Gonzaga University is “test optional”:
Gonzaga University will not require an SAT or ACT score for those applying for college admission. There are two important notes to this policy; homeschooled students with less than 30 semester or 45 quarter college credits (at the time of applying) must submit an SAT or ACT and international students are required to submit a test score to demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP, SAT, or ACT.
We will continue to review applications holistically, as described below. Students applying without a test have access to everything available to test-takers: admission, automatic merit scholarships, direct admission to nursing, the Honors Program, and other Gonzaga scholarships.
Review our Test-Optional FAQ for additional information.
We will continue to review applications holistically, as described below. Students applying without a test have access to everything available to test-takers: admission, automatic merit scholarships, direct admission to nursing, the Honors Program, and other Gonzaga scholarships.
Review our Test-Optional FAQ for additional information.
As an applicant for admission, you are expected to graduate from an accredited high school with a college preparatory curriculum while showing evidence of ability to complete the University's requirements for graduation.
The following pattern of coursework is recommended for admission to Gonzaga:
| English | 4 years |
| Mathematics | 3-4 years (including algebra I, geometry, algebra II / trigonometry) |
| History / Social Studies | 3 years |
| Foreign Language | 2-3 years of a single language, including American Sign Language |
| Science | 3-4 years (natural or physical laboratory science) |
Course rigor is a key component in determining admissibility and merit awards. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves with a curriculum they can manage, including AP, IB, and honors courses (if offered by the high school). Students are also encouraged to take 4 to 5 academic courses in senior year.
Gonzaga's Office of Admission reviews each application thoroughly. Although we have no set minimum GPA/test score requirements and we are "test-optional", please consider guidelines below. Any prospective student may have an admission interview, but they are highly encouraged if a student has any one of the following:
- An unweighted GPA at or below 3.2
- An academic or disciplinary history that requires more description than the application allows
- An SAT combined score for Evidence Based Reading and Writing and Math at or below 1150
- An ACT composite score at or below 23**
Interviews may be done in person as part of a campus visit, virtually, or possibly where you live. Please contact your Admission Counselor to discern the best option.
Gonzaga's mid-50% ranges*:
- GPA - 3.53-3.92
- SAT - 1280-1410
- ACT - 29-32**
*The mid-50% range shows that half of our first-year class had grades/scores between those ranges, and 25% had above the top number, and 25% had below the bottom number.
** Beginning fall 2025, the ACT Science subject test is optional for all students who do decide to submit their ACT scores as part of the admission process.
The Office of Admission carefully considers the following items as part of the application to Gonzaga University:
- Curriculum and school
- Grade point average and grade trends
- College essay and supplemental question response
- Activities and honors
- Character
- SAT or ACT scores (if submitted; Gonzaga University is “test optional".)
*Learn about admission process, English proficiency requirements, and test score policies for international students here.
*Consideration of Disciplinary and Criminal Conviction in Gonzaga University Admission: Gonzaga University considers the factors listed above when reviewing undergraduate applications for admission. Gonzaga University does ask whether an applicant has a school disciplinary record or criminal history. An applicant will not automatically or unreasonably be denied admission due to criminal history or disciplinary action. However, additional information may be requested to provide greater context to the nature and timing of violations prior to an admission decision being made.
Our Evaluation Process
Nursing Requirements
Gonzaga's Nursing program is considered “direct admission". Students must apply to Gonzaga Early Action (Nov. 15) and declare nursing as their major on the Common Application to be considered for the nursing program.