Is test optional beneficial?

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 applying test optional a good idea?

The shift to test-optional admissions may be permanent at some colleges and temporary at others. If you are not a great test-taker or think your test scores don't accurately reflect your abilities as a student, you might consider applying to test-optional schools.

What are the downsides of going test 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.

What are the benefits of test optional colleges?

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 apply test optional to Harvard?

Students who do not submit standardized test scores will not be disadvantaged in their application process. Please visit the College Board FAQs for more information.

Test Optional: Who Does it Hurt?

Are Ivy League schools really test optional?

Many schools, like Harvard University, have committed to staying test-optional for the next few years. Some schools, like those in the University of California system, have even committed to remain test-blind for the foreseeable future, while Columbia University has implemented a permanent test-optional policy.

Is Yale truly test optional?

Yes. Yale is still “test optional”. When you are unable to submit a high score typical of Yale's incoming class, however, you will need an equally impressive accomplishment or achievement in order to stay a competitive candidate.

Does applying test-optional affect your chances?

Does applying test-optional hurt your chances? Test-optional colleges do not penalize applicants who choose not to submit test scores. If you forgo standardized tests, we recommend enhancing your application with other information that showcases your strengths and achievements.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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 ...

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.

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.

Should I go test optional with a 33?

If you're quite close (33 on the ACT or 1460-1470 on the SAT) you can consider submitting your scores. However, are you considerably BELOW that middle score range? Then your score is probably not going to help your case. Take the college up on its offer to consider your application without a test score.

What GPA is required for Yale?

What GPA is required for Yale? Applicants' GPA when applying to Yale should ideally be close to a 4.0 to be strong candidates. Having less than this will require compensating by having outstanding extracurricular activities and an exceptional personal statement.

Should I submit a 33 ACT to Yale?

Average ACT: 34

The 25th percentile ACT score is 33, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 35. Even though Yale likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 33 or below, you'll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application.

Is 1500 good enough for Ivy League?

A 1500 SAT score is incredibly competitive and makes you eligible for admission into all colleges — even the most competitive ones, the Ivy Leagues. Included in the institutions you can apply to are the University of Chicago, Columbia University in the City of New York, and Duke University.

Should I submit a 1500 SAT to Yale?

Yale SAT Score Analysis

There's no absolute SAT requirement at Yale, but they really want to see at least a 1470 to have a chance at being considered.

Can I get into an Ivy with a 1500?

Most Ivy League colleges want to see a composite SAT score of 1500-1600 and a composite ACT score of no lower than 33.

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.

Should I apply test optional to Princeton?

Students who opt to apply to Princeton without an ACT or SAT score will not be at a disadvantage in our process. Standardized testing is only one element of our comprehensive and holistic application review.