Understanding College Policies for Standardized Test Scores: A Guide for Students

Navigating the world of college admissions can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how SAT and ACT scores are evaluated by different institutions. College policies on test scores have evolved significantly in recent years, with many schools adopting more flexible approaches. Here’s a breakdown of the most common test score policies, so you can make informed decisions as you apply to college.

1. Test-Optional Policies

Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning that students can choose whether or not to submit their SAT or ACT scores. Schools with this policy typically evaluate applications by placing more emphasis on other factors such as rigor of coursework, GPA, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation.

• Who should consider submitting scores? If your test scores are above the college’s average range or showcase your academic strengths, submitting them can be an advantage. If your scores don’t reflect your abilities or align with the rest of your application, it may be better to leave them out. Just make sure you consider all the implications of sending your test scores as part of your application.
  • In some cases, it can still make sense to submit your scores even if they are below a school’s published average scores. This can be true for several reasons. At top schools a score below the 50th percentile can often still be very good (ie. Penn’s average ACT is 34 – 35) and admissions still know that a 33 is a very good score. Or, if your score is below a college’s average, but is one of the best scores in your high school or school district, that is very helpful context. 
• Why do schools adopt this policy? Test-optional policies aim to create a more equitable admissions process, recognizing that standardized test scores may not always capture a student’s full potential or account for socioeconomic factors.

2. Test-Blind (Score-Free) Policies

In contrast to test-optional, test-blind (or score-free) schools do not consider standardized test scores at all, even if students choose to submit them. This policy emphasizes other aspects of an application, such as academic rigor, leadership, and community involvement.

• Who benefits from this policy? Students who excel in non-test areas but may not perform well on standardized exams. These policies level the playing field for applicants, especially those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Why do schools adopt this policy? Schools with test-blind policies believe that test scores can sometimes be a barrier to access for marginalized students and that a student’s high school performance is a better predictor of college success.

3. Test-Required Policies

Some schools still maintain test-required policies, meaning that SAT or ACT scores must be submitted as part of the application process. In these cases, test scores are one of many factors considered in admissions decisions.

• Who should focus on these schools? Students who perform well on standardized tests and feel that their scores will strengthen their application. For those applying to schools that require tests, preparing thoroughly for the SAT or ACT is crucial.
• Why do schools adopt this policy? These institutions often believe that standardized tests provide a useful benchmark for assessing academic readiness and comparing students from different educational backgrounds.

4. Superscoring and Score Choice

Beyond whether or not schools require test scores, some colleges also have specific policies regarding how they use the scores you submit.

• Superscoring: Many schools practice superscoring, where they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates and combine them to create your best possible composite score. For example, if you scored higher on math in one test sitting and higher on reading in another, the college will consider your highest scores from each section.
• Score Choice: Score Choice policies allow you to choose which test scores to send to colleges, so you can submit only your best results. Not all schools allow this; some require you to submit all scores from every test sitting.
• Who benefits from these policies? Students who improve their scores over multiple test attempts can benefit significantly from superscoring. Score Choice can reduce pressure by allowing students to send only the scores from their best performances on the test.

5. Test-Flexible Policies

A small but growing number of schools have adopted test-flexible policies. This means that while they may prefer SAT or ACT scores, they allow students to submit alternative test scores, such as AP exams, IB scores, or SAT Subject Test scores (if available).

• Who benefits from this policy? Students who may not have performed as well on the SAT or ACT but have strong scores in other areas, such as advanced placement courses, can still demonstrate their academic potential.

How to Navigate These Policies

With many different policies, it’s important to research the specific policies and requirements of each college on your list. Here are a few tips to help you make the best decisions about your test scores:

• Check each school’s official admissions website: Policies can change from year to year, so make sure you’re reviewing the most current information for the schools you’re applying to.
• Evaluate your strengths: If your test scores are a strong point in your application, submit them, even if the school is test-optional. On the other hand, if they don’t align with your overall profile, consider leaving them out.
• Talk to your school-based or independent college counselor to strategize about where and when to send your scores 
• Use superscoring and Score Choice to your advantage: If applicable, sending your best possible scores or your highest section scores can help boost your application.
• Consider alternative tests for test-flexible schools: If you excel in AP or IB courses, these scores may provide a strong alternative to traditional standardized tests.

The landscape of college admissions has shifted (and will almost certainly continue to do so), with many schools moving away from requiring standardized test scores. By understanding these test score policies—whether test-optional, test-blind, test-required, or test-flexible—you can strategically plan your application and highlight the parts of your academic journey that showcase your strengths.

Conclusion

Staying informed and taking control of your test score submissions will help you present the best version of yourself to admissions committees. Remember, standardized test scores are just one piece of the puzzle in building a strong college application! By taking a proactive approach and carefully evaluating your options, you can make the most out of the admissions process—whether or not you submit test scores.