Body
University Policy
Title
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Policy on Testing
Introduction
Purpose
This document explains the role of standardized tests in UNC-Chapel Hill's undergraduate admissions process, including which tests are required, how scores are reported and evaluated, and how the admissions committee handles multiple test submissions. It clarifies that test scores are one factor among many in a holistic review process, and outlines GPA-based thresholds that determine whether submitting a score is required.
Scope
This policy applies to prospective undergraduate students applying to the University of North Carolina, including international students and those submitting results from standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, AP, or IB exams.
Policy
Role of Tests
In accordance with University policy, as well as procedures approved by the Advisory Committee on Undergraduate Admissions, the admissions committee evaluates each candidate rigorously and holistically, with an eye towards assessing the candidate's capacity to contribute to the kind of campus community that will enable the University to fulfill its mission. Although each evaluation includes the results of standardized testing, these results do not comprise the sole or main criterion for admission. There are no cutoff or threshold scores—that is, no scores below which candidates are automatically denied admission, and no scores above which they are automatically offered admission. Instead, results from standardized testing comprise one factor among many.
Required Tests
For students applying for the 2025-2026 academic year, students with a weighted GPA of 2.8 or above (on a 4.0 scale) are not required to submit a test score. Students with a weighted GPA below 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale) are required to submit either an ACT or SAT score.
For students applying for the 2026-2027 academic year and beyond, students with a weighted GPA of 2.8 or above (on a 4.0 scale) are not required to submit a test score. Students with a weighted GPA below 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale) are required to submit either an ACT score of 17 or higher or an SAT score of 930 or higher.
If you do not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status, you will need to submit an English proficiency exam score when you apply.
Other Tests
In addition to results from the tests listed above, the admissions committee considers results from Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and other national or international exams. The committee may also consider results from state-mandated end-of-course or end-of-grade tests.
Reporting of Scores
If you self-report test scores on your application, we will use them in your application review process. If you are admitted and choose to enroll, we will require that your official scores be sent directly from the testing service. If you self-report test scores from multiple testing dates, we will "superscore", considering your highest score for each section among all of your testing dates.
For Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams, the admissions committee considers either official results reported directly by the testing services or unofficial results self reported by candidates on their applications for admission. Candidates who are offered admission and choose to enroll must submit official score reports from the testing services in order to receive academic credit or advanced standing.
Highest Scores
In evaluating candidates who submit results from more than one sitting of the SAT or the ACT, the admissions committee considers only the highest scores earned. For both the SAT and ACT, the committee considers the highest section scores earned across all test dates and calculates a new total score (SAT) or composite score (ACT) that reflects the student's best work (commonly referred to as "super-scoring"). When candidates submit results from both the SAT and the ACT, the admissions committee considers the test with the stronger results.
Related Requirements
External Regulations
The UNC Policy Manual 700.1.1: Policy on Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Undergraduate Admission for the University of North Carolina System
Contact Information
Primary Contact
Name: Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Telephone: (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Publication Details
- Issuing Officer: Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions
- Effective Date: May 23, 2024
- Next Review Date: March 1, 2029