Test-Optional Information and Test Score Policy

Students can use the University of Dayton's average ACT and SAT scores as a benchmark for the competitiveness of their own test scores and can submit scores if they believe they are an accurate reflection of their academic ability, or if the scores provide additional evidence for admission.

Please note, the average scores included above are for reference purposes, and only include scores from students who did not apply test optional.

Of the students admitted to the University of Dayton entering in Fall 2023, 60.5 percent applied test optional.

The University of Dayton has a holistic admission process in which we seek to identify and admit students who can learn, lead, serve and be successful at the University of Dayton. These are the most common factors we consider when making our admission decisions:

• Weighted grade point average in college prep curriculum.
• Rigorous coursework, considered in the context of the high school.
• Grades in a college-level course or dual credit course (e.g., Ohio’s College Credit Plus program).
• Information provided in an applicant’s personal essay (not required for UDSA applicants).
• Letters of recommendation.
• Submitted test scores (optional). Please note that test scores are never the sole or primary reason for an admissions decision; rather, they are considered within the context of the supplemental information.

During the application process, applicants will be asked whether they would like to submit their test score(s) or apply test-optional, without scores. If an applicant decides to submit an ACT or SAT score which they have already received, we prefer they self-report the score(s) on the application and have the score(s) sent directly to UD from the testing organization.

If an applicant applies test-optional, but they have already sent their test score(s), or the test score(s) appear on their high school transcript, we will remove the score(s) from our admission review process. We ask all students who have taken a test to submit the score after they decide to enroll at UD. This is for our records only and does not affect their admission decision or financial aid offer.

If an applicant originally indicated that they were applying for test-optional admission, but they later decide that they would like us to consider their test scores before the admission decision is made, they can let us know by emailing admission@udayton.edu. Students may later decide to submit their scores no later than February 1 of their senior year, if they believe the scores add value to their candidacy.

The University of Dayton is committed to making scholarship opportunities available for all accepted students. An applicant’s scholarship eligibility will not be impacted by a test-optional application. Students who choose to submit or resubmit test scores must do so by February 1 of their senior year. Learn more about scholarships.

International students may be required to submit proof of english language proficiency. 

We invite you to reach out to our Recruitment and Admission team at admission@udayton.edu or 800-UD PRIDE (800-837-7433).

Both the ACT and SAT have optional essay sections, they are not required at the University of Dayton. 

Yes, the University of Dayton does superscore both the ACT and the SAT. Some students choose to take the ACT or SAT multiple times. Superscoring is the practice of taking your highest subscores from either the ACT or SAT to create a new, higher superscore.

Please note, the average scores shared above include superscores.

Students may submit test scores through the December ACT or SAT test dates of their senior year of high school. Updated scores must be received by February 1. 

Incoming, first-year students will automatically be considered for a merit scholarship as part of the application review process. If students apply with ACT or SAT scores, these scores will be used during scholarship consideration.

In most cases, scores should come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to the University of Dayton.

• University of Dayton ACT code: 3342
• University of Dayton SAT code: 1834

If you already took the test but didn't have your scores sent to the University of Dayton, you can ask your counselor to send them via your high school transcript, request them from the SAT or ACT, or contact us and we'd be happy to help.