Listed below are some Frequently Asked Questions that we hope you will find useful as you learn about our test-optional policy. Please know that the Providence College Admission staff is always available to answer any questions you may have. If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to call our office at 401-865-2535 or 800-721-6444 to speak with an admission counselor. Questions may also be e-mailed to pcadmiss@providence.edu.
Test-Optional Policy Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Providence College choose to make standardized test scores optional in the admission process?
After more than a year of study, the test-optional policy was approved for two primary reasons.
First, our research has confirmed that the combination of the strength of a student’s high school curriculum and the grades received are the strongest predictors of academic success in college. This new policy reinforces our longstanding message that a student’s high school career is the most important academic component in the review for admission.
Second, despite our efforts to communicate the importance of high school performance over standardized test scores, students often believe a low test score rules out their chances for admission. In keeping with Providence College's mission of serving students from diverse backgrounds, this policy encourages all students who have achieved success in high school to strongly consider Providence College.
What does Providence College's test-optional policy mean?
Providence College's test-optional policy, which is a four-year pilot program, means that students are no longer required to submit SAT and ACT scores to be considered for admission. Since the academic review for admission at PC has always focused more on each student’s high school performance than standardized test scores, this policy change allows students to decide whether or not they wish to have their standardized test scores considered as part of their application for admission. Students who choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores will still receive full consideration for admission and merit scholarships. Please note: Students who have taken a standardized test and who choose to enroll at Providence College will be required to submit their test scores upon enrollment.
Why will students need to send standardized test scores after they have officially enrolled at PC?
Test scores will be required after students enroll at Providence College so that they may receive appropriate academic advisement. The scores will also be used in the assessment of the pilot program.
If I have chosen not to take a standardized test, do I have to take one upon enrollment at PC?
No. Only those students who have taken a standardized test are required to submit the results after they enroll at Providence College.
What does a pilot program mean?
The test-optional policy will be piloted for the next four entering classes. Throughout that period, Providence College will evaluate the program before permanent implementation. The assessment will include academic performance and retention studies of test submitters versus non-submitters.
How does the Providence College Office of Admission evaluate applications?
The review for admission to Providence College has always been holistic in nature and considers a number of different factors. The Committee on Admission weighs each student’s academic record (evidenced by the strength of the curriculum and the grades received), the extracurricular profile, the required essay, two letters of recommendation and any other information that a candidate chooses to share. The consideration of academic preparation and the personal fit to Providence College is essential in our effort to shape each entering class.
If standardized test scores are not required for admission, why would students choose to submit their scores?
If candidates feel their test scores provide further evidence of academic ability and potential, they may wish to submit them. However, students without test scores will not be penalized in our review for admission.
Will anything additional be required in the Providence College application?
No additional requirements for admission have been added.
Does this policy include international students?
Yes. However, students whose native language is not English are still required to submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Does this policy include home-schooled students?
Yes. However, home-schooled students are encouraged to submit detailed information about the depth of their curriculum, including reading lists and a graded writing sample.
What if a student has already sent their test scores to Providence College and no longer wants them to be considered?
Students who wish to retract their test scores from Providence College must contact Erin Earley, Coordinator of Admission Services, prior to the submission of their application. The official request must be made in writing and can be sent to eearley@providence.edu or mailed to: Providence College, Office of Admission, 222 Harkins Hall, 549 River Avenue, Providence, RI 02918. If students do not want their test scores considered, it is their responsibility to ensure that the scores are not printed on the high school transcript.