Navigating Admissions at Lehigh University: Understanding the Test-Optional Policy and Holistic Review
Lehigh University, known for its rigorous academic environment and commitment to student success, has implemented significant changes to its admissions process. These changes aim to provide flexibility and ensure equitable access for all applicants, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This article delves into Lehigh's SAT score policy, application deadlines, admission requirements, and the holistic approach the university employs when evaluating candidates.
Test-Optional Policy: An Indefinite Commitment
Lehigh University has adopted a test-optional policy for the SAT or ACT, and it will utilize a test-optional policy for the SAT or ACT indefinitely. This means that applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. This decision reflects Lehigh's understanding that standardized tests may not always accurately reflect a student's potential and abilities. Lehigh has waived the requirement of submitting SAT and ACT scores for applicants for the class of 2025 and transfer students for the 2020-2021 academic year.
However, student athletes must still comply with the Patriot League’s regulations that require standardized testing during the application process.
For students who choose to submit their scores, Lehigh reports that half the applicants admitted to Lehigh University who submitted test scores have an SAT score between 1370 and 1500 or an ACT score of 31 and 34. However, one quarter of admitted applicants achieved scores above these ranges and one quarter scored below these ranges.
It is important to note that even though submitting scores is optional, Lehigh still requires a student, once committed to attending Lehigh, to still submit test scores for institutional data collection purposes. However, for students that chose not to take the SAT or ACT and applied exclusively to test optional schools, an exception will be granted.
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Holistic Review: Beyond Test Scores
Lehigh emphasizes a holistic approach to reviewing applications. “We do take a very holistic approach to reviewing applications,” Bunnick said. This means that admissions officials consider a wide range of factors beyond just test scores and GPA. These factors include:
- Academic Performance: GPA is a very important academic factor. Lehigh’s Office of Admissions will continue to review transcripts based on the individual school’s practices and policies during our review process. Alternative grading methods being utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic will be honored in the same manner as the school’s traditional grading scale.
- Recommendations: Recommendation are considered important for admissions officials at Lehigh University.
- Authenticity: Authenticity is the key to submitting an application that stands out.
- Rigor of High School Courses: Both schools emphasized the importance of the rigor of high school courses over standardized test scores when examining applications in order to allow a more diverse group of students. Ithaca encouraged students to challenge themselves through dual enrollment, AP or IB classes.
By considering these factors, Lehigh aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of each applicant's strengths, experiences, and potential contributions to the university community.
Application Deadlines and Options
Lehigh University offers several application options with varying deadlines:
- Early Decision (binding): Lehigh has two rounds of binding Early Decision. Early Decision Deadline Nov.
- Regular Decision: Lehigh also offer Regular Decision application opportunities. Application Deadline Jan. 1.
- Transfer Application: Lehigh also offer Transfer application opportunities.
The application deadline at Lehigh University is Jan. 1. SAT/ACT Scores Must Be Received ByJan. 15.
IDEAS Program
The deadline for IDEAS applications is January 1st. It is possible that a small number of exceptional students may be admitted to the program following the completion of their freshman year. Admission at this point would be highly competitive and based upon freshman year GPA, faculty recommendations, and space availability. The IDEAS Program will not consider transfers beyond the end of a student's first year.
Read also: Cumulative vs. Weighted GPA Explained
English Proficiency
Additionally, Lehigh requires official results from an English proficiency assessment for applicants whose first language is not English. Exceptions are granted if the applicant’s first language is English, or the last two full years (not including the current year of study) of completed formal instruction have been in English. The TOEFL and IELTS are preferred, however, Duolingo English Test will be considered if those exams are not available to the student. Scores must be submitted directly from the testing/assessment agency, and the most competitive candidates score above a 90 on the TOEFL, 7.0 on the IELTS, or 110 on Duolingo.
Acceptance Rate and Selectivity
Lehigh University has an acceptance rate of 26%. Bunnick speculates a possibility for a small increase in the applicant pool, but said he does not believe that Lehigh’s rate of acceptance and selectivity will be compromised.
COVID-19 Considerations
Lehigh will continue to act with sensitivity as schools and families make decisions that best suit their students. You can find continued updates on the COVID-19 Information Center. Scores from the new online format for AP exams will be honored according to our existing policies. Lehigh’s test optional process will be used as a pilot program to see if it makes sense to use in future admissions processes, Bunnick said. “For this year, since it’s going to be so hard to take the test,” she said.
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