Hardin-Simmons announces modified test-optional admissions program

(ABILENE, Texas)–Hardin-Simmons is currently the first and only college in Abilene to create a new Recommended Scholars Admissions Program. This is a modified test-optional program, allowing principals and counselors to recommend students for admittance to HSU rather than using ACT and SAT scores.

Because a test score is not necessarily an accurate representation of a student’s ability to succeed, students will no longer be required produce an ACT or SAT score to gain admittance to HSU. Beginning with the cohort of 2021, Hardin-Simmons will accept recommendations from high school guidance counselors and principals in place of traditional test scores.

“For the incoming freshman class of 2020, we will begin to admit and award merit aid to students based partially on the recommendations of their high school counselors and principals,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Vicki House. “We believe the high school academic record and the endorsement of trusted high school faculty and staff who know the student’s potential and capabilities are better predictors of college success than an ACT or SAT score.”

The Recommended Scholars Program will be introduced with high schools in only the Big Country at this time. The initial cohort will be leveraged to obtain data and determine the future viability of a larger adoption of the program and potentially, a modified test-optional admissions path for the cohort of 2021.

Although there is suggested criteria listed online such as a minimum 3.0 GPA, leadership in community or home life, and demonstrated perseverance through work or other activities, students who do not meet these criteria can still be recommended.

To recommend a student for this program, please go to https://www.hsutx.edu/recommended-scholars/.