2027 Does Herzing University Require GRE, GMAT, or Test Scores for Online Programs?

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Does Herzing University require SAT/ACT scores as part of their undergraduate admissions process?

Herzing University does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission to its online undergraduate programs. This policy allows applicants with strong academic backgrounds or relevant experience to demonstrate their qualifications without relying on standardized test results. Remote freshmen applicants undergo a holistic review that considers coursework, professional background, and personal statements.

No minimum SAT or ACT scores are specified for any particular bachelor's program at Herzing University. The admissions process instead prioritizes diverse indicators of potential success, which makes the absence of testing requirements a strategic choice to reduce barriers for nontraditional or underrepresented students seeking online degrees.

Compared with many online institutions that still mandate minimum SAT or ACT scores, Herzing's test-optional policy aligns with a nationwide shift. Over 1,100 U.S. colleges have adopted similar policies, reflecting critiques about the limited predictive value of standardized tests and their impact on equity in admissions, according to recent education research reports.

For instance, an applicant with extensive professional experience but low test scores could succeed at Herzing. Employers increasingly value practical skills over exam results, making Herzing's approach consistent with evolving workforce demands for skill portfolios and applied knowledge rather than standardized metrics.

Does Herzing University require GRE or GMAT scores for online graduate programs?

Herzing University does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission to its online graduate programs. Instead, admissions emphasize undergraduate GPA, relevant professional experience, and other criteria. This approach removes standardized testing barriers that often disadvantage nontraditional students pursuing graduate degrees through distance learning.

The policies can vary slightly between departments, but the general stance favors test waivers. For example, an applicant to a healthcare management program might benefit more from demonstrated work experience than from competitive GRE scores. This flexibility allows students to highlight real-world accomplishments over test results.

Compared to many online graduate schools that still rely on GRE/GMAT scores, Herzing's test-optional model aligns with a national trend where over 60% of U.S. graduate programs have reduced or eliminated these requirements, reflecting a broader shift toward holistic admission practices that value diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

Applicants considering online degrees at Herzing University should focus on strengthening their academic records and professional portfolios instead of investing effort in standardized testing. Prospective students can also explore relevant majors in college to better tailor their applications for workforce outcomes.

Which online programs at Herzing University enforce test-score submission requirements?

Online programs at Herzing University vary significantly in competitiveness, with some requiring standardized test submissions to ensure candidate preparedness and alignment with industry expectations. Higher-stakes fields such as nursing and business administration often demand test scores to meet regulatory or professional benchmarks. These requirements filter applicants beyond academic transcripts, making the admissions process more rigorous and predictive of future workplace success. For example, a candidate applying to the nursing BSN program with insufficient ACT or SAT scores might face barriers despite strong grades, illustrating the practical need to meet standardized thresholds.

The following online programs enforce test-score submission requirements as part of their admissions criteria.

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Requires ACT or SAT scores reflecting the clinical rigor and regulatory demands of nursing credentials. This policy supports program quality and compliance with healthcare standards while also assessing quantitative and reasoning skills crucial for patient care.
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA): Mandates GMAT or equivalent GRE scores to evaluate analytical and verbal reasoning skills expected in managerial roles. Scores typically must exceed 500, aligning with broader business school admission benchmarks that emphasize quantitative aptitude.
  • Associate of Science in Health Information Management: Enforces ACT or SAT submissions to confirm foundational academic skills needed for health data roles. This program balances test requirements with professional experience consideration.

Herzing University's School of Health Sciences sets minimum ACT scores around 18 or SAT composite scores near 930 to uphold academic standards. According to a 2024 study by the National Center for Education Statistics, roughly 61% of U.S. online degree programs have adopted test-optional policies, reflecting a shift toward access and diversity without sacrificing academic rigor. This trend underlines the strategic use of testing in selective programs versus broader test flexibility elsewhere.

Applicants should discuss potential test waivers with admissions counselors, emphasizing competitive undergraduate GPAs or certifications. Navigating these policies carefully can impact admission success and subsequent career positioning. For students evaluating pathways, understanding which programs require test scores at Herzing University is crucial for informed decision-making within competitive enrollment environments. Additional guidance can be drawn from insights into the best 4-year degrees to align educational choices with practical labor market outcomes.

What Graduates Say About Their Admissions Experience at Herzing University

  • Riley: "Going through Herzing University's online program, I quickly realized that the standardized testing requirement introduced some unexpected administrative hurdles. Coordinating with testing agencies to have my official scores sent over felt cumbersome, especially balancing work and study. However, opting for the test waiver based on my GPA simplified things considerably and allowed me to focus more on coursework. Reflecting now, the upfront effort to navigate those admissions nuances was worthwhile, as my degree has definitely opened doors to career advancement in healthcare technology."
  • Sierra: "Studying online at Herzing University was flexible but required careful planning, particularly around the admissions testing process. I initially prepared for the standardized exams, hoping high scores might strengthen my application, but securing official score reports delayed my enrollment timeline more than I anticipated. Switching to the test-optional route, leveraging my academic history, reduced that stress significantly. In the workforce, while the degree gave me credibility, I found that the extra investment in test prep didn't directly translate to faster job placement, though it did enhance my confidence during interviews."
  • Ariana: "As an online student at Herzing University, I valued how the admissions team provided clear guidance on navigating the standardized testing or test waiver options. I chose to submit test scores, so arranging for my official transcripts was a detailed but manageable process that helped me feel more invested in the program. Post-graduation, the degree has been instrumental in securing a promotion, and I appreciate that the initial testing requirements motivated me to approach my studies more rigorously. Yet, I recognize that for some peers, the test-optional policy offered important relief without compromising their career outcomes."

Other Things You Should Know About Herzing University Degrees

Does the absence of GRE or GMAT requirements at Herzing University affect how employers view online graduates?

Herzing University's decision not to require GRE or GMAT scores for most online programs means that admissions focus more on academic history and experience rather than standardized test performance. Employers familiar with these programs often prioritize practical skills and certifications over test scores. However, in highly competitive fields or specialized roles, the lack of standardized test benchmarks may require graduates to demonstrate competencies through portfolios, work experience, or professional certifications to stand out effectively.

How does not requiring standardized test scores impact the academic rigor and workload of online programs at Herzing University?

Without relying on GRE or GMAT scores, Herzing University places greater emphasis on continuous assessment and mastery within the curriculum itself. This setup often translates to a heavier focus on practical assignments, projects, and real-world skills rather than initial test readiness. Prospective students should anticipate a learning experience that requires consistent effort and application of knowledge, which can be more telling of their capability to succeed in professional environments than one-off test results.

If I am applying to multiple online programs, should I prioritize programs with or without test score requirements at Herzing University?

When juggling multiple applications at Herzing University, prioritize programs that align with your strengths and deadlines rather than test score policies alone. Programs without GRE or GMAT requirements simplify the admission process and reduce barriers, but consider how each program's rigor matches your career goals. If a program demands test scores, it may indicate a higher level of academic or professional expectation, which could impact your long-term employability in specific industries.

Is the absence of GRE or GMAT scores at Herzing University affecting the perception of its academic quality by employers?

Employers generally prioritize skills and practical knowledge over standardized test scores when evaluating candidates. Herzing University’s focus on comprehensive curriculum and hands-on experience ensures graduates are equipped with the necessary skills, which might alleviate concerns about academic quality despite the absence of GRE or GMAT requirements in 2027.