One important decision to make in the application process is whether or not to include your standardized test scores. As a result of decades of criticism about the fairness of the exams and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, almost 75% of universities in the US and Canada have adopted a “test-optional” policy in evaluating candidate admissions. This means that universities will not require you to submit scores and will consider your application complete without them. It’s also important to consider that for many schools, this is a temporary measure and future application cycles might not be test-optional. However, it’s still natural to wonder, “Why should I prepare for the ACT or SAT to begin with?”
First, it is vital to know that while schools might not require applicants to submit scores, it does not mean they are not interested in seeing them. Test optional allows applicants the freedom to not have to submit scores, but as of October 2021, almost 80% of applicants actually did submit their scores to universities. In a competitive selection process and environment, the data shows that applicants are choosing to submit their scores because they believe it will enhance their ability to be accepted into the school. Thus, universities have more data to evaluate candidates and create a holistic profile of the student and overall incoming class. Another point to consider is that schools have different kinds of test-optional policies and that candidates might need to show test scores to apply for scholarships or honors programs.
Next, if you decide not to submit test scores, the rest of your application will be highly scrutinized. This places a lot more importance on your GPA, external exams like APs and GCSEs, personal statement, supplemental essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Adding another data point, like standardized test scores, provides the admissions committee with more information about you as a candidate. However, if you feel like your test score might hurt your candidacy, then you really need to be confident in the quality of other parts of your application before submitting. These are decisions you can make with your counselor, but you need to consider the full picture before choosing your path.
Finally, your application is all about putting your best foot forward and shining for the admissions committee. Here is where you need to rely upon your counselors’ expertise about your application – if they think your SAT will hurt your chances at a particular university, then it might be an easy decision to not include test scores. However, if you have a borderline score, you really need to trust their judgment about which path to take. Universities understand that test scores are just part of the admissions equation, so consider this and yourself as a candidate holistically before submitting your final application.
Comentarios