Best Online Colleges with No SAT or ACT Scores Requirement for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from attending an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

You should expect a challenging and rigorous academic experience. A college's decision to go test-optional is about broadening how they measure potential, not about lowering their standards. The curriculum at the best online colleges no SAT or ACT 2025 is just as demanding as an on-campus program, and often taught by the same expert faculty.

You can also expect a learning environment designed specifically for online students. This means you’ll use interactive digital tools, work on collaborative projects with classmates from all over, and have access to dedicated support services. Things like virtual academic advising, online tutoring, and career counseling are key signs of a quality program that is invested in your success.

Where can I work with a degree from an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

You can work in any field you choose. When it comes to hiring, employers care about two things: the quality of your college, which is proven by its accreditation, and the skills you learned in your degree program. Your college’s SAT or ACT policy is not a factor in their decision.

Graduates from accredited, test-optional online colleges are hired every day in major industries like technology, business, healthcare, and education. The name on your diploma and the official accreditation behind it are what open doors to your career.

How much can I make with a degree from an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

Your earning potential is tied to your degree, not your college's admissions process. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for someone with a bachelor's degree is over $92,000. This is significantly higher than wages for those with only a high school diploma.

Furthermore, the job market for college graduates is projected to grow, with nearly 2.4 million new jobs expected for bachelor's degree holders over the next decade. Earning this degree is a direct investment in your financial future.

Popular College Degrees Worth Considering in 2025

1. Business Administration

A business administration degree provides versatile skills in management, finance, and operations. It’s one of the most popular choices for students seeking leadership roles across industries.

2. Psychology

Psychology degrees explore human behavior, research, and mental processes. They prepare students for careers in counseling, research, and organizational development.

3. Counseling

Counseling programs train students to support individuals and communities with mental health and personal challenges. They often lead to careers in clinical settings, schools, or community organizations.

4. Nursing

Nursing degrees prepare students for essential roles in healthcare, blending clinical expertise with patient-centered care. This field offers strong job security and diverse career paths.

5. Social Work

Social work degrees focus on advocacy, community engagement, and direct service to individuals in need. Graduates often pursue roles in healthcare, education, and social service agencies.

List of the Best Online Colleges with No SAT or ACT Scores Requirement for 2025

If you’re considering a degree but don’t want standardized test scores to hold you back, online education can be the answer. Many institutions are expanding access to students with flexible admissions policies, including online colleges that start weekly, which allow learners to begin their programs without waiting months for a new semester to open. This flexibility, combined with test-optional policies, makes higher education more accessible than ever.

1. Charter Oak State College

Charter Oak State College provides flexible online pathways for adult learners to complete degrees in high-demand fields like business, healthcare, and public safety. The college specializes in maximizing transfer credits from other institutions, military training, and professional certifications to accelerate degree completion.

• Program Length: Varies by transfer credits
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $329
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Empire State University (SUNY Empire)

Empire State University offers individualized online programs designed to build on students' personal and professional experiences. As SUNY's leading online university, it emphasizes one-on-one mentoring and provides significant credit for prior learning to help students achieve their goals.

• Program Length: Varies by transfer credits
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $295 (in-state); $353 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Excelsior University

Excelsior University is a not-for-profit online institution dedicated to providing accessible educational opportunities for adult learners. It offers a wide range of career-focused programs and is known for its generous acceptance of transfer credits from academic, professional, and military experience.

• Program Length: Varies by transfer credits
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $510
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

4. Franklin University

Franklin University is a private, nonprofit university specializing in educating working adults through a fully online and flexible format. The university offers a generous transfer credit policy and a broad portfolio of career-relevant bachelor's degrees designed for immediate workplace application.

• Program Length: Varies by transfer credits
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $398
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Montana State University Billings

Montana State University Billings provides a transformative education with a supportive, close-knit community feel and small online class sizes. As a public university, it combines affordable tuition with over 100 academic programs that emphasize hands-on learning through internships and research.

• Program Length: ~4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $592
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

6. University of Massachusetts Global

University of Massachusetts Global is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to serving adult learners with flexible and fully online programs. It is known for its attentive student support and accommodating transfer policies, helping nontraditional students balance their education with busy lives.

• Program Length: Varies by program
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $500
• Accreditation: WSCUC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

7. University of Texas at El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso is America's leading Hispanic-serving research university, offering nearly 170 degree programs with a very low out-of-pocket cost. It provides extensive opportunities for internships and research in fields like aerospace, cancer, and cybersecurity.

• Program Length: ~4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: ~$420-$540
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. National University

National University pioneers a "Whole Human Education" approach, providing holistic academic, financial, and wellness support for working professionals. It offers over 150 career-focused programs in an accessible online format with accelerated four- and eight-week courses.

• Program Length: Varies by program
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $370
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How long does it take to complete a degree program at an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

A bachelor’s degree is designed to be completed in four years of full-time study. However, one of the biggest advantages of an online format is its flexibility, so the actual time it takes can vary quite a bit based on your needs.

Many programs are built for working adults, offering part-time options that allow you to take fewer classes per semester. This extends the time to graduation but makes balancing school with a job and family much more manageable.

Accelerated Pathways and Program Structures

On the other hand, some schools offer accelerated terms or competency-based programs that can shorten your time to completion. You might find some of the shortest online elementary education programs that allow you to finish faster by leveraging transfer credits or previous experience. It’s also very common for students to take a bit longer. As you can see in the data below, many factors can influence your graduation timeline.

How does an online program at a test-optional or test-free college compare to an on-campus program?

When a program is properly accredited, its online version is academically equivalent to the on-campus one. You’ll study the same curriculum, learn from the same expert faculty, and earn the same respected degree. The diploma you receive will not say "online" on it, and many schools are even part of the complete list of test-optional colleges for 2025.

The main differences are in the delivery and the experience. Online learning offers more flexibility in your schedule, while on-campus programs provide a more traditional, structured environment. The choice between them is about finding the right fit for your life and learning style.

The Rise of Online Learning

Online education has become a mainstream and respected path in higher education. With over 9.4 million students enrolled in online courses, universities have invested heavily in technology to create engaging and collaborative virtual classrooms. Choosing one of the best online colleges no SAT or ACT 2025 can also help you develop valuable real-world skills in digital communication, time management, and self-discipline—all of which are highly sought after by employers in today's workforce.

Students also benefit from programs designed with accessibility in mind, similar to what colleges have low GPA requirements, which broaden opportunities for applicants who may not meet traditional admissions standards.

What is the average cost of attending an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

Based on the schools in our ranked list, the average cost is about $450 per credit, with an average total tuition of around $54,000 for a full bachelor's degree. It's important to see these numbers as a representative sample, as costs can vary widely from one institution to another, especially between public and private universities.

How Costs Compare

While tuition is a key factor, the total cost of attendance is where online programs offer significant savings. You eliminate major expenses like on-campus housing, meal plans, and daily commuting costs. When you consider that the average total cost for a four-year, in-person public college can exceed $100,000, the financial benefit of an online degree becomes very clear.

For many career paths, this affordability is crucial, especially when compared with other degrees that can be more specialized and expensive—like those in healthcare or technology such as masters in cyber security jobs salary, where tuition may be higher but long-term income potential also rises.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

You have access to the same financial aid options as students attending on-campus programs. As long as your online college is accredited, you are eligible for federal and state aid. The first and most important step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

This form determines your eligibility for federal Pell Grants (which don't need to be repaid), low-interest federal student loans, and work-study programs. Many schools also use the FAFSA to award their own institutional scholarships and grants.

The Reality of Student Debt

Beyond federal aid, you should always look for scholarships from your specific college or external organizations. Every dollar you get in grant or scholarship money is a dollar you don't have to borrow. With the average student debt load being a significant concern for graduates, taking the time to apply for financial aid is a critical step in making your degree more affordable, as the data below illustrates.

For students exploring different career paths, even niche fields—such as animal-related programs where you may wonder about the working with animals degree needed—financial aid remains one of the most powerful tools to reduce long-term costs.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online college with no SAT or ACT requirement?

The main prerequisite for any bachelor's degree program is a high school diploma or a GED. That is the essential starting point.

However, it's a mistake to think that because a school is test-optional, your academic record doesn't matter. In fact, without a test score to consider, admissions committees will look even more closely at the other parts of your application to assess your readiness for college-level work.

What 'Holistic Review' Really Means

In a holistic review process, your high school transcript becomes the most important document. Admissions officers will analyze your overall GPA, the difficulty of the courses you took (like AP or honors classes), and your grade trends over time. They want to see that you challenged yourself and improved.

Beyond your transcript, they will also carefully evaluate your application essay, letters of recommendation, and any extracurricular activities that show your passion and commitment.

What courses are typically offered at online colleges with no SAT or ACT requirement?

The coursework in an accredited online bachelor's program is designed to give you both a broad educational foundation and deep expertise in your chosen field. Your curriculum will be a structured mix of the following types of courses.

• General Education Courses: These classes cover core subjects like English, math, history, and science to ensure you develop well-rounded critical thinking and communication skills.
• Major Core Courses: These are the required, non-negotiable classes that provide the fundamental knowledge for your specific degree program.
• Major Electives: These are specialized courses within your field that allow you to tailor your degree to your specific career interests.

Together, these courses create a comprehensive learning path. A program like the fastest online bachelor's in early childhood education, for instance, will combine foundational liberal arts courses with very specific classes on child development and curriculum planning. All the best online colleges no SAT or ACT 2025 will provide a clear and structured curriculum for you to follow.

What degree programs are typically available at online colleges with no SAT or ACT requirement?

You can find a huge variety of bachelor's degree programs offered online by test-optional colleges, covering nearly every major industry and career path. The options are no longer limited and now include many high-demand, technical, and creative fields.

• Business and Management: This includes popular degrees like business administration, marketing, accounting, and human resources management.
• Healthcare and Nursing: These programs range from healthcare administration and health sciences to RN-to-BSN completion programs for registered nurses.
• Technology and Computer Science: You can find degrees in high-growth areas like information technology, cybersecurity, software development, and data analytics.
• Social Sciences and Liberal Arts: This broad category includes degrees in psychology, criminal justice, communications, and liberal studies.

It's a common misconception that you can only get certain types of degrees online. Today, even highly specialized and creative fields are accessible, with some of the fastest online game art and design degree programs being offered by top accredited universities. As the data shows, earning a bachelor's degree in any of these fields is a proven pathway to higher earning potential.

How to Choose the Best Online College with No SAT or ACT Requirement

When you're choosing a program, there is one factor that is more important than all the others: accreditation. Accreditation means that an independent agency has rigorously reviewed and approved the college for its academic standards, faculty, and student outcomes. You should look for regional accreditation, which is the most respected standard.

After you've confirmed a school is accredited, you can look at other factors that are a good fit for you. Consider whether the program's curriculum aligns with your career goals, look into the qualifications of the faculty, and check the quality of the student support services, like career counseling and tech support.

Looking Beyond the Brochure

Go beyond the marketing materials and look for hard data. Many of the best online colleges no SAT or ACT 2025 will publish their graduation rates, job placement statistics for graduates, and even average starting salaries for their alumni. This information gives you a much clearer picture of the real-world value of the degree.

What career paths are available for graduates of online colleges?

Your career paths are determined by your major, not by your college's admissions policy. An accredited degree is a respected credential that opens doors across every industry. Here are just a few examples of where a bachelor's degree can take you.

• Business and Finance: Pursue roles as a project manager, marketing specialist, financial analyst, or human resources manager.
• Technology: Prepare for in-demand jobs as a cybersecurity analyst, software developer, IT project manager, or data analyst.
• Healthcare: Open doors to non-clinical roles like medical services manager, healthcare administrator, or health informatics specialist.
• Education: Build a foundation for a career as a teacher, curriculum developer, or instructional coordinator.

A bachelor's degree is also the essential foundation for pursuing graduate studies. Many graduates find their online degree is the perfect stepping stone to advanced credentials, including some of the fastest online master's in gifted education programs.

What is the job market for graduates of online college graduates?

The job market for college graduates is strong and projected to continue growing. Holding a bachelor's degree gives you a significant competitive advantage, qualifying you for more jobs and providing a clear path to higher lifetime earnings. Employers are actively seeking candidates with the skills and knowledge that earning a college degree demonstrates.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects nearly 2.4 million new jobs for bachelor's degree holders over the next decade, with median weekly earnings for graduates reaching over $1,700. As technology evolves, fields like a fastest online master's degree education technology will be in particularly high demand, making your degree a powerful asset for long-term career stability and success.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online Colleges with No SAT or ACT Scores Requirement

Other Things You Should Know About Online Colleges with No SAT or ACT Scores Requirement

Can I transfer credits to an online college that is test-optional?

Yes, nearly all accredited online colleges that are test-optional accept transfer credits from other institutions. To do this, you will need to submit your official transcripts from any previous colleges for a formal evaluation. Transferring credits is an excellent strategy to reduce the number of courses you need to take, which can save you significant time and money on your degree.

What is the difference between regional and national accreditation?

Regional accreditation is generally considered the gold standard for academic institutions like four-year colleges and universities. Credits from regionally accredited schools are widely accepted for transfer and are often a prerequisite for admission to graduate programs. National accreditation is also a valid form of review, but it is more commonly associated with career, vocational, or trade schools.

If a college is test-optional, should I still submit my SAT or ACT scores?

You should only submit your test scores if you believe they will strengthen your application. A good rule of thumb is to check the college's average score range for admitted students. If your scores fall within or above that range, submitting them can be beneficial. If your scores are below the average or do not accurately reflect your academic abilities, it is better not to send them.

What are the technology requirements for an online degree program?

Most online degree programs require a reliable computer purchased within the last few years that has a webcam and microphone. You will also need a stable, high-speed internet connection that can handle streaming video for lectures and virtual class meetings. Some specific majors, like graphic design or computer science, may have additional requirements for more powerful computers or specialized software.