Standardized Testing & Admissions: To Include Or Not To Include

These days, the choice of whether to include your standardized testing scores is a pivotal one. Test-optional policies are now the norm at more than 1,900 colleges and universities (and more than 80 are test-free), so understanding how to make the decision to submit or not submit scores is important for virtually all college applicants.

Let’s explore some of the key considerations when it comes to choosing whether and where to send your SAT or ACT scores.

Pros of Going Test-Optional

• Stress Reduction: Opting for test-optional admissions can alleviate the anxiety often associated with standardized tests.

• Showcasing Your Strengths: Without the pressure of test scores, you can direct the spotlight onto other aspects of your application, such as your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.

• Equity in Admissions: Some experts and research indicate that test-optional policies promote fairness by ensuring that students without access to test prep resources aren’t disadvantaged in the process.

Cons of Going Test-Optional

• Merit Aid: Some institutions may use test scores to award merit-based scholarships, so not submitting scores could limit your eligibility for financial aid.

• Transparency: While the majority of colleges have become test-optional, the letter of their policy may not always align perfectly with the spirit of their stance on standardized tests. In other words, even with an official test-optional policy, some schools may advantage students who apply with scores.

• Limiting Options: There aren’t a lot of colleges that officially require test scores, but there are some, so not having scores to submit automatically removes those options.

Making the Decision to Submit Standardized Testing Scores

(see our Test Score Flow Chart for further assistance)

• Comparing Your Scores: Examine whether your SAT or ACT scores fall below, within, or above the median 50th percentile range for the college’s testing profile.

• High School Median Scores: Evaluate whether your scores are below, within, or above the median 50th percentile range for your high school’s graduating class. If this information is available, it can offer valuable context.

• Emphasizing Grades: Assess whether your academic grades make a stronger impression than your test scores. Sometimes, excellent grades overshadow average scores.

• Analyze Sub-Scores: Consider whether your sub-scores demonstrate strengths in areas aligned with your intended academic pursuits in college. Highlighting relevant strengths can be advantageous.

• Special Circumstances: If you’re in a special group (e.g., recruited athlete, legacy applicant), and the college provides explicit guidance on test scores, factor this into your decision.

• Score Reporting Rate: Investigate the college’s score reporting rate, which indicates the percentage of enrolled students who applied with test scores. This statistic can provide insights into the college’s testing preferences.

At Moxie College Counseling, we specialize in navigating the complexities of the college admissions process, including decisions about standardized testing. We’re here to assist you in making an informed decision about your testing plan and decisions about submitting test scores.

Remember, your college journey is as unique as you are – the test-optional landscape isn’t one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to tailor your approach to your individual circumstances and goals. This takes careful consideration. If you have questions or need personalized advice on whether to include test scores in your college applications, reach out to us.

Contact Moxie College Counseling today, and together, we’ll carve out your path to success.