Since 2020, more colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, giving students the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores. While skipping standardized tests can sound appealing, submitting strong scores can still give your application a competitive edge, especially at selective schools.

Why submit SAT or ACT scores?


First: 

Strong test scores demonstrate academic readiness in a way grades alone cannot. Admissions officers see them as objective evidence of your skills, particularly useful if your school has grade inflation, less rigorous grading, or if you want to show mastery in math, reading, or science.

Second

Many universities still use SAT or ACT scores for merit scholarships. Even test-optional schools may require them for certain awards. By sending your scores, you may qualify for additional financial aid that you wouldn’t receive otherwise.

Third

Test scores can strengthen your application if your GPA isn’t as high as you’d like. A strong SAT or ACT score can balance a slightly lower GPA and prove you have the skills to succeed in a challenging college environment. For international students, standardized test results can help admissions teams compare applicants from different educational systems.

The bottom line:

Test-optional does not mean test-blind. At Blue Ivy Coaching, we help students evaluate their SAT and ACT results, compare them with the middle 50% ranges of target schools, and make an informed decision. If your scores are at or above a school’s average, sending them can increase your chances of admission and scholarships.

Book a consultation with Blue Ivy Coaching to discover whether submitting your SAT or ACT scores will help you stand out.