What You Need to Know About Applying Test-Optional 

THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEST-OPTIONAL SCHOOLS  A test-optional college lets students decide whether they want to submit test scores with their application. Most test-optional schools will consider SAT and ACT scores if they are submitted 

TEST-OPTIONAL POLICIES DIFFER FROM COLLEGE TO COLLEGE -  Some test-optional policies come with restrictions. For example Some colleges require test scores for out-of-state or international students, or for students pursuing certain majors. Some test-optional schools may determine your test-optional eligibility using an index calculated from your GPA, test scores, and class rank. 

OTHER PARTS OF YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE CLOSELY SCRUTINIZED -  Colleges want as much information about you as possible. So without test scores, it’s likely that other parts of your application -- your grades and grade trends, essays, extracurricular activities, and achievements  

TEST SCORES MIGHT BE REQUIRED FOR MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS -  Many test-optional colleges look at test scores when awarding merit scholarships, so not submitting them might put you at a disadvantage. Be sure to confirm all scholarship requirements before applying.  

HOW TO FIND OUT WHICH COLLEGES ARE TEST-OPTIONAL -  Go to FairTest for an up-to-date list of accredited colleges and universities that do not use or de-emphasize ACT/SAT scores in their college admissions process.  

The Rising Popularity of Test- Optional Admissions - Why are more schools going test-optional? One major reason has been the global pandemic and its impact on students’ ability to take, retake, and even prepare for standardized tests.  

How to Decide What’s Best for  You -  If the school or schools you’re applying to have test-optional admissions, there are two main questions to consider. The first is whether you should take one of the standardized college admissions tests and, second, if you do take the test, whether to share your scores. 

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