Apr 07, 2014 11:17 AM EDT By Jaleesa Baulkman, UniversityHerald Reporter

Emmanuel College in Boston, Mass., announced that it will no longer require the SAT or ACT scores of applicants for admission, Inside Higher Ed reported.

Beginning with the class entering Emmanuel College in fall of 2015, students applying for admission will not be required to submit standardized test scores.

For several years, school officials have been evaluating the admission process to determine the best predictors for student academic success. They determined that standardized test scores are not the best indicator of academic success in college.

"This test-optional policy reinforces the college's commitment to understand a student's overall academic experience, regardless of performance on a single test," school officials said in a news release. "In addition, it encourages all students who have achieved success in high school to consider Emmanuel."

Based on national research, and on discussions with faculty, administrators, secondary school guidance counselors and students, Emmanuel College decided to move to test-optional admission.

"We believe students should present the fullest picture of their academic and intellectual accomplishments when applying for admission to Emmanuel College," the university said. "If a student believes his/her standardized test scores will be valuable supportive information during the review process then the results might be submitted. "

School officials said students who feel their high school record alone is a better indicator of their academic achievement and ability may choose to exclude their test scores from their application without any penalty.

The evaluation of prospective students considers a range of factors that reflect an individual's academic record. They examine the strength of the high school, the rigor of the curriculum, grades, teacher and counselor recommendations and extracurricular activities.

School officials said the admission application review process will not change significantly.

Emmanuel College joins 800 other colleges and universities nationwide, including Hampshire College and Longy School of Music in Massachusetts, that deemphasize standardized testing on the admission process. 

See Now: Covert Team Inside Newsweek Revealed as Key Players in False Human Trafficking Lawsuit