University of St. Andrews

For home-schooled students, the University requires verification of the subjects studied and the level of academic achievement attained. This process is straightforward when applicants have undertaken accredited online courses or examinations administered by an independent organisation with standardised assessment methods.

For students who have been home-schooled entirely independently, or where no external verification is available, the University typically requires standardized test scores (such as the ACT or SAT) for admission. The published test score requirements are an ACT composite score of 28 or an SAT score of 1320\. Additionally, certain programmes may require Advanced Placement (AP) qualifications or equivalent in specific subjects—for example, AP Calculus BC is normally required for entry into Mathematics degrees.

The University currently operates a test-optional policy, and many applicants are admitted on the strength of a robust academic transcript.

Additionally, applicants must provide an academic reference from a teacher or another individual who can attest to their abilities and character. References written by parents or family members will not be accepted.