You've worked hard on your SAT, and now you're staring at your score wondering if you should send it to test-optional schools. Will submitting help your chances? Could it actually hurt them? The answer isn't the same for everyone, and that's exactly what makes test-optional policies both liberating and confusing.
Most colleges have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, giving you real choice about whether standardized test scores become part of your application. But "optional" doesn't always mean the same thing at every school, and the decision deserves more thought than flipping a coin.
When a college says it's test-optional, you get to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. According to College Board research, close to 50% of applications now include test scores, which tells us students are split on this decision.
Here's what matters: test-optional doesn't mean test-blind. If you submit scores, colleges will look at them. If you don't, they won't hold it against you. The policy simply shifts the power to you.
Some important nuances exist, though. Certain schools require scores for specific majors like engineering or nursing. Others may need them for merit scholarship consideration, even if they're optional for admission. A handful of programs combining bachelor's and master's degrees might require scores regardless of the school's general policy. Always read each college's specific requirements carefully.
Submitting your SAT scores makes sense in several situations.
Your scores are strong. If your SAT score is at or above the middle 50% range for admitted students at your target colleges, sending it can only help. You can check these ranges through college websites or college search tools. Strong scores provide additional evidence of your academic readiness.
Your GPA doesn't tell your full story. Maybe you faced challenges early in high school that affected your grades, but your SAT shows you're ready for college-level work. Or perhaps your school doesn't offer many advanced courses, and your score demonstrates capabilities your transcript alone can't show.
Writing and math are your strengths. If you excel in these areas and your SAT reflects that, the scores offer another way to showcase your abilities, especially if you're pursuing programs where these skills matter.
You're applying for merit scholarships. Many colleges still use test scores for scholarship decisions, even when they're optional for admission. Submitting strong scores keeps these opportunities open.
There are equally valid reasons to apply without test scores.
Your scores fall below the college's typical range. If your SAT is significantly lower than what most admitted students score, it might not add value to your application. In this case, you're better off letting your other materials speak for you.
Your application is strong in other ways. Maybe your GPA is excellent, your college essay is compelling, and your extracurricular involvement shows depth and leadership. If the rest of your application paints a clear picture of your abilities, test scores become less critical.
You're still deciding on your college list. If you haven't finalized where you're applying and your scores are borderline, you might want to research whether scores would help or hurt at your specific schools before making the call.
Start by looking at each college's admitted student profile. Most schools publish the middle 50% SAT score range for their admitted class. If your score falls within or above this range, sending it usually makes sense. If it falls below, consider how the rest of your application looks.
Ask yourself honest questions. What parts of your application are strongest? Where do you need the most support? If your test score fills a gap or reinforces your strengths, submit it. If it introduces doubt where the rest of your application builds confidence, you can probably skip it.
Consider reaching out to admissions offices if you're uncertain. Many schools are happy to give guidance about whether scores would strengthen your specific application. You can also talk with your school counselor, who knows your full academic profile.
Understanding the difference between test-optional and test-blind policies helps too. Some schools truly won't look at scores even if you send them, while others welcome them but don't require them.
Deciding whether to submit test scores is just one piece of your college application strategy.
At LifeWorks, our test preparation services help you build the skills and confidence to earn scores you'll feel good about submitting, while our college counseling support helps you make strategic decisions about every aspect of your application.
Get in touch to talk through your specific situation with someone who sees you as a whole person, not just a test score.
