Freshmen and transfer students with fewer than 24 hours of transferable college credit must have ACT scores on file and sit for a University-administered writing test prior to registration for classes. ACT scores must be fewer than five years old. If ACT scores are not listed on a student's high school transcript, the student should request that the testing company send them to the Office of Admissions. Students may call ACT at (319) 337-1313 for more information on having scores sent. Students are encouraged to take the ACT at a national test site. Most high school counselors have information concerning national ACT test dates and locations. Missouri State University-West Plains offers a residual ACT, but students should be aware that these residual test results are typically for use only by Missouri State University. Students may contact the Missouri State University-West Plains Student Advisement and Academic Support Center (SAAS) at (417) 255-7222 for more information. Non-degree students only need to fulfill testing requirements when enrolling in courses which have testing prerequisites.

Appeals relating to secondary credentials and ACT testing requirements should be addressed to the Dean of the College or his/her designee. Appeals relating to placement should be addressed to the Student Advisement and Academic Support Center (SAAS).

Some degree programs have specific test requirements. Students should refer to the appropriate degree program information in the university catalog for more information.