Lehigh will extend the test optional policy for the upcoming cycles, while continuing to evaluate its impact. First-year and transfer applicants for the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years (with the exception of applicants to the accelerated program with SUNY Optometry) can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT test scores for consideration. Prospective student-athletes should follow the NCAA and Patriot League requirements.
The Office of Admissions will continue to review applications holistically based upon the information they receive for each individual student. Each year the Office of Admissions seeks to enroll students who will thrive in Lehigh’s rigorous academic environment, and will contribute to its vibrant community in different ways. A diverse educational community benefits all, and so Lehigh values students who represent a variety of academic interests, different backgrounds, life experiences, perspectives and talents.
Students are urged to consider how to best demonstrate their college readiness and academic strengths. For some students standardized tests will reflect their ability to succeed in a rigorous academic environment, says the Office of Admissions, so prospective students are encouraged to take the SAT or ACT and determine if the score reflects an accurate picture of their college readiness. However, other students may instead choose to provide evidence of their capabilities through other ways, including curriculum choices, classroom performance, extracurricular involvement and teacher recommendations.
“We are encouraged by the quality of Fall 2021 applicants, both those who chose to submit test scores and those that did not, and feel confident they will all find success at Lehigh,” said Dan Warner, Vice Provost for Admissions and Financial Aid.
Lehigh’s holistic review recognizes an individual’s characteristics and achievements—which can be found in the school transcript, recommendations, essays, extracurricular accomplishments, leadership experiences, and other factors which might be unique to the applicant. The Office of Admissions also takes into consideration the influence that learning and living environments can have on an individual, as noted in the school profile, student’s personal background and more.
Results from an English proficiency assessment must be submitted for non-U.S. citizens unless the applicant’s first language is English, or the last two full years (not including current year of study) of completed formal instruction have been in English.
Prospective students can contact Admissions at (610) 758-3100 or admissions@lehigh.edu with any questions.
