BYU ACT Requirements Aren't What Most Applicants Expect This Year
- 01. BYU ACT Requirements: The Complete 2026 Guide
- 02. Current Test-Optional Policy Details
- 03. Competitive ACT Score Ranges for Admission
- 04. ACT Section Requirements and Scoring Rules
- 05. How to Submit ACT Scores to BYU
- 06. Alternative Pathways Without ACT Scores
- 07. Historical Context and Policy Evolution
BYU ACT Requirements: The Complete 2026 Guide
Brigham Young University does not require ACT scores for most applicants through winter 2028, making it test-optional for the sixth consecutive year. However, homeschooled applicants who haven't completed sufficient accredited high school work must submit ACT scores as a mandatory requirement. For competitive admission, admitted students who submit scores typically have ACT composites in the 28-32 middle 50% range, with scores of 32 or higher placing you in the most competitive territory.
Current Test-Optional Policy Details
BYU extended its test-optional policy through winter 2028, meaning most freshman and transfer applicants can choose whether to submit ACT scores without penalty. Only 56% of admitted applicants opted to include test scores in the most recent admission cycle, demonstrating that strong applications succeed without ACT scores. The university explicitly states that applicants who do not submit test scores will not be at a disadvantage in the admissions process.
Despite being optional, submitting a strong ACT score can strengthen your application significantly if it accurately represents your academic abilities. The admissions office encourages students who feel confident in their test performance to submit scores, as they provide important context about academic readiness compared to other applicants.
Competitive ACT Score Ranges for Admission
While BYU doesn't publish strict ACT cutoffs, historical data reveals clear patterns about competitive score thresholds for successful applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students who submitted ACT scores fall between 28 and 32, meaning 25% score below 28 and 25% score above 32.
| ACT Composite Score | Competitiveness Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 32+ | Highly Competitive | Definitely submit |
| 28-31 | Competitive | Submit if representative |
| 25-27 | Below Average | Consider not submitting |
| Below 25 | Non-Competitive | Do not submit |
Norman Hollingshead, BYU's associate vice president for admissions, clarified that while the policy remains through winter 2028, admissions will continue monitoring application data to determine the best course of action moving forward. This suggests the university may adjust requirements based on applicant pool quality and institutional priorities.
ACT Section Requirements and Scoring Rules
When you submit ACT scores to BYU, the university evaluates only specific sections that contribute to your composite score calculation. For admission purposes, BYU considers Math, English, Reading, and Science sections while excluding the Writing section from evaluation.
- BYU only considers your highest overall composite score from all test dates they receive
- BYU does not use superscoring across different ACT test dates
- The Writing section score is not included in admission evaluation
- Science section is included in composite evaluation for ACT (unlike SAT)
- You may submit scores directly from ACT, via official score report, or through screenshot
If you choose to submit an ACT score, you must include it when submitting your application before the priority or final deadline to ensure consideration. Late submission of test scores may delay your application review process significantly.
How to Submit ACT Scores to BYU
BYU accepts ACT scores through three official channels, each requiring specific documentation to ensure proper score matching to your application. The university requires official documentation whether you send scores electronically or manually.
- Direct from ACT office: Official scores sent electronically through ACT's score reporting system
- Official score report: Mailed or delivered copy of your official ACT score report with all required information
- Screenshot submission: Screenshot from your ACT account including name, ACT ID, test date, and individual scores
For screenshot submissions, you must include five specific elements: your name in the top right corner, "Welcome (Student's Name)" in the top middle, ACT ID below the welcome message, test date, and all individual test scores. If the website layout requires two screenshots to capture all information, submit both with one containing three items and the other containing two.
Alternative Pathways Without ACT Scores
Freshman applicants who have completed sufficient accredited high school work can apply through the option that doesn't require standardized testing. The admission application guides you through assessing whether you've met sufficient high school work requirements for test-optional consideration.
Transfer applicants with fewer than 24 graded college credits also have the option to apply without ACT scores if they completed sufficient accredited high school work. Concurrent enrollment students similarly can choose whether to submit test scores regardless of their high school completion status.
International applicants applying as freshman or transfer with fewer than 24 graded college credits receive the same test-optional options as domestic applicants. This policy ensures equitable access regardless of applicant origin or educational background.
Historical Context and Policy Evolution
BYU initially waived SAT and ACT requirements for spring 2021 through winter 2022 semesters, then extended the policy multiple times through consecutive years. This represents the sixth consecutive year of test-optional admissions, reflecting nationwide trends in higher education admissions reform.
The 2025 extension through winter 2028 demonstrates BYU's commitment to holistic admissions evaluation beyond standardized testing metrics. Associate Vice President Hollingshead noted that admissions will continue monitoring application quality to determine whether policy adjustments become necessary.
As you prepare your application, remember aiming for a score above 25 places you in competitive territory generally, though top programs may expect higher scores. Specific score thresholds can fluctuate yearly based on applicant pools, so current data from admitted students provides the most accurate benchmark.
Key concerns and solutions for Byu Act Requirements Arent What Most Applicants Expect This Year
Who Must Submit ACT Scores at BYU?
Homeschooled applicants who have not completed sufficient accredited high school work or have not completed 24 graded college credits are required to take and submit ACT/SAT scores. This is the primary exception to BYU's test-optional policy, and these students cannot apply without standardized test scores.
How Does BYU Calculate ACT Scores?
BYU calculates your ACT composite using Math, English, Reading, and Science sections only, excluding the Writing section entirely from admission evaluation. The university uses your highest overall composite score and does not superscore across multiple test dates.
What ACT Score Should I Aim For BYU?
To be competitively admissible, you should aim for an ACT composite score of 29 or higher, with 32+ placing you in the most competitive range. Scores below 28 are generally advisable not to submit unless you're homeschooled and required to.
Does BYU Superscore the ACT?
No, BYU does not use superscoring for ACT test scores. The university only considers your highest overall composite score from a single test date.
Are Homeschooled Students Required to Submit ACT Scores?
Yes, homeschooled applicants who have not completed sufficient accredited high school work or haven't earned 24 graded college credits must submit ACT or SAT scores. This is the mandatory exception to BYU's test-optional policy.