provide accessible degree paths without requiring standardized test scores. </p> <h3 id="section---1.ThomasEdisonStateUniversity">1. Thomas Edison State University</h3> <p>Thomas Edison State University specializes in flexible, adult-focused education with a wide selection of online bachelor's and graduate programs. The university is fully test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for any undergraduate applicant. Instead, admissions decisions are based on previous academic records and demonstrated college readiness. </p> <p>Programs include business, healthcare management, cybersecurity, and liberal arts, all offered entirely online to fit around work and family schedules. This makes it a popular option for adult learners and transfer students seeking affordable, self-paced learning. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $3,419 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) </li></ul><h3 id="section---2.RowanUniversity">2. Rowan University</h3> <p>Rowan University offers a vibrant campus experience with strong programs in education, engineering, business, and health professions. First-year applicants with a GPA of 3.5 or higher may apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, though scores can be used to strengthen applications or qualify for scholarships. </p> <p>Students can choose from in-person or online degree programs, including flexible pathways for adult learners. Rowan's growing selection of online options makes it easier for students to complete a degree on their own schedule while still benefiting from the school's academic support and advising services. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $6,172 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---3.KeanUniversity">3. Kean University</h3> <p>At Kean University, students benefit from a diverse campus environment and a focus on real-world career preparation. The university follows a test-optional admissions policy that applies to most undergraduate applicants, relying instead on GPA and high school coursework for admissions decisions. </p> <p>The school offers over 50 undergraduate programs across disciplines like criminal justice, education, nursing, and design. Online and hybrid degree options are also available, supporting students who need flexibility for work or family responsibilities. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $11,858.70 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---4.StocktonUniversity">4. Stockton University</h3> <p>Located near the Jersey Shore, Stockton University blends academic rigor with a strong commitment to community engagement and environmental sustainability. The university allows students to apply without test scores, especially if their GPA reflects college readiness. </p> <p>Stockton offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in business, health sciences, education, and the liberal arts. The school also provides online courses and degree completion programs designed to support nontraditional and transfer students. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $13,606 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---5.RutgersUniversity">5. Rutgers University</h3> <p>As New Jersey's flagship public university, Rutgers University offers a wide variety of degree programs in engineering, arts and sciences, business, and public health. Rutgers also offers a growing number of fully online and hybrid degrees for both undergraduate and graduate students. </p> <p>The university has a test-optional policy that applies to most applicants, though some specialized programs may still recommend or require scores. Students are encouraged to apply without test results if they have a strong academic record. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $14,222 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---6.MontclairStateUniversity">6. Montclair State University</h3> <p>Montclair State University has a long-standing commitment to inclusive access and academic excellence. Students with strong academic records can apply without SAT or ACT scores under the university's test-optional policy, which applies broadly across programs. </p> <p>Montclair offers more than 300 majors, minors, and concentrations, as well as online and hybrid degrees in areas such as business, education, and information technology. The university supports students with a wide range of advising, tutoring, and career services both on campus and online. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $14,790 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---7.WilliamPatersonUniversityOfNewJersey">7. William Paterson University of New Jersey</h3> <p>William Paterson University emphasizes affordability and accessibility for students from all backgrounds. It uses a test-optional admissions process that places greater weight on GPA, class rank, and high school coursework. </p> <p>Popular majors include nursing, psychology, business, and music. Students also have access to fully online undergraduate and graduate programs, offering flexible scheduling for working adults or those returning to school after time away. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $15,704 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---8.NewJerseyInstituteOfTechnology">8. New Jersey Institute of Technology</h3> <p>The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is known for its STEM-focused programs, offering degrees in engineering, computing, architecture, and the sciences. NJIT has adopted a test-optional admissions policy for most programs, though applicants to more competitive majors may still benefit from submitting scores. </p> <p>The university combines rigorous academics with extensive research opportunities and offers online programs in areas like data science, information systems, and technical communication. It's a top choice for students pursuing tech-driven careers. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $16,334 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---9.SaintPeterSUniversity">9. Saint Peter's University</h3> <p>Saint Peter's University, a Jesuit institution located in Jersey City, emphasizes social responsibility, service, and academic excellence. It has a test-optional policy for most undergraduate programs, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores if their GPA demonstrates academic readiness. </p> <p>The university offers programs in fields like nursing, criminal justice, business, and education. Several programs are also available online, including options for adult learners pursuing degree completion. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $41,142 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h3 id="section---10.MonmouthUniversity">10. Monmouth University</h3> <p>Offering small class sizes and a student-centered approach, Monmouth University focuses on hands-on learning and personalized academic support. It uses a fully test-optional admissions policy for undergraduates, allowing students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, no matter their GPA. </p> <p>Degree options include health studies, homeland security, business, and communications. For added flexibility, Monmouth provides online graduate programs and hybrid course formats to meet the needs of working students and adult learners. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $47,240 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> MSCHE </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2> <p>The colleges on this list were chosen for their affordability, accessibility, and accreditation status. Each one offers a test-optional admissions policy and provides clear, flexible pathways for students of different backgrounds and learning needs. </p> <ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> All schools are accredited by the MSCHE, ensuring they meet recognized academic and institutional standards. </li><li><b>Admissions requirements:</b> Each college offers a test-optional policy for undergraduate applicants, meaning students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admission. </li><li><b>Affordability:</b> Schools were selected based on estimated in-state tuition, with the list ordered from lowest to highest to help students compare cost-effective options. </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowDoesATestOptionalPolicyAffectCollegeAdmissions">How Does a Test-Optional Policy Affect College Admissions?</h2> <p>A test-optional policy changes how colleges review applications by shifting the focus to other academic and personal achievements. Without test scores, admissions teams rely more heavily on your high school GPA, course difficulty, writing ability, and overall academic record. </p> <p>For many students, this can provide a more accurate reflection of long-term effort and potential. It also encourages a more inclusive process, especially for students who may have limited access to test prep resources or who face challenges with standardized testing. </p> <h2 id="section---BenefitsOfApplyingToTestOptionalColleges">Benefits of Applying to Test-Optional Colleges</h2> <p>Test-optional colleges open the door to more students by removing barriers associated with standardized testing. This policy helps level the playing field for applicants from different backgrounds and allows students to highlight their strengths in other areas. </p> <p>It can also ease the stress of the college application process and reduce the cost and time associated with preparing for and taking exams. For students who are strong in the classroom but weaker on tests, test-optional admissions can make college more attainable. </p> <h2 id="section---TipsForTestOptionalCollegeAdmissions">Tips for Test-Optional College Admissions</h2> <p>If you're applying to a test-optional college, it's important to consider whether your test scores will help or hurt your application. </p> <p>You should submit your SAT or ACT scores if they're above the school's average or if they help strengthen a weaker area of your academic profile. Strong scores may also qualify you for scholarships or honors programs. </p> <p>However, if your scores are below average or don't reflect your academic abilities, it's usually better to leave them out and focus on the parts of your application that show your potential, like your grades, course rigor, essays, and recommendation letters. </p> <p>Some other helpful tips include starting your application early, so you have time to carefully prepare all non-test materials. Choose challenging classes whenever possible to show academic readiness. And always double-check the admissions page for each college; some specific programs or scholarships may still require test scores even if the school itself is test-optional. </p> <h2 id="section---FAQsAboutTestOptionalSchoolsInNewJersey">FAQs About Test-Optional Schools in New Jersey</h2> <p>If you're thinking about applying to a test-optional college in New Jersey, you may be wondering how these policies affect your chances of admission, financial aid, and overall college experience. Below are answers to some of the most common questions students ask when considering test-optional schools. </p> <h3 id="section---DoTestOptionalSchoolsAcceptLowerGPAs">Do Test-Optional Schools Accept Lower GPAs?</h3> <p>Some <a href="https://learn.org/articles/colleges_that_accept_a_low_gpa.html">colleges that accept a low GPA</a> also offer test-optional admissions, but that doesn't mean academic performance is overlooked. Most test-optional schools still expect to see evidence of college readiness through your GPA, course load, and academic growth. </p> <p>If your GPA is below average, strong essays, recommendation letters, or extracurricular involvement can help support your application. Each college sets its own standards, so it's important to review admissions requirements carefully. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIStillGetScholarshipsWithoutSubmittingTestScores">Can I Still Get Scholarships Without Submitting Test Scores?</h3> <p>Many colleges in New Jersey offer merit-based and need-based scholarships that don't require standardized test scores. These awards may be based on GPA, community service, leadership, or other achievements. </p> <p>However, some competitive scholarships, especially those with limited funding, may still consider test scores as part of the selection process. Always check the scholarship criteria on each school's financial aid page to be sure. </p> <h3 id="section---HowCanICompareTestOptionalCollegesBeforeApplying">How Can I Compare Test-Optional Colleges Before Applying?</h3> <p>You can compare schools using resources like the <a href="https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/">College Scorecard</a>, which includes tuition, graduation rates, and average earnings for each institution. It's especially helpful for evaluating both academic and financial factors when choosing between test-optional colleges. </p> <h3 id="section---CanTransferStudentsApplyWithoutTestScores">Can Transfer Students Apply Without Test Scores?</h3> <p>In most cases, transfer students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores when applying to test-optional colleges. Admissions decisions for transfer applicants typically focus on college-level coursework, GPA, and credits earned rather than high school records or standardized tests. </p> <p>This makes the process more accessible for students who have already demonstrated academic success at another institution. Still, it's a good idea to review each school's transfer admission guidelines, as requirements may vary slightly by program or department. </p> <h2 id="section---ExploreDegreePrograms">Explore Degree Programs</h2> <p>Whether you're applying to college for the first time or returning to complete your degree, test-optional schools in New Jersey offer flexible, affordable options to help you succeed. Explore accredited degree programs at these colleges and find a path that fits your goals, your schedule, and your strengths here on Learn.org.</p>