Deciding Whether to Submit ACT/SAT Scores to Test-Optional Colleges

Deciding whether to submit ACT/SAT scores to Test Optional colleges can feel overwhelming.

There are several factors to consider, and there are rarely clear-cut answers. You can, however, make educated choices once you understand the main considerations.

Here are some helpful strategies:

• Review the college's test policy on its website for insight into the school's tone about applying test optional

  • Some colleges place little importance on test scores and others have a more "test-preferred" stance.

  • Sometimes colleges will post acceptance rates for students who submitted scores vs those that applied without.

  • Make note of whether the school considers the highest single-sitting score or the superscore (highest subject scores across multiple tests).

    
    

• Discern whether your scores contribute positively to your overall application

  • If your transcript grades and rigor are much higher than your scores, then it may be best to choose not to send scores.

  • Test scores can be a positive addition to your application if your scores are stronger or in line with to your grades and rigor.

    
    

• Look at the college's Common Data Set (CDS), Section C9, for ACT/SAT statistics

  • If your overall scores or subject scores fall below the 25th percentile, consider applying without submitting scores. This is not an exact science, so it's important to look at your scores in context before deciding.

  • Remember that the CDS gives statistics for the entire class, and selective majors may have higher thresholds.

    
    

• Consider honors programs and scholarship application requirements, if relevant, to see if sending scores helps or hinders those applications

If you still feel uncertain, the college's regional admissions rep for your area may be able to provide additional context and advice. For example, some colleges welcome scores below the 25th percentile, while other schools prioritize maintaining higher test score averages.

At Growing2College, we assist students and families with college planning, as well as college application and essay coaching (including guidance on the submission of ACT/SAT scores to specific schools). Request a free 20-min consultation to learn more about how we can be helpful.

Kate Pedigo, M.Ed. NCC is an Independent Educational Consultant and founder of Growing2College. Join us on social media for college planning updates, tips, and resources: Facebook   Instagram   LinkedIn