The University of Alabama is updating its holistic admissions review process by reintroducing standardized testing as one of several factors considered for first year undergraduate admission.
For those who begin applying in August 2026 as first year undergraduate students who will start their studies in 2027, a standardized test score, either ACT or SAT, will be required for those whose cumulative high school GPA is below 3.0. All students who begin applying in August 2027 as first year undergraduate students who will start their studies in 2028 and beyond will be required to submit a standardized test score.
The update, which was approved by the UA System Board of Trustees, reflects UA’s commitment to evaluating students’ full potential based on balancing academic achievement, extracurricular involvement and personal experiences alongside standardized test results. The standardized test score will be used as a supplement to the applicant’s overall file and will not disqualify the applicant from admission.
The return to testing, which was suspended as an admission requirement during the pandemic, will ensure all students will again have the most evidence-based support for advancement and graduation. Explore more information, including FAQs, on UA’s admission site.
To support Alabama high school students during the application process, UA is launching two programs later in 2026 to prepare applicants for standardized tests. Tide to Success will be an online course offered at no cost to in-state students and focused on college readiness and test preparation. UA ACTivate will be a residential summer camp offering in-depth ACT prep and campus immersion.
Prospective students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to prepare for the admissions process and explore all that UA offers. Both programs are still in development and full details will be provided in the coming months.