How do test scores factor into the admission review process?

Your SAT or ACT score is considered alongside the rest of your application. To understand how much it matters, it helps to know how our holistic review process works and what admission counselors learn from each part of your application.

What role do test scores play in the holistic review process?

Holistic review means we consider the full picture presented by your application.

Your grades show how you performed throughout high school. Your course choices show how you challenged yourself within the curriculum available at your school. Your activities and personal statement give us more insight into your interests and experiences.

Your test score adds another academic data point to that picture. UM’s internal analysis found that standardized testing can help predict academic success. For that reason, scores can help admission counselors assess your preparation for college-level work.

Still, no single part of the application tells your whole story. A test score works with the rest of your application rather than standing apart from it.

Please note, first-year applicants who graduate from high school outside of the U.S. and transfer applicants who have completed more than 24 postsecondary credits do not have to submit SAT or ACT scores.

What’s more important, grades or test scores?

Your high school record remains a key part of the review process. Referencing your official high school transcript, we look at your grades and the level of your courses within the context of your school. This helps us understand both your performance and the academic opportunities available to you.

Test scores also provide useful information. They do not replace your transcript or outweigh everything else in your application. Conversely, a strong score cannot erase the rest of your academic record.

Think of your score as one part of a longer academic story. Admission counselors are looking at how all parts of that story connect.

When should I take the SAT or ACT for my admission plan?

Take the SAT or ACT early enough to receive your score before the final credential deadline for your chosen admission plan. You may update your self-reported scores until that deadline.

Below are the final credential deadlines for each admission plan. Compare these deadlines with the test dates and score release dates that follow. Do not plan around a score that will arrive after that deadline.

Final Credential Deadlines

• Early Decision I (EDI): November 13, 2026
• Early Action (EA): November 20, 2026
• Early Decision II (EDII): January 25, 2027
• Regular Decision (RD): February 5, 2027

Upcoming SAT Dates and Corresponding Score Release Dates

Upcoming ACT Dates and Corresponding Score Release Dates

Students considering Early Decision I or Early Action should plan for an earlier test date. Later test dates may be more useful for Early Decision II or Regular Decision.

Testing dates and registration deadlines can change. Confirm the latest information through College Board or ACT.

Testing dates last reviewed in July 2026.

Does UM superscore?

Yes. The University of Miami superscores both the SAT and ACT. A superscore uses your best section scores from multiple test attempts rather than relying on the results from only one test date.

UM can also superscore results from the Classic ACT and Enhanced ACT together. The ACT calculates a superscore using your highest English, Math, and Reading section scores from either version of the exam.

Do test scores impact merit scholarship consideration?

Test scores are one factor that may be considered during merit scholarship review. They do not drive scholarship decisions on their own. Our scholarship review considers all the information presented in your application.

All admitted students are automatically considered for merit scholarships.

What should I do before submitting my application?

First, review the test score requirements for your program and applicant type. Some applicants may choose whether to apply with or without scores. Those exceptions are explained on our Testing Policy page.

Then, look at your preferred admission plan and work backward from its final credential deadline. Make sure you have enough time to take the SAT or ACT and receive your results.

You can self-report your scores through the Common Application or Applicant Portal. Official scores are only required if you are admitted and choose to enroll.

Once again, remember that your score is not reviewed alone. It is one part of the broader story your application tells us about your academic preparation and potential at the University of Miami.

We hope you feel more prepared for the testing process ahead. You’ve got this!