In an ever-changing world, Belmont University is committed to remaining flexible and adaptable through a holistic admissions application process. Implemented during the 2020-21 undergraduate application cycles due to the challenges the coronavirus has placed on the college search process, Belmont will officially continue its test optional policy for the 2021-22 admission application cycle (i.e., for students applying for Spring and Fall 2022 admittance).
Undergraduate students who apply as a test optional applicant will not be required to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission and scholarship purposes. Graduate students can check with their individual program for admissions requirements. Belmont admission counselors are also available to help answer any questions and guide prospective students through the application process.
Belmont Associate Provost and Dean of Enrollment Services Dr. Chris Gage said that while the number of higher education institutions adopting a test-optional admission policy has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, most are likely to continue this path, and Belmont is proud to do so as the decision signifies a student-centric admission process. He explained, “We want to ensure equity in our admission process by acknowledging the unique skills and talents of every student interested in a Belmont education. Students are more than a test score, and our holistic review process guarantees all students receive equal consideration for admission and merit scholarships regardless if they are a test submitter.”
Belmont is committed to using a holistic approach in reviewing each applicant for admission, reviewing all required components of an application such as essays, resume of activities, transcripts and school counselor recommendations. Belmont will also equally consider every student for merit-based scholarships regardless of their decision to submit a test score. A list of frequently asked questions and answers about this policy can be found on Belmont’s Test Optional information page.
“At Belmont, the admission team is not just admitting students for their first year; rather, our framework is to admit future alumni, so our process seeks to honor all student achievements,” Gage said. “As with nearly every aspect of life, COVID-19 has disrupted college admissions and Belmont seeks to remove barriers to entry rather than make the enrollment process more challenging and complex.”
Another hallmark of Belmont’s COVID-era admissions strategies is the opportunity for more robust virtual visits. Freshman and transfer students alike can join Belmont admissions counselors and student tour guides for the newly revitalized Virtual Admissions Information Sessions and Campus Tours. These sessions cover general information about the University and its program offerings, as well as the admissions and financial aid process. The tour guide will provide a virtual tour of campus and residence halls, incorporating Belmont’s unique history with their own personal stories. These sessions are offered weekly through the semester and can be scheduled through Belmont’s BU4U accounts.
Of course, there’s nothing quite like experiencing Belmont’s campus in person. Although limited in size due to COVID-19, these tours and visits are still available. Updated safety guidelines for campus visitors can be found on Belmont’s admissions website.
