Many colleges and universities in the US have become test-optional, meaning that students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. This is a shift that allows applicants to focus on other aspects of their application, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
What Does Test-Optional Mean?
Test-Optional: You can choose whether or not to submit SAT/ACT scores.
Test-Blind: Colleges will not consider SAT/ACT scores even if you submit them.
Test-Flexible: Schools allow students to submit different test scores, e.g., AP or IB tests.
Popular Test-Optional Colleges in 2024
Some of the best colleges no longer require SAT or ACT scores, including:
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- University of Chicago
- New York University (NYU)
- University of California System (Test-Blind)
- Columbia University
- Boston University
- Duke University
Advantages and Disadvantages of Test-Optional Schools
Advantages
✔ Eliminates stress for students who perform poorly on standardized tests.
✔ Puts more emphasis on GPA, essays, and extracurricular activities.
✔ Makes lower test scores achievable to be competitive.
Disadvantages
✘ Most scholarships and honors programs still require test scores.
✘ Good test scores can give students an edge over those that do not report them.
✘ Test-optional policies vary, so students must research each school.\
If your scores are higher than a college’s average, sending them in can increase your chances of getting in. But if your scores are weaker, it’s probably best to fall back on other strengths such as GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.
Final Thoughts
As more colleges go test-optional, applicants have more options in how they apply. Learn about your schools of choice’s policies and determine if sending in SAT/ACT scores will enhance your application!
