At UMKC, we understand that standardized test scores are not always the best measure of a student’s academic ability or their motivation to pursue higher education. Therefore, UMKC has a test-optional admission process.
Under the UMKC test-optional admission process, applicants with a 2.75 or higher University of Missouri System (UM) high school core GPA may be admitted to UMKC without submitting an ACT or SAT score. Depending on UM core GPA and completion of the required high school core curriculum, students may be fully admitted to UMKC or conditionally admitted to one of the academic support programs below.
International students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score for admission regardless of their program of interest.
Students interested in the following academic programs are not eligible to be considered under the test-optional process and must submit an ACT or SAT score
- School of Dentistry (dental hygiene program)
- School of Medicine
- School of Nursing and Health Studies (not required for BHS or BS-Public Health)
- Honors Program
2021 students applying to the following programs who were unable to sit for the ACT or SAT exam due to COVID-19 cancellations may apply without a test score and be reviewed by that department's admissions committee:
- School of Computing and Engineering (students interested in scholarships must still submit test scores)
- School of Pharmacy Early Assurance Program
- 6 Year Medical Program
- 6 Year Law Program
The following types of students must also submit an ACT or SAT score:
- Students interested in automatic scholarships
- Students who are homeschooled
- Student-athletes
Conditional admission to academic support programs
Students who apply test optional but do not meet certain core curriculum requirements may be admitted to UMKC conditionally, pending completion of an academic support program. These free support programs are designed to help the student transition successfully to UMKC.
The Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) Program connects incoming students with a dedicated Peer Academic Leader as they begin their studies at UMKC. We strive to empower each student to achieve personal, academic and financial success
by connecting students to resources and partners in their educational journey.
The Summer Bridge Scholars Program is an academically rigorous, eight-week summer experience to prepare first-time college students for success at UMKC. In addition to earning college credit and improving their academic skills, Summer Bridge Scholars develop a sense of connectedness to the UMKC campus and the larger Kansas City community.
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