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Evangel University adopts test-optional admissions policy

Published on Nov 6, 2018 by Paul K. Logsdon

Evangel University has taken another step in helping prospective students determine the “best-fit school” for them, by adopting a test-optional policy.

Test optional provides a path to enroll at Evangel without taking an entrance exam.

More than 1,000 four-year colleges and universities have implemented test-optional policies. The University of Chicago, a respected research institution, is the latest to add its name to the test-optional list, according to Fairtest.org.

“We have seen cases where the entrance exam has been a barrier for some students who would be a great fit and thrive here,” said Chris Belcher, vice president for enrollment management at Evangel University.

“Test optional allows us to take a holistic approach to evaluating admission to the University. The goal is to help students learn, grow and succeed. For certain students, the test-optional policy will eliminate a hurdle keeping them from that goal.”

The National Association for College Admissions Counseling has widely held that high school performance is the best predictor of academic success in college.

“According to the NACAC research, applicants admitted without consideration of the standardized test scores graduated at equal or higher rates than those who submitted ACT/SAT results,” Belcher said.

There are exceptions

While test-optional applicants may qualify for certain merit scholarships, there are also Evangel scholarships that require selecting traditional admission with GPA and test score, such as the top-of-the-line Founders Scholarships. The University’s website details the specific merit scholarship amounts and eligibility requirements.

In addition, applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of less than a 2.5 will still be required to submit a test score for admission consideration. When admitted, these applicants will fall under the university’s probationary/limited load policies.

Finally, “Evangel’s test-optional policy does not replace NAIA Athletic eligibility requirements,” said Belcher. “Athletes should check with their coach for NAIA specific qualifications.”

The test-optional policy has been adopted and included in the University catalog for students applying to Evangel beginning with the January 2019 enrollment term.

For more information, call 1-800-EVANGEL, (417) 865-2811 ext. 7205, or visit Evangel Admissions on the website.

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FEATURE STORY: Springfield News-Leader, published Nov. 14, 2018

2018-11.14 Springfield News Leader A03
Springfield News-Leader, Nov. 14, 2018 // (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/education/2018/11/14/evangel-university-act-scores-sat-optional-admissions-policy/1929277002/