Is applying test optional a good idea?

You might choose to apply test-optional if: You want to direct focus to the parts of your application that better showcase your skills and abilities, like a strong GPA, rigorous academic coursework, extracurricular involvement, and a thoughtful essay.

Is there a disadvantage to applying test optional?

Test Scores Might Be Required for Merit Scholarships. Many test-optional colleges look at test scores when awarding merit scholarships, so not submitting them might put you at a disadvantage.

Is it a good idea to go test optional?

If your high school GPA is on the lower side and you elect not to submit test scores, you may lower your chances of an acceptance letter from the admissions office. Con: By not submitting test scores, your GPA is the primary academic indicator.

What are the odds of getting into college test optional?

Yet, only 28% of those accepted did not include standardized test results in their application. At Brown University that same year, 42% of those accepted applied as test-optional applicants. Lastly, 80% of Georgetown's Class of 2026 applicants submitted scores.

Should I apply with or without SAT?

Yes, you can apply to colleges without the SAT. Many colleges no longer require the SAT (at least temporarily). You can get into college with average grades as long as you are careful which colleges you choose. There are lots of sources for finding the average high school grades of college students.

Is Test Optional a Good Idea? (INSIDE INFORMATION!) What happens when you apply test optional

Should I submit test scores if optional?

Even though test-optional colleges maintain that they do not view applications without standardized test scores in a negative light, many admissions experts suggest that submitting SAT/ACT scores can ultimately add value to a student's application.

Is it a disadvantage to not submit SAT?

When a school is test optional, it means you get to decide if you want to submit SAT/ACT scores. If you do submit scores, they'll be reviewed, but if you don't, you won't be penalized and other components of your application will simply be weighted more to take the place of the test scores.

Why are colleges really going test optional?

For many colleges that have gone test-optional over the years, not requiring SAT or ACT scores aims to fulfill the goal of greater access. Well-qualified students who may have been discouraged from applying previously because of their poor test scores might now consider a wider range of schools.

Should I go test optional for SAT?

Alyse Levine of Premium Prep College Counseling adds that it makes sense to take the SAT or the ACT even if you're planning to apply to a test-optional school since "it cannot hurt you." After all, you can always withhold scores that come in lower than you wished, or you can use a high score you receive to bolster your ...

Does test optional affect scholarships?

Even as many colleges extend their test-optional admissions policies another year, the ACT and SAT still can greatly affect merit-based scholarships and college admissions. Test optional really is only for those excited to pay full price.

When should I choose test-optional?

You might choose to apply test-optional if:

You have been unable to take the ACT/SAT for any reason. Your scores do not meet your expectations or effectively demonstrate your abilities and potential. (Maybe you experienced high anxiety during the test or were unable to retake the test and improve your score)

Should I submit a 1200 SAT score?

The average SAT score is a 1040, so a 1200 is above average. A 1200 SAT score is between the 71st and 80th percentile of test takers, meaning that you scored above 71-80% of other students. A score of 1200 opens a wide range of college options, assuming you have comparable grades (mostly A's and B's).

Do test-optional students get in?

Many colleges with test-optional policies still encourage students to submit their scores, but they don't require all students to do so for admission. Students can and should make the decision that will best help their admission chances.

Does test optional hurt my chances?

If the college does not require the test, then generally NO, it will not hurt your application. But know that without test scores other parts of your application will become more important.

What are the disadvantages of SAT optional?

It May Cost You Merit Aid

While many colleges have reduced the value standardized tests have on college admissions, they still play a prominent role in how many colleges award merit aid. By not submitting test scores, you may disqualify yourself from receiving merit aid or limit your opportunity to win a scholarship.

Is 1150 a good SAT score?

The average national SAT score is between 1050 and 1100 every year (on purpose), putting an 1150 at an above-average 67th percentile — that's a score to be proud of! It means that you scored higher than 67% of all other test takers.

What percentage of students go test optional?

More than 80 percent of U.S. colleges and universities do not require applicants to take standardized tests like the SAT or the ACT.

What is the truth about test optional?

Colleges experience at least two changes when they go test optional: average test scores rise and admission rates decrease. Average test scores rise because students who are lower-scoring do not report their scores, so the overall average rises for the incoming class.

Is 1350 a good SAT score?

In 2019, the average SAT score was 1050. Any score above that would be above average and perfectly acceptable for many colleges. A score of 1350 would put you in the top 10% of test takers and help make your application competitive at more selective schools.

Should I submit an 1100 SAT score?

Earning an 1100 makes you eligible to apply to most colleges and universities as a decent candidate. More selective and elite institutions require higher scores for competitive consideration, but outside of those a score of 1100 meets (and 8% exceeds!) expectations.

Are top schools really test optional?

Yes, it is possible for international students to get into top universities without submitting standardized test scores. In recent years, a growing number of universities have adopted test-optional policies, meaning that they do not require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.

Do colleges prefer ACT or SAT?

This is a common misconception. Colleges don't have a preference between the SAT or ACT so it's important to know how to choose the test that's right for you. Both tests are widely accepted across U.S. colleges—including those that are test optional.

Is 800 a good SAT score?

With scores ranging from 400 to 1600 and more than 1.7 million students nationwide taking the SAT each year, the average score range is between 1000-1100. A score of 800 falls significantly below that national average and is about the 8th percentile of all test takers, which means that 92% received a higher score.

Is a 900 a good SAT score?

Is 900 a good SAT score? A “good” SAT score is one that makes you a competitive candidate at a majority of colleges, including your ideal college. A 900 doesn't give you as many college options as we'd normally like students to have, so raising your score closer to that national average (1150-1100) is encouraged.

Is 1300 a bad SAT score?

A 1300 SAT score puts you at the 87th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 87% of all other test takers.