Standardized Testing

The following information is meant to address your questions about standardized test scores. If you have questions about this or any other part of the application, contact your regional admissions counselor or e-mail us at admissions@dickinson.edu. We’re always here to help!

Test-Free Policy

In September 2020, Dickinson became one of the first liberal-arts colleges in the U.S. to move to a test-free admissions process and, in the summer of 2021, that policy was extended through the fall 2023 admissions cycle. This means that the admissions committee will not factor testing scores into a decision about enrollment, even if scores are submitted. View our Test-Free FAQ for additional information.

Test-Optional Policy

Dickinson's long-standing test-optional policy has provided students with a choice regarding the submission of standardized test scores. While many colleges and universities have only recently joined the test-optional movement, Dickinson made the submission of SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT scores optional for admission in 1994. This policy was designed for students who have demonstrated strong abilities in the classroom and who do not believe their standardized test scores accurately reflect their abilities. 

Score Submission

SAT Score Range (Enrolled Students)
Middle 50%: 1280-1430 (evidence based reading & writing and math)

ACT Score Range (Enrolled Students)
Middle 50%: 28-32 (composite)

SAT II (Subject Test) scores are not required for admission to Dickinson although applicants may submit these scores as additional information in support of their application.

Dickinson's standardized test codes are:

  • SAT – 2186
  • ACT -  3550