Although technically TO, U Washington is functionally test blind for the vast majority of applicants. Readers don’t see submitted test scores and they do say that high test scores are used in a ‘handful’ of cases where the student wouldn’t otherwise have been admitted.
The UW is technically test-optional. However, test-optional can mean different things at different schools. At the UW, you will not be disadvantaged for sending low scores or for not sending scores. In fact, when reading your application, the reviewers will not see your test scores, if provided. However, test scores that fall above our middle 50% (see the freshman profile for more information) may be considered for a handful of students who may not otherwise be admitted.
Historically, the SAT/ACT were a small consideration in the holistic review compared to curriculum quality and performance in courses. Moving forward, curriculum quality and performance in courses will remain the focus of our review of students’ academic preparation.
The UW’s holistic review considers far more than academic performance. Personal achievements and context are also important considerations. Read more about the factors that go into holistic review.