Yes, the University of Virginia is test optional for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle. You can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores, and UVA states you will not be disadvantaged by going test optional.
How the Test-Optional Policy Works
When you fill out the Common Application for UVA, you’ll select whether you want to share your test scores or apply without them. That choice is made at the time you submit your application, but it isn’t necessarily final. If you change your mind, you can update your decision by emailing the admissions office before the relevant deadline: 5 PM Eastern on November 22nd for Early Decision and Early Action applicants, or 5 PM Eastern on January 15th for Regular Decision applicants.
UVA has no preference between the SAT and the ACT. If you have scores from both, you can submit one, both, or neither.
How UVA Handles Submitted Scores
If you do submit scores, UVA superscores the SAT. That means they pull your highest score from each section across every time you took the test, then combine them into the best possible total. The university encourages you to send all your SAT results so they can do this recombination.
The ACT is treated differently. UVA does not recalculate ACT scores across test dates. You should report your composite and sub-scores exactly as they appear on your official score report.
Scholarships and Test Scores
Test scores are not required for UVA’s most prestigious merit awards. The Jefferson Scholars Foundation, which administers the university’s flagship scholarship program, confirmed that SAT, ACT, AP, and IB scores are not considered during its selection process. If you’re hoping for a merit scholarship, applying test optional will not remove you from consideration.
Should You Submit Your Scores?
UVA’s language is clear that going test optional carries no penalty, but that doesn’t mean scores are irrelevant when submitted. Strong test results can reinforce an already competitive academic profile, particularly if your scores align with or exceed UVA’s admitted student range. If your scores fall below the middle 50% of admitted students, going test optional lets the rest of your application, including your transcript, course rigor, essays, and extracurriculars, carry the weight instead.
A practical approach: look up UVA’s most recently published middle 50% SAT and ACT ranges for admitted students. If your scores land comfortably within or above that range, submitting them adds a data point in your favor. If they fall below, you’re likely better off letting other parts of your application speak for themselves.