Should I Still Take The ACT If I Want to Apply to a Test-Optional College?

/ Breakaway Prep Park City/

Several high-profile schools – including Boston University, Tufts, University of Oregon, Oregon State, University of Georgia, and the University of California schools - have recently announced going “test-optional” for the class of 2021.  Test-optional policies give college applicants the choice of whether to submit their standardized test scores.  Does that mean your student doesn’t need to take (or study for) the ACT?  Not really.  It depends. A student will be better positioned with more options if they take - and excel - at the ACT.  Here are a few points to consider:

  • Improving your ACT score is easier than improving your GPA. Most schools employ a holistic admissions policy; they look at grades, standardized test scores, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. By junior year, the only factors that are still easily influenced are ACT scores, recommendations, and personal essays.  A strong ACT score will still enhance your student’s application even if the school has gone test-optional.   

  • Test-Optional does not mean Test Blind.  If a student submits scores, the college admissions team will consider it as part of the application.  If a student scores lower on their test than they hoped, test-optional colleges give them a chance to demonstrate their strengths in other areas without the negative light cast by a low standardized test score. However, for a student who also has a lower GPA or lacks extracurricular achievements, solid SAT or ACT test scores may be the redeeming quality that helps them secure admission.

  • Test scores are often required for merit-aid awards. Test scores factor directly into merit-aid awards for many colleges and universities that are test-optional. While test scores are not required for admissions, they are often used to award merit-based scholarships.

  • NCAA Division 1 and 2 require ACT scores. NCAA Division 1 and Division 2 schools must meet minimum ACT or SAT requirements.  For more information click here. Similarly, NESCAC collects scores for their league recruiting rules.

For more information and a comprehensive list of test-optional colleges, check out the Fair Test website.

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