Babson Moves to Test-Optional Policy for 2021–2022 Academic Year

Babson's Tomasso Hall
Listen

Standardized tests are now optional for all new applicants who apply during the 2020–2021 academic year. Babson’s optional test policy applies to high school students, applying to the undergraduate school, for the 2021-22 academic year.

“We hope to make a difference in relieving some of the stress that goes along with an already stressful process for the many students and families who strive to benefit from a Babson education,” said Courtney Minden, vice president of enrollment management.

Prospective students who are non-native English speakers will still be required to submit English language exam scores that demonstrate their proficiency in the language, or request a waiver.

The move was prompted by the widespread cancellation of standardized test-taking opportunities this spring nationwide, uncertainty about future test dates, and limited access to in-person college visits—leaving students and families scrambling for answers, resources, and timelines.

“We believe that this new policy will offer students and their families the maximum amount of flexibility to submit an application to Babson with barriers to access brought on by this unprecedented time,” said Minden.

While students will not be required by the college to submit test results for the SAT or ACT, they may still submit scores voluntarily. Students applying for admission can decide for themselves whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.

As part of the new policy, students who do not submit test scores will be treated in the same manner as those who do—all applicants will be considered in a contextual and holistic way.

This test-optional policy will be reviewed next spring.

Posted in Community

More from Community »

Latest Stories

First row (left to right): Laura Bautista ’29, Ezel Bhatty ’29, Sydney Fojas ’29; Second row (left to right): Lucas Lebrija ’29, Tia Malhotra ’29, Remy Witt ’29
Class of 2029 Blank Leadership Scholars Bring Excitement to Campus The Class of 2029 Blank Leadership Scholars arrive at Babson equipped with entrepreneurial spirit and social impact experience, from launching nonprofits and tech solutions to championing environmental education.
By
Melissa Savignano
Writer
Melissa Savignano
Melissa Savignano, a content marketing manager at Babson College, has worked in higher education for almost a decade, where she tells authentic, compelling campus and community stories. Before Babson, she managed communications for Boston University’s largest college, the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. She previously worked in client relations, helping brands of various sizes launch content marketing strategies and storytelling initiatives. When not at work, you will find her in the city of Boston, probably at the movie theater.
September 25, 2025

Posted in Community

An overview of the fair with students in a blur as the move around
Unscripted Moment: Club Fair Blur In our occasional photo series, staff photographer Nic Czarnecki shares a unique, long-exposure image to illustrate the movement of students at the Club Fair.
By
September 24, 2025

Posted in Community

Two students cheer with pompoms during move-in day
No. 1 Again: Babson Tops Entrepreneurship Ranking for 29th Consecutive Time For the 29th consecutive time, U.S. News & World Report has named Babson College the No. 1 undergraduate school for entrepreneurship.
By
September 23, 2025

Posted in Community