2020-2021 was a whirlwind in terms of standardized testing. With cancellations, limited seats, rescheduling, and catching up, it was a challenge for families to navigate. While colleges reverting to “test optional” provided some relief, it still left a lot of questions to be answered as far as what approach to testing is best for students.
A test optional atmosphere without a doubt offers students who are not encouraged by testing or don’t see it as an advantage more possibilities. However, in the same breath it further allows students who strive for competitive ACT scores to possess a potential advantage over students who do not.
Test scores are also used as an input that helps colleges assess the chances an admitted student will enroll. Submitting a score demonstrates a tangible interest. Having that option to send scores in your back pocket will boost a student’s opportunity during the application process.
At first glance, the test optional landscape appears to be a victory for students. However, highly selective colleges as a result have become more popular. Regardless of a student’s feeling toward the test, strong scores have value and will continue to be viewed as a needle moving piece of the evaluation process and scholarship criteria.
“Most colleges see their yields drop as scores rise because those with the very highest scores tend to have an array of alternatives. Colleges that offer merit aid will use discretionary funds as incentive to improve their chances of yielding their strongest admits by discounting tuition strategically. At such schools, good test scores help earn applicants admission. Better test scores may help earn them rewards.”
“The term “test optional” has become a household phrase, but it lacks crucial context for the student in your particular household. Since admission decisions are made contextually, holistically, situationally, and individually, students should take the same approach when making their choices.”
Start by answering these questions:
• Do most students from my high school usually take the SAT / ACT?
• What are the average test scores from my high school?
• Will most applicants—particularly from backgrounds like mine—submit test scores to my target colleges?
• What are the average test scores at my target colleges?
-Via Compass Education Group
What to Expect 2022 and Beyond:
The decline in testing was more a result of cancelled testing opportunities than schools moving to test optional. We already have seen and will continue to expect a bounce back in testing going forward.
Test scores have become important once again for the class of 2022+. Test optional policies have increased competition at popular schools, and sending scores may increase the likelihood of admission. Because of the this if students on the fence about testing, they should lean toward it as well as sending their scores.