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Application Tips

How can I strengthen my application to Case Western Reserve University?

A strong application helps us understand your academic preparation, interests, accomplishments and potential contributions to the Case Western Reserve University community. While there is no minimum GPA or test score required for admission, the steps below can help you present a more complete picture of who you are as an applicant.

Our admission counselors review each application through a holistic process that considers academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, personal experiences and future goals.

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Opportunities to Enhance Your Application

We understand there may be more you want to share with us than can fit neatly on the Common App or Coalition with Scoir. Though not required as part of their application, some students choose to share additional information that may possibly strengthen their application and help us get to know them better. We welcome you to share such information with us.

ACT/SAT Scores

Case Western Reserve University is test-optional.

Scoring

We “superscore” our students’ test results, which means we take your best scores on each section of the SAT and ACT. If you took a test more than once, you will be evaluated on the highest score you received in each individual section of the exam.

Here’s a look at admitted student statistics for the Class of 2025 (Middle 50%):

  • SAT Total: 1420-1510
  • ACT Composite: 32-35
  • Unweighted GPA: 3.6–4.0
  • Test optional: 42%

Timing

Ordinarily, scores for standardized tests taken in November of your senior year arrive in time for Early Action or Early Decision I deadlines, and scores for tests taken in January arrive in time for Early Decision II or Regular Decision consideration.

To ensure your application can be fully reviewed in time for your chosen decision plan, you should take tests by the following dates:

  • Nov. 30: Early Action, Early Decision I and Pre-Professional Scholars Program applicants
  • Dec. 31: Early Decision II and Regular Decision applicants

Additional Materials

Additional materials can be shared through a form on your applicant portal. You can use this opportunity to share videos, web links, PDFs, documents, photos and more.

Some students use this as an opportunity to add additional context to their application with materials such as:

  • Additional letters of recommendation
  • Resumes
  • Research abstracts
  • ACT writing tests
  • Schoolhouse.world tutor transcripts
  • Predicted IB results
  • AP scores, including 3s or better

Though not all may be eligible for college credit at CWRU, these test scores can still enhance your application. You can send scores directly to us or self-report them via your portal.

Anything you have that can help us know you better and understand the contributions you can make to our campus are welcome and appreciated.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help. Reach out to our team and we can assist in ensuring your application is in the best shape possible.

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