A few years ago, standardized test scores were the golden ticket in college admissions. If a student wanted to attend a top university, they needed impressive SAT or ACT results. But things are changing. With more colleges embracing test-optional policies, the rules of the game have shifted—offering both new opportunities and fresh challenges for students and families navigating the admissions process.
If you’re a parent or student trying to make sense of it all, you’re not alone. Test-optional policies have introduced more flexibility, but they’ve also raised important questions: Should I submit my scores? How can I stand out without them? This guide explores how these policies work, why they’re gaining popularity, and what it means for your college strategy in today’s competitive landscape.
How Test-Optional Admissions Work
What Does “Test-Optional” Actually Mean?
At its core, a test-optional policy allows students to decide whether or not to include SAT or ACT scores with their college applications. Unlike test-required schools (which mandate scores) or test-blind institutions (which ignore them entirely), test-optional schools give applicants the choice.
This shift means that standardized tests are no longer the sole benchmark of academic potential. Instead, colleges are placing increased importance on other components of a student’s application—grades, essays, extracurriculars, and more.
Why Colleges Are Embracing Test-Optional Policies
Several factors have driven this trend:
Equity and access: Not all students have access to test prep services or tutoring, which can lead to uneven playing fields.
Holistic review: Colleges are aiming to assess students more comprehensively—not just through a single test score.
Pandemic impact: COVID-19 disrupted standardized testing, prompting many schools to reconsider long-standing requirements.
As a result, even highly selective universities have joined the test-optional movement, fundamentally altering how students apply.
What Test-Optional Means for Applicants
If You Submit Your Test Scores
Submitting strong scores can still be a big advantage—especially for competitive majors like engineering, business, or STEM-related programs. If your scores are above the school’s average (typically the middle 50% range), sending them can help your application stand out.
If You Don’t Submit Scores
Choosing not to send scores isn’t necessarily a disadvantage—but it does mean every other part of your application must be even stronger. Colleges will place more weight on your GPA, course rigor, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters.
Here are a few tips to help strengthen your application in a test-optional scenario:
Focus on Academic Performance
Colleges want to see consistent performance and intellectual curiosity:
Take advanced courses when available (AP, IB, or honors).
Keep your GPA as high as possible, especially in core subjects.
Build Meaningful Extracurriculars
It’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing a few things well:
Commit to activities over the long term.
Take on leadership roles or projects that connect to your intended major.
Volunteer or engage in community service that aligns with your values.
Write Genuine and Compelling Essays
Your personal statement is one of the few chances to show your personality:
Be authentic—admissions officers can spot essays that try too hard.
Share stories that highlight growth, resilience, or passion.
Avoid cliché topics and focus on what truly makes you different.
Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Letters can carry more weight in a test-optional application:
Ask teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your academic and personal strengths.
Provide them with specific achievements or experiences they can mention.
Consider Optional Interviews
If a school offers interviews, take them:
It’s a chance to showcase your enthusiasm and fit for the school.
Be ready to talk about your goals, interests, and why the school stands out to you.
Should You Submit Your Scores?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your individual profile. Here’s a helpful rule of thumb:
Submit your scores if:
Your SAT/ACT score is above the school’s average.
You’re applying to a program that still emphasizes standardized testing.
Your scores enhance your application.
Skip submitting if:
Your scores fall below the school’s median range.
Your GPA, coursework, and extracurriculars are more impressive.
You didn’t have time or resources to prepare for the test.
It’s important to evaluate this decision carefully. At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we help students analyze their options and make the best call for their situation.
Navigating Admissions Without Test Scores
Test-optional doesn’t mean effort-optional. In fact, it often means students need to put even more thought into shaping their application. If you choose not to submit scores, be sure your application showcases your strengths in other areas.
Here are some strategies we recommend:
Be strategic with your course selection and aim for academic consistency.
Align your activities and experiences with your intended major.
Work with mentors or advisors who can help you refine your essays and application materials.
As more colleges adopt test-optional policies, understanding how to adjust your approach is essential. The good news? With the right strategy, students can thrive in this new admissions landscape—whether they submit scores or not.