Over the past few years, you’ve probably heard the term “test-optional” thrown around regarding college admissions.
Maybe you’ve even wondered what that means for your child’s college chances. You’re not alone.
Test-optional policies have changed the way students apply to college. In the past, a student’s SAT or ACT score was often a major deciding factor in whether they got accepted.
Now, many schools allow applicants to choose whether or not to submit test scores, making the admissions process very different.
At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we help families understand this information and create a smart admissions strategy.
What are test-optional policies?
At its core, a test-optional policy means students decide whether to submit their SAT or ACT scores as part of their college application.
Test-optional is different from:
- Test-required: Where all applicants must submit scores.
- Test-blind: Where colleges won’t consider scores, even if students submit them.
Many top schools have embraced test-optional policies.
The reasons behind this shift include:
- Fairness & accessibility: Not all students can access expensive test prep courses or tutoring equally.
- Holistic admissions: Colleges want to evaluate students on more than just a single test score.
- The COVID-19 effect: Because testing sites were closed during the pandemic, many schools dropped their test requirements, and some have remained that way.
While test-optional policies sound like a win for students, they also raise an important question: If you don’t submit test scores, how else can you stand out?
Why test-optional policies matter
Before test-optional policies, many students felt immense pressure to score high on the SAT or ACT. Test-optional helps a broader range of students be considered for higher learning, including those who struggle on tests but are otherwise well-performing.
Test-optional allows for more flexibility, but that doesn’t necessarily mean things are more straightforward.
Here’s what test-optional means for students.
If you submit your scores
Strong test scores can help your application and set you apart from other applicants.
Some competitive programs like business or engineering may still value high scores.
If you don’t submit your scores
Colleges will place even more emphasis on GPA, essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation.
Your application needs to be well-rounded to stand out.
Pros of test-optional policies
- Less pressure to take and retake standardized tests
- Greater focus on academic and personal strengths
- Helps students with strong GPAs but weaker test scores
Cons of test-optional policies
- More competition—more students applying to top schools
- Students must work harder to make other parts of their application shine
- Some students worry that not submitting scores could be seen as a weakness
At CBRG, we help students weigh these factors and decide whether submitting test scores is right for them.
How to strengthen your application in a test-optional world
If you’re not submitting test scores, every other part of your application must be as strong as possible.
Instead of test scores, colleges will look at the following factors more closely.
Academic performance (GPA & course rigor)
- Colleges want to see challenging coursework (AP, IB, honors classes).
- GPA matters more than ever; A strong academic record shows consistency.
Extracurricular activities
- Colleges value depth over breadth, meaning they prefer long-term commitment over a long list of activities.
- Leadership roles, community service, or projects that align with your intended major are a big plus.
Personal statement and essays
- This is your chance to tell your unique story—who you are, what drives you, and what you’ll bring to a college campus.
- Authenticity is key. Admissions officers can tell when an essay is overly polished or lacks personality.
Recommendation letters
- Choose recommenders (teachers, mentors) who know you well and can speak to your strengths.
- Give them examples of your achievements to help them write a strong letter.
Interviews (if offered)
- Take advantage of optional interviews. They’re a great way to showcase your personality beyond your application.
- Be prepared with thoughtful answers about your goals, interests, and why you want to attend that particular school.
At CBRG, we guide students through all of these steps, ensuring they present the best possible version of themselves to colleges.
Should you submit your test scores?
Just because a school is test-optional doesn’t mean submitting test scores is a bad idea.
Here’s how to decide:
Submit your scores if:
- Your SAT/ACT score is above the school’s middle 50% range.
- The school/program you’re applying to still places high value on test scores.
- Your test score strengthens your application.
Don’t submit your scores if:
- Your score is below the school’s average.
- Other parts of your application (GPA, extracurriculars, essays) tell a stronger story.
- You didn’t get a chance to take the test or prepare properly.
Still unsure? CBRG can help you make the right call.
How CBRG helps families navigate test-optional admissions
At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we know how overwhelming the college admissions process can be—especially with all the recent changes.
That’s why we offer personalized support to help families make informed decisions.
What CBRG offers:
- Test-optional admission strategy: We help students decide whether to submit test scores based on their academic profile and target schools.
- Application coaching: Essay development, interview prep, and extracurricular planning to strengthen applications.
- Financial aid and scholarship guidance: Finding merit-based scholarships (some of which may still require test scores) and helping families maximize financial aid opportunities.
- Personalized college plans: We customize our approach based on each student’s strengths, goals, and financial situation.
We aim to eliminate confusion and help students confidently navigate the admissions process, whether they submit test scores or not.
Ready to take the next steps? Let CBRG guide you
Navigating the ever-changing college admissions process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Whether you’re unsure about submitting test scores, need help crafting the perfect essay, or want to maximize your scholarship opportunities, College Benefits Research Group (CBRG) is here to help.
Contact College Benefits Research Group for a free consultation and to join one of our virtual college planning workshops.
