Villanova University takes a holistic approach to reviewing applicants to our undergraduate programs. When applications are reviewed, Villanova will consider the complete picture – including the student’s academic performance and rigor, activities outside the classroom, recommendations, writing supplements, life experiences and, if reported, test scores.
First-year students are admitted only for the fall semester of each academic year. Students who wish to be considered are required to submit the following items:
- A completed application for admission
- Secondary School Report with official high school transcript(s)
- One teacher recommendation
Additionally, the following optional items will be considered if submitted:
- One school or community-based organization counselor recommendation
- SAT or ACT scores
- Financial Assistance application for those applying for need-based aid
Villanova University offers two application options for first-year applicants:
- Common Application at https://apply.commonapp.org/
- Apply Coalition on Scoir at https://app.scoir.com/app/signup/1100242
Testing
Villanova is test-optional for the 2026–27 application cycle, meaning applicants have the option to submit their SAT or ACT score(s) if they would like. If they choose not to submit testing, the remaining components of their application will take on greater weight in their admission decision and there will be no penalty for not submitting a test score.
Applicants who choose to submit SAT or ACT scores may either share official or self-reported scores. Scores can be self-reported via a form in the student’s Applicant Status Page. Students sharing self-reported scores will not be required to submit official scores unless they are admitted and choose to enroll.
To be considered official, scores must be sent to Villanova University directly from the testing agency (Villanova’s ACT code is 3744 and SAT code is 2959). Scores are also official if listed on the student’s official high school transcript.
The Admission Committee will superscore the highest subscores from the SAT and/or ACT from multiple testing dates.
Testing Deadlines
- Early Decision I and Early Action: test scores reported by November 10 will be considered.
- Early Decision II and Regular Decision: test scores reported by January 31 will be considered.
Homeschool Applicants
Applicants who have been homeschooled for more than one full academic year in high school are required to submit SAT and/or ACT scores.