Entering Freshmen
Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP)
The Test of Academic Proficiency (formerly the Illinois Basic Skills Test) is a state-wide requirement for all licensure programs. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) adopted a policy to allow an ACT composite score of a 22 on the ACT Plus Writing (with a English/Writing score of 19 or higher for tests taken prior to September 2015 or a Writing score of 16 or higher for tests taken September 2015 or after) to substitute for the TAP/Basic Skills as long as it falls within a specified timeframe. Please visit the ACT/SAT in Lieu of TAP page for more information.
If you are planning on pursuing a teacher licensure program and do not meet the state requirement, it is suggested you repeat the ACT Plus Writing prior to your first semester at Illinois. You also have the option of taking the Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP); however, it is important to note the TAP is more expensive and has a low pass rate.
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions provides additional information on Illinois freshmen admission requirements.