Standardized test scores like the SAT and ACT have long been staples of college applications. But with more schools going test-optional, when and how to submit scores now involves careful strategy. Consider test policies and your results to determine if submitting helps or potentially hurts your admissions chances.
Know Whether Scores Are Required
Before preparing and registering for tests, research whether they are necessary for the colleges you are applying to. Many schools suspended testing requirements during COVID-19 and have now adopted permanent test-optional policies.
The “80% of top universities are now test-optional,” notes education expert Robert Schaeffer. So scores may no longer be needed for your target schools. This saves you time and money. If tests are optional, you can submit only if results will strengthen your profile.
Understand How Scores Are Used
Colleges use scores differently. Some consider them very important, while others focus more on transcripts and essays even when scores are submitted. Low scores do not automatically disqualify applicants everywhere.
Call admission offices to ask how much emphasis they place on SAT/ACT results and average scores of admitted students. This inside information helps determine if scores will make or break your chances.
Take Practice Tests First
Before registering for official administrations, take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This familiarizes you with format and pacing while revealing strengths and weaknesses to address through studying.
Analyze wrong answers to see where you need improvement. Adjust preparation approaches based on insights from practice tests. According to test prep expert Lee Weiss, “Practice tests diagnose your current level, saving money from registering before you are truly ready.”
Align Testing with Strengths
The SAT and ACT have different structures assessing somewhat distinct skills. The SAT focuses more on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and math reasoning. The ACT emphasizes science and has a faster pace.
Take practice versions of both to determine which better suits your abilities. Play to your strengths in choosing one test to invest in. Prep focusing on your higher potential score.
Register Strategically
You can take SATs and ACTs multiple times, but avoid over-testing which can be exhausting. Three total sessions maximum allows progress between attempts. And you want your strongest scores by early in senior fall for college applications.
So strategically schedule testing between sophomore spring and senior fall. Expert tutor Allen Cheng advises, “Map out a plan spacing test dates optimally so you peak when it counts most.”
Submit Selective Scores
Colleges allow you to choose which test dates to submit scores from. So only send your highest results. Withhold lower scores from earlier tests once you reach higher levels.
For schools accepting superscores, you can combine your best results across sessions in each subject. This showcases strengths across multiple attempts. Picking your highest scores puts you in the best light.
Consider Going Test Optional
If practice shows your scores will not be competitive, applying test-optional may be wise even when scores are accepted. Strong grades, course rigor, essays and activities then compensate for missing test results.
According to admission officer Jim Rawlins, “Mediocre scores can drag down otherwise stellar applicants, while omitted scores cause no damage.” So only submit scores benefiting your profile.
Send Immediately After Testing
Quickly send scores to colleges after each test date while they are fresh. Both the SAT and ACT offer free score reports right after you complete the exam. Taking advantage of this sends scores instantly.
Waiting risks forgetting and scores expiring. Immediate reporting also allows time to retest if needed. College consultant Jilly Becker says, “Right after testing, students just want scores submitted before second guessing.”
Arrange Fee Waivers in Advance
SAT and ACT fee waivers make tests affordable for lower-income students. Eligible students receive waivers covering two test sessions including reporting to multiple colleges. But you must obtain waivers in advance, either from your high school counselor if qualified or by contacting testing agencies directly.
Don’t miss out on waived fees that make testing accessible. As education advocate Akil Bello states, “Fee waivers are a critical support – low-income students need to learn how to request them proactively.”
Practice Extensively for Subject Tests
Many competitive colleges require SAT Subject Tests in specialized topics like Math, Literature, Chemistry, etc. You must specifically prep for these beyond standard SATs. Since they draw directly from classroom learning, review content thoroughly and take practice tests to identify Subjects aligning with your knowledge. Then focus preparation and testing on those strengths.
Conclusion
Used strategically, test scores can substantiate your academic abilities within college applications. But unnecessary testing causes needless stress. Be judicious in determining if and when to test based on college requirements and your preparation level. With smart planning, testing can bolster your admissions profile.
