To test, or not to test? To submit, or not to submit? These are the SAT/ACT questions confronting 11th and 12th graders as they dive into USA college applications.
In the wake of the pandemic and increasing criticism about the fairness of testing, approximately 80% of American undergraduate schools are now test optional – a dramatic increase from 45% in 2019. As a result, students need to carefully assess their individual situation and determine how to strategically utilize their test results. Here are Ivy Options’ insights and recommendations on navigating the process.
Should you test?
Yes, if at all possible, but you must weigh the extent to which it might negatively impact your academics, extracurriculars, and other college application tasks such as essay writing. While many universities don’t require students to submit scores, their admissions officers are still interested in seeing the results, particularly from international students and American citizens living abroad. Test results provide objective, reliable data whereas an overseas schools’ GPA and curriculum can be viewed as more subjective and variable.
Another important reason to test is that some universities, even though they are test optional, require scores to apply for scholarships or honors programs. Additionally, schools like Georgetown, Georgia Tech, and MIT still mandate SAT or ACT results.
Should you submit test scores?
In the highly competitive selection process, submitting strong test scores may boost student's admissions chances because universities have more data to assess. If students do NOT submit test scores, admissions officers will closely examine the rest of their application: GPA, external exams like APs and GCSEs, personal statement, supplemental essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Weaknesses in any of these areas will be more noticeable.
As a general guide, Ivy Options recommends that students apply test optional if their SAT or ACT composite score is below the university’s average score for admitted students. However, each applicant’s profile is unique, and the decision whether to submit test scores should be carefully considered. For example, in situations where students are applying to STEM (science, engineering, economics, mathematics) programs and have a very high Math score, but the Reading score is somewhat lower, they would likely benefit from submitting their scores.
How often should you test and when to stop?
Typically, 11th grade students take the SAT and/or ACT two or three times: first, in the autumn or winter, followed by a second attempt in the early spring. By testing at these times, they establish a benchmark but still have ample time to bring up their scores if required. In a perfect world, students would prepare for the test and achieve their desired results on the first try; however, universities do not hold multiple test dates against applicants. Many accept a “superscore,” meaning they take the best section scores across different test dates. Many also allow “score choice,” which means they permit students to share only their best scores. It is important to familiarize yourself with each university’s policy, or ask your Ivy Options counselor if you are unsure.
For 12th graders, summer and early autumn are their last chance to test, especially if they’re planning to apply Early Action or Early Decision. At this late stage, students should have a realistic college list that factors in their testing history. Another consideration is that if test preparation spills into the autumn, it can impact a student’s ability to write the crucial college admissions essays.
If students have prepared diligently and tested at least twice, but are still scoring 200 points (SAT composite) or 3 points (ACT composite) below their expected score, we advise that they STOP and apply to schools that are test optional. Our research shows that at this point, students most likely have plateaued and rarely improve their scores dramatically. The time is better spent on maximizing their academics and extracurriculars, and writing stellar essays.
Students and parents should be realistic about the pressures and time constraints in the college application journey – and standardized testing is just one component. Ivy Options can work with students to devise customized testing strategies and timelines.