Test-Optional Admission

In 2019, Xavier joined a national movement by adopting a test-optional admission policy. This allows us to review an application that you feel most confidently reflects your distinct strengths and work throughout your high school career.

A group of students listening to a speaker during an information session

Should I apply test-optional?

Mike Garcia, Assistant Dean of Admission, talks about what it means to apply test-optional at Xavier and how to decide if it’s the right move for you.

Should I apply test-optional? (about 2 min)

A Xavier student smiles with her parents in front of Bellarmine Chapel. All three of them are crossing their arms to form an X.

Parents and Families

Test-optional admission is a new concept for parents and families too. Julie Nelson, Assistant Dean of Admission, has a few words of wisdom to help you navigate this admission policy with your student.

How do I best support my student? (about 2 min)

Three Xavier students sitting outside on white Adirondack chairs in the springtime

Advice from Xavier students

Many Xavier students have applied test-optional – and they have some advice for you. Check out how some of our Musketeers made the decision to apply test-optional and what they would tell you to think about as you’re working on your application.

Get advice from Xavier students

A group of about twenty Xavier admission counselors gather together for a group photo. Everyone is crossing their arms to form an X.

Ask your admission counselor

Your admission counselor would love to have a one-on-one conversation with you to talk about test-optional admission and answer your application questions.

Ask your admission counselor about test-optional

Five students work out a problem on a white board using different colored post-it notes.

Test-Optional FAQ

There are always a few Frequently Asked Questions – view Xavier’s test-optional FAQs.

Read Xavier’s test-optional FAQs