Rollins College belongs to an exclusive group of highly selective collegesthat offer candidates the opportunity to be considered for admission without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Each year, approximately 15% of the applicant pool selects TSWO. Candidates selecting this option must submit a teacher recommendation and personal representation of their strengths, talents, or interests.

TSWO Questions and Answers

Q: How do I know if I should select TSWO?

A: TSWO is designed for students who perform well in the classroom but who do not take  standardized tests as well. We recommend the test score waived option for students who fit the profile described below:

• A-/B+ GPA

• Lower than 1100 on the SAT (Critical Reading and Math ONLY)

• Lower than 23 on the ACT

Q: Can I be homeschooled and apply TSWO?

A: Students who are homeschooled are required to submit their SAT or ACT scores to Rollins in order to be considered for admission.  Therefore, TSWO is not an option for students who are homeschooled. 

Q: How is a TSWO applicant evaluated during the admission process compared to a Test Score applicant?

A: Students applying TSWO are evaluated similarly to those who apply using their test scores.  TSWO applicants are not at any disadvantage compared to Test Score applicants. 

Q: What are you looking for in a personal representation?

A: A good representation is one that demonstrates time and care in its development and says something important about the candidate. In the past, we have received YouTube videos, DVDs or slide shows of their athletic or artistic talents; power points or scrapbooks of their backgrounds, interests or accomplishments; music or poetry they composed. Beyond the thought and care behind the effort, outstanding representations are just that--they stand out. It is very important that your representation is prepared specifically for your Rollins admission application and is not something you used for another purpose. 

Q: What are you looking for in a teacher recommendation?

A: The teacher recommendation helps us to evaluate your performance in the classroom. The recommendation must be from a teacher during your junior or senior year and from a core academic course (Math, English, Social Sciences, Foreign Language or Science).

Q: If I apply through TSWO, am I eligible for financial aid?

A: Yes, you can still apply for need-based financial aid.  However, you will not be eligible for academic-based scholarships.

Q: Why shouldn't I select TSWO?

A: TSWO applicants are not eligible for academic scholarships, the 3/2 Accelerated Management Program, or for the Honors Degree Program. These awards and programs are reserved for applicants with excellent performance in the classroom as well as SAT scores higher than a 1200 and ACT scores higher than a 27. 

Q: Can I submit my test scores and a personal representation?

A: If you choose to apply to Rollins using your test scores but would also like to submit an additional  representation, you are free to do so.  However, we will base our decision primarily on your test scores while the representation would be regarded as supplemental information. 

Q: Can I ask for my representation back after the application process?

A: We will not return your representation after it is submitted.

Q: How do I let the Admission Office know that I would like to apply using TSWO?

A: On your Rollins application there is a question that asks if you would like to apply TSWO.  If you would, check the “yes” box.  If you are applying through the Common Application, this will be found on the Rollins supplement form.

Q: What if I already submitted my test scores but I now want to apply TSWO?

A: We will automatically erase your test scores from our files if you choose to apply TSWO on your application. 

Q: Can I change my mind?

A: If you have already applied to Rollins and would like to change to either the test score waived option or to the test score option, please contact your admission counselor.  As long as the application deadline hasn’t passed, and you are able to quickly provide us with the supplemental information, we will be able to make the change.  If the deadline has passed, speak with your admission counselor. Click here to locate your counselor.