This is a question that many students and families likely have.  The latest rulings have made it so that colleges and universities fall into one of three categories.  The first group has decided that submitting the ACT or SAT as part of the application process is optional.  This blog will address, in detail, why it may be a good idea to take the test/s in this case.  The second group is often referred to as “test blind” – these schools will not consider, or accept, the entrance exams from incoming applicants.  For the final group of colleges, taking either the SAT or ACT is still required as part of the application process.

Test Optional

The majority of the nation’s colleges and universities fall into this category, approximately 60% of them.  If one is considering applying to colleges that fall into the test optional category, it is likely in the student’s best interest to take the ACT or SAT.  One argument for taking the ACT or SAT is that students with similar applications may submit high SAT/ACT scores, hence would fare better than those who don’t submit test scores.  In the case that the student scores poorly, they can still opt to not submit their score when applying.  If a student is undecided, or hesitant, in regards to taking one of the actual tests, taking some sort of practice test could help determine how they might do.

What are the benefits if the SAT or ACT isn’t required?

• To be considered for some scholarships, SAT or ACT scores are required as part of applying
• The amount of financial aid awarded can potentially increase since colleges often use the scores when awarding merit scholarships
• If you’re a good test-taker, these tests could boost your application
• Report card grades and extracurriculars would not bear all the weight

Opting out

If a student chooses to not submit test scores in the case where it’s optional, the rest of the application is weighted more heavily.  This could be okay if they’re confident in all other aspects, like strong grades or if they’re on a sports team, an academic club etc.  This article gives some great ideas of activities that can help boost your application:  10 Activities to Boost Your College Application.

Test Blind

A smaller number of colleges and universities fall into this category, however, California schools have been impacted the most.  Ruled as of late 2020, colleges that have been included in the test blind group include all UC and Cal State Universities, as well as CalTech.  That is, they will not consider, or even accept, the SAT or ACT as part of the application process for fall 2021 through fall of 2024.  It was determined that not all students have easy-enough access to taking the tests, emphasized more so by Covid restrictions.  Secondly, it was felt that socioeconomic status could play a role in who scores highest on the tests.  

Applying to these colleges will feel like a relief to some students, but perhaps a missed opportunity to shine for others – those that are either good at test-taking or hoped to redeem lower grades received.  Extra curricular activities and volunteering are great ways to supplement students’ applications for these schools.

Required

The smallest percent of colleges fall into this category, but be sure to not miss the tests if the school of your dreams, or even your second choice school, is one of them.  A schedule of SAT/ACT test dates can be found here for those entering college in the Fall of 2021.  In addition to some colleges still requiring the ACT or SAT, some high schools require students to take these tests.