Test-Optional Admissions Policy
WPI is pleased to announce that it will adopt a test-optional admissions policy beginning with candidates applying for entrance in the fall of 2008. This policy is designed to encourage a broader range of students to pursue degrees in science and engineering-related fields. It also acknowledges that standardized testing is not the most accurate assessment of academic potential for many students. Demonstrated academic achievement, coupled with strong motivation and creativity, are often the best indicators of a student's future success at WPI.
This decision is being made from a position of strength: over the last five years, WPI's applications have nearly doubled and first year enrollments have increased steadily from 675 to nearly 800. The quality of the student body is at its highest level ever. The current first year class has a 3.7 GPA, top 11% class rank, and 1290 average SAT scores.
WPI expects to continue to enroll the high ability students who have traditionally gravitated toward studies in science and engineering as well as to expand access to under-represented populations, such as women and minority students. These students may have hesitated to apply in the past because they thought their test scores would have made them less competitive candidates for admission. The adoption of the test-optional admissions policy will eliminate this barrier and encourage applications from all highly qualified students.
WPI joins more than 700 other colleges and universities in adopting a test-optional admissions policy. (Visit the FairTest website for a list of colleges and universities.)
Maintained by webmaster@wpi.eduLast modified: November 26, 2007 11:11:24