The Rise of Test-Optional Policies: How to Optimize Your Application

College admissions have changed dramatically over the past few years, and one of the biggest shifts has been the rise of test-optional policies. If you’re applying to college, you might be wondering: Should I submit my SAT or ACT scores? Will it hurt my chances if I don’t?

You’re not alone! The move away from mandatory standardized testing has left many students questioning the best approach. In this blog, we’ll break down what test-optional really means, when submitting scores helps (or hurts), and how to strengthen your application if you choose not to send them.

What Does Test-Optional Mean for Applicants?

Test-optional means you can submit your SAT or ACT scores, but you don’t have to. Admissions officers will review your application, whether you include test scores or not.

Sounds great, right? Well, it depends. If your test scores are strong, they can enhance your application. But if they’re not where you’d like them to be, test-optional policies give you the freedom to focus on other strengths.

Test-Optional vs. Test-Blind vs. Test-Flexible

Before making a decision, it’s important to understand their differences.

  • Test-Optional: You decide whether to submit test scores. If you don’t, colleges will weigh other factors more heavily.
  • Test-Blind: Even if you submit scores, the college won’t look at them.
  • Test-Flexible: Some schools allow students to submit AP, IB, or other exams instead of the SAT/ACT.

    Make sure to check each school’s specific policy, as they can vary widely!

Why Are Colleges Going Test-Optional?

Colleges have adopted test-optional policies for several reasons:

  1. Equity & Accessibility – Standardized tests don’t always reflect a student’s potential, especially for those who face financial or educational barriers.
  2. COVID-19 Disruptions – Many test centers closed during the pandemic, forcing colleges to rethink their requirements.
  3. Holistic Admissions – Schools want to evaluate students beyond just a single test score, considering GPA, coursework, extracurriculars, and personal qualities.

Should You Submit Your Test Scores?

This is the big question! So, if you’re still torn about whether to submit your test scores, we can help you decide:

  • If your score is strong (above a school’s average), send it. It can boost your chances.
  • If your score is weak or below average, you have two options:
    • Retake the test. Try retaking the tests until you get higher, more competitive scores.
    • If you’ve already attempted the test and your scores remain low, skip it. Focus on your GPA, essays, and activities instead.
  • If a school is test-blind, don’t send scores. They won’t be considered at all.

How to Determine If Your Score Is Competitive

Look up the middle 50% SAT/ACT range for each college on your list.

  • If your score is in the top 25%, submitting it is a good idea.
  • If your score is in the bottom 25%, leaving it out might be smarter.
  • If you’re in the middle, consider retaking the test and strengthen the rest of your application.

When Test Scores Can Strengthen Your Application

There are cases where submitting your SAT/ACT can work in your favor:

  • You have a lower GPA, but a high test score could show your academic ability.
  • You’re applying for STEM or business programs, which often value strong math scores.
  • Your school doesn’t offer many AP, IB, or honors courses, so a good test score can demonstrate college readiness.

How to Build a Strong Application Without Test Scores

If you choose not to submit scores, your GPA, coursework, and extracurriculars become even more important. Here’s how to stand out:

1. Excel in Rigorous Courses

Colleges love to see challenging coursework. If your school offers AP, IB, or honors classes, take them—and do well in them.

2. Write a Killer College Essay

Without test scores, your personal statement carries extra weight. Use it to show who you are beyond grades and numbers. Choose a topic that highlights your personal growth, challenges you’ve overcome, or your passion for learning.

3. Showcase Leadership and Impact

Whether through clubs, sports, community service, or a part-time job, colleges want to see initiative and leadership. Rather than listing every activity you’ve ever done, focus on the ones where you made a real difference.

The Role of Recommendation Letters

Strong letters of recommendation can help fill in any gaps in your application. Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your work ethic, academic abilities, and character.

Give your recommenders plenty of time (at least a month) and provide them with details about your achievements to help them write a strong letter.

Preparing for College Interviews

If a school offers optional interviews, take advantage of them! With test-optional policies, interviews have become a bigger factor in admissions decisions.

How to Make a Strong Impression

  • Be authentic – Don’t just recite your resume; share your passions.
  • Know the school – Research what makes the college unique and why you’re excited to attend.
  • Practice common questions – Be ready to discuss your strengths, goals, and why the school is a good fit for you.

What’s Next for Test-Optional Policies?

As more colleges adopt test-optional policies, you might wonder: Are standardized tests dying out?

While some experts predict they’ll become less relevant, others believe they’ll stick around for competitive scholarships and specialized programs. But still, take note: Admissions are becoming more holistic, and test scores are just one piece of the puzzle.

If you are interested in enrolling your child in our test prep programs, contact us now!

Frequently Asked Questionsasd

  • When did most colleges stop requiring test scores?

    The shift away from mandatory standardized testing accelerated in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Widespread closures of SAT and ACT testing centers left many students unable to take the exams or improve their scores. In response, to ensure fairness in the college admissions process, a majority of schools adopted test-optional policies. This meant that students could choose whether or not to submit their test scores. While a move towards de-emphasizing standardized tests was already underway, the pandemic drastically accelerated this trend. Consequently, numerous colleges have continued to maintain test-optional policies, providing students with increased flexibility in their application strategies.

  • How many colleges in the U.S. don’t require test scores?

    How many colleges in the U.S. don’t require test scores? It’s a substantial number. Nearly 90% of the 2,275 four-year colleges across the United States have adopted policies that mean they either do not require or simply do not consider SAT or ACT scores. This major shift includes test-optional schools, where students have the choice of whether or not to submit their scores as part of their application. It also includes test-blind schools, where any submitted scores are disregarded entirely. This policy change gives students the opportunity to place increased focus and effort on other critical components of their college applications, such as their academic performance, their engagement in extracurricular activities, and the quality of their essays.

  • Do Ivy League schools accept applications without test scores?

    Yes, Ivy League schools are also test-optional, providing applicants the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, the competitive nature of these institutions means that many strong candidates opt to include high test scores to bolster their applications. Consequently, students applying without test scores must distinguish themselves through other means. This involves demonstrating academic excellence with outstanding grades, showcasing leadership experience and impactful extracurricular involvements, and presenting a unique and remarkable personal story. Moreover, powerful essays and compelling recommendations are critical in creating a strong and memorable impression on the admissions committee.

  • How can I make my college application strong without test scores?

    To build a remarkable application for test-optional schools, you need to focus mostly on your grades, especially in rigorous courses like AP or IB classes. Write a personal statement that vividly shares your unique story and passions. Actively engage in activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and enthusiasm, be it clubs, sports, volunteering, or employment. Secure strong recommendation letters from counselors, teachers, or mentors who can attest to your strengths. Showcase any notable special projects, research endeavors, or awards that distinguish you. The aim is to present a holistic view of yourself to colleges, proving your worth beyond just test scores.