Does an SAT/ACT Test Score Matter in 2022?
Movies, birthday parties, awards ceremonies, sports games—parents and students have missed a lot of memorable moments over the past year, but who would have thought students would actually wish they could take the SAT and ACT? Although these tests have been a dreaded and oftentimes stressful part of the college admissions process, it may not be time to completely disregard them along with everything else of the year 2020. These tests are still an important part of most college applications, even amidst a growing test-optional movement.
Defining Test-Optional
In the midst of SAT and ACT test cancellations because of Covid-19, 72% of colleges and universities, even historically selective ones, adjusted their evaluation of applicants and suspended SAT or ACT requirements, opting for a test-optional or test-flexible process. This just means that you are no longer required to submit an SAT or ACT score for admission, but you can choose to submit it with your application if you want it considered in your evaluation. Many institutions adopted this change for a year; some are trying it for multiple years; and a few have already gone permanent with the decision. For some colleges like Wake Forest and the University of Chicago, test-optional is not new. These colleges are among a group of approximately 1,000 universities who have been test-optional since well before Covid. However, for most, this process was a completely new approach and turned the review process upside down for the Class of 2021. It certainly worked for the colleges, as application numbers have soared this year creating lower admit rates at many universities. Additionally, the colleges received a wider demographic of applicants which have given them more to consider and evaluate as they select their classes.
As we give guidance to the Class of 2022, the most important distinction we want our students and parents to remember is that test-optional does not mean test-blind. Students and parents may wonder whether it is worth it to try to take the SAT or ACT, which we can’t blame you for asking. As you consider your next steps, keep in mind that test-optional schools will not only consider your scores if you submit them, but a strong score could put you at an advantage.
Testing creates OPTIONS for students in 2022 and beyond:
As the likelihood of many colleges staying test-optional looks strong, we believe the current testing landscape creates low-pressure opportunities for students. A test-optional policy gives students the choice to represent themselves with or without a test score, and a test score no longer determines where a student can apply.
While every student is different, and we would want to consider each student’s goals individually, we believe that taking the SAT and/or ACT is still an invaluable step for college admission—and here’s why:
Rising application numbers—Increased application numbers because of test-optional announcements make the competition that much more intense. A strong test score will still be considered by most schools, and that score could be one more reason your application rises to the top of the new sea of applications.
Low stakes—Juniors (and likely sophomores) have little to lose by taking an SAT or ACT. If you don't hit a target score, you don't have to submit it, in most cases. Unlike previous years, a test score won’t hold you back from pursuing colleges, but it can certainly help you stand out. It’s actually a very low-pressure way to take these previously high-pressured tests.
Showcase a subject-specific strength—A strong test score can demonstrate your aptitude in a certain academic area. For example, a high math score for an engineering applicant will help you to shine among other STEM applicants.
Reiterate academic abilities—Doing well on the SAT or ACT can help show your academic promise when other parts of your application like grades or coursework may not reveal your full potential.
Scholarships—Many colleges still require a test score in order to award students a scholarship. Despite a high GPA, a student must show a test score for top dollar at some colleges. At schools like Texas Tech, with pre-determined scholarship tiers, a test score removes the guesswork for scholarship committees and can guarantee merit aid for students.
Students considering whether or not to take the SAT or ACT should look carefully at their list of colleges to evaluate current testing policies. We hope you will look at this new trend as an opportunity to take the SAT or ACT with little pressure and a lot to gain. Contact us for more information about our one-to-one test prep tutoring to help you plan ahead and achieve your best score.