Colleges Dropping SAT and ACT Requirements Due to Coronavirus -What Does This Really Mean?

With high school and standardized tests dates (SAT/ACT) disrupted, a growing number of colleges are adopting a Test-Optional Policy for fall 2021 applicants -meaning students will have the ability to indicate whether they would like schools to consider their SAT/ACT scores when they apply.

“Are all test-optional policies the same, and if I opt not to submit my scores will it affect my chances for admissions?” This is the question on every high school Junior’s mind!

Let’s answer the first part of this question, “Are all test-optional policies the same?” No, test-optional policies differ from college to college and some come with restrictions, so it’s important to read and understand the policy for each school you are considering with a test-optional policy. If you are still unclear on the policy after researching a school’s standardized test requirements reach out to someone in the admissions office to ask them directly.

Here are some examples of Test-Optional policies :

• Some schools are test-optional ONLY for in-state applicants and therefore, out-of-state, international students, or applicants for certain majors are still required to submit SAT/ACT scores.

• Some test-optional schools may ask for additional materials: samples of your academic work, additional recommendation letters, and/or a graded research paper, in lieu of submitting your SAT/ACT scores.

• Some test-optional schools may require another supplemental essay, if you elect not to submit your SAT/ACT scores. 

It should also be noted that there are a few different test policies you will come across when reviewing a college’s standardized test policy. There are Test Optional, Test Flexible, and Test Blind policies, and although they sound similar, they are very different.

Test-Optional means it is not mandatory for students to submit their SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. Admissions will look at a student’s grades, course rigor, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurriculars (more closely) in the absence of test scores.

Test-Flexible allows applicants to submit various standardized test scores to support their application. Some may accept AP Exam scores, SAT Subject 2 scores, and/or IB exam scores in lieu of SAT/ACT scores (every school is different, so students need to read the details on their website before submitting.)

Test Blind means students are not required to submit any standardized scores. There are several variations of this policy. Some schools may exempt applicants who have scores above a certain GPA. Some may say they will not consider SAT or ACT scores (regardless of the score), and other schools will actually block any ACT or SAT scores from an applicant’s file so that admissions officers can’t even see them. 

Now, for the second part of the question, “If I opt not to submit my SAT/ACT scores, will it affect my chances for admissions?”

The blanket answer you’ll hear from colleges who have adopted a Test-Optional Policy is “Students will not be disadvantaged in any way if they do not submit SAT or ACT scores.”But, unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Before making your decision whether to submit or not to submit scores, ask yourself these questions:

• Are my SAT or ACT scores an accurate representation of my ability as a student? If the answer is yes, then submit your scores with your application. Colleges are looking for compelling reasons to accept you, so the more information you can provide that reflects/supports your academic profile, the better. 

• Where do my scores fall within the average test scores of this year’s incoming freshman class? If your scores are below the average (reported mid-range) consider applying under the test-optional policy (and don’t submit your scores). 

• Do my grades, course rigor, essays, letters of recommendations, extracurriculars and leadership roles, make me stand out? Before deciding whether or not to submit SAT/ACT scores, realize that your application and other components will be heavily scrutinized by admissions and therefore, must be strong enough to make the college want to admit you!

Please note there are some exceptions to the test-optional policy.

Be sure to check the school’s website to see if you are considered an exception to the rule. 

Here are some examples :

• Applicants who are homeschooled or attend non-graded high schools may be required to submit official ACT or SAT scores.

• Prospective NCAA Division I student-athletes are required to submit SAT/ACT scores to the NCAA Eligibility Center for NCAA initial-eligibility purposes. However, student-athletes may still be able to apply as a test optional applicant.

• International applicants may be required to submit SAT or ACT scores for specific programs, scholarships, and or waive the English Language Proficiency Test score (TOEFL or IELTS)

• Applicants who are applying to highly selective majors or accelerated dual-degree programs and/or Honors Programs may be required to submit SAT/ACT scores.

• Applicants applying for Merit Scholarships may be required to submit SAT/ACT scores as part of a separate application process.  

FairTest - The National Center for Fair and Open Testing updates their list of colleges and universities that are “test-optional, “test flexible” or otherwise de-emphasize the use of standardized tests during the admissions review process. http://fairtest.org/university/optional  Again, there are variations of test-optional, test flexible, and test blind, so it’s important to review each school’s standardized test policy and determine if your application* would benefit from submitting or holding back your ACT/SAT scores.

*Remember, if you opt not to submit ACT/SAT scores, your application including: Grades, Curriculum, Essays, Recommendation Letters, Extracurricular Activities, Leadership Roles, etc. will be heavily scrutinized, so it needs to be strong enough (without ACT/SAT) to make the college want to admit you!

There are three different lists on FairTest:

• Chronology of schools adopting test-optional policies since 2005

• Temporarily Waiving ACT/SAT Scores for Fall Applicants 2021

• 460+ test optional and test flexible schools ranked in the top tiers of their respective categories

Now, if you’ve considered all the above and have made the decision not to submit your ACT or SAT scores at a college with a test-optional policy, you will need to do two things:

1.     Don’t self-report your standardized test scores on your Common Application (it’s not required). If you are applying to other schools who require your ACT or SAT scores, you can still submit them.

2.    Ask your high school counselor if standardized test scores are reported on your official transcript. If they are, ask if they can be removed.

Or, if you want to submit your ACT or SAT scores but your test date was cancelled due to Coronavirus, or maybe you just want to try to improve your score, this is a great time to prep. There are a number of ways to do this, from free online resources and practice exams, to Official SAT and ACT Study Guides, to working with Standardized Test Prep Organizations, or hiring a Private Tutor.

To say the least, this has been a challenging school year for everyone and has left college-bound students and their families with a lot to consider as they approach the college admissions and application process. As you continue to move forward with your college exploration and journey, please know you can reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns with the process….I’m here to help!