Test-optional colleges in Iowa
These colleges told the U.S. Department of Education that SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission (College Scorecard, 2024–25). Policies change and can differ for international applicants, scholarships or specific programs, so confirm on each college's admissions page.
Colleges (27)
| College | Federal test policy | SAT middle 50% | ACT middle 50% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buena Vista University | Considered but not required | — | 19–26 |
| Central College | Considered but not required | 1056–1120 | 20–26 |
| Clarke University | Considered but not required | 900–1160 | 16–24 |
| Coe College | Considered but not required | 1070–1290 | 23–29 |
| Cornell College | Considered but not required | 1120–1285 | 23–30 |
| Dordt University | Considered but not required | 1070–1330 | 21–29 |
| Drake University | Considered but not required | 1110–1350 | 24–29 |
| Graceland University-Lamoni | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Grand View University | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Grinnell College | Considered but not required | 1410–1540 | 31–34 |
| Iowa State University | Considered but not required | 1120–1360 | 21–28 |
| Loras College | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Luther College | Considered but not required | 1078–1406 | 22–29 |
| Maharishi International University | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Mercy College of Health Sciences | Considered but not required | — | 16–21 |
| Morningside University | Considered but not required | — | — |
| Mount Mercy University | Considered but not required | — | — |
| Northwestern College | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Saint Ambrose University | Considered but not required | 930–1170 | 20–25 |
| Simpson College | Considered but not required | — | 31–33 |
| University of Dubuque | Considered but not required | 980–1220 | 18–24 |
| University of Iowa | Considered but not required | 1130–1330 | 21–28 |
| University of Northern Iowa | Considered but not required | 1020–1280 | 19–26 |
| Upper Iowa University | Considered but not required | — | 17–23 |
| Waldorf University | Neither required nor recommended | — | — |
| Wartburg College | Considered but not required | 930–1200 | 21–27 |
| William Penn University | Considered but not required | 880–1110 | 16–22 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, admissions test requirements and SAT/ACT percentiles, 2024–25. Cost and aid in Iowa · SAT guide · ACT guide