Ever since the pandemic, more and more colleges are going test-optional, which means they allow applicants to decide whether they want to include standardized test scores in their applications. This policy was originally expanded because testing centers were closed and access to exams was limited. But even as normalcy has returned, thousands of colleges have chosen to keep these policies in place through the
Class of 2026 and beyond.
The important thing to understand is that test-optional doesn’t mean test-blind.
If a
college is test-optional, you may submit your SAT or ACT scores if you think they’ll strengthen your application. The college will consider them. If you don’t, admissions officers will evaluate your GPA, coursework, essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars instead. A test-blind college, however, won’t consider scores at all, even if you send them.
So while you’re not required to test at a test-optional school, you can still benefit from a strong score if you decide to submit it. At a test-blind school, the scores will never be taken into consideration, for or against you.
How Colleges Are Using Scores Now
Standardized tests still hold value in test-optional admissions.
Colleges use SAT and ACT scores as one data point among many to assess academic readiness for students from schools with great inflation or different grading standards; a strong score can provide context and consistency.
Admission officers often view a good test score as a signal of preparedness, especially for competitive majors like engineering, business, or pre-med. In addition, some test-optional universities may ask for test results if you are applying for things like honors programs or merit-based scholarships. You might not need to test to apply there, but the benefits of submitting scores can go beyond just “getting in.”
Should I Even Take The SAT or ACT?
For juniors, the question isn’t whether testing is ”good” or “bad.” It’s about what aligns best with your goals.
The
SAT vs. ACT comparison often comes down to personal learning style. The SAT emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving, with more time per question. The ACT, on the other hand, moves faster and includes a science reasoning section, which is appealing to students who like data and precision.
Generally, both are accepted equally by nearly all colleges that take test scores.
If you’re unsure, take a
free practice test for each. Compare how you feel about pacing, question types, and timing. Then, decide which format suits you better. The right test for someone else may not be the right one for you, and that’s okay.
Research First, Decide Next
One of the smartest ways to make an informed decision on whether or not to submit scores is by researching score ranges for your potential colleges. Most schools publish the middle 50% range of SAT and ACT scores for recently admitted students. This range shows where most successful applicants scored.
Try searching phrases like “average SAT score [college name]” or “ACT middle 50% [college name].” If your current or projected score falls within or above that range, it could strengthen your application. If your score is significantly lower, not submitting test scores and instead
focusing on essays, leadership, or GPA may serve you better.
Remember, testing isn’t an all-or-nothing choice. You can take the test, review your score, and then decide whether to submit it based on each college’s profile. Research empowers you to approach testing strategically, not anxiously.
Test-Optional Colleges: Freedom of Choice
Many respected universities remain test-optional for the 2026 admission cycle. Schools like Columbia University, Duke University, New York University, Vanderbilt University, and more allow applicants to choose whether to include test scores.
At these colleges,
admissions officers evaluate students holistically, meaning essays, recommendations, activities, and transcripts carry more weight. But for applicants who strongly shine through standardized testing as well (such as those from smaller schools or international programs), scores can serve as a strong supporting factor.
In other words, test-optional doesn’t mean tests are irrelevant. It means you have the power to control whether or not admissions officers see them. You have control over how to present your academic story.
Test-Blind Colleges: When Scores Really Don’t Matter
A smaller but
growing group of colleges is test-blind, meaning they won’t look at test results even if you submit them. As for the 2026 cycle, some schools that are keeping this policy include the University of California system, Boston College, and more.
For these institutions, your transcript, essays, and extracurricular achievements speak for themselves. Testing simply is not part of the equation. Students applying to test-blind colleges can even skip standardized exams with full confidence that their chances will not be affected.
The policy especially benefits students who feel standardized tests don’t reflect their true abilities or who prefer to showcase long-term academic consistency. Whether you had a
perfect score or didn’t take the test, admissions officers will not receive this information.
The Link Between Tests and Scholarships
Even at test-optional colleges,
standardized tests and scholarships remain closely connected. Many universities, as well as private organizations, use SAT or ACT scores to award merit-based scholarships and financial aid. In some states, Flagship universities still tie certain scholarships to test results, regardless of test-optional admissions.
Earning a competitive score on a test such as the PSAT/NMSQT can also qualify you for National programs like the
National Merit Scholarship. Additionally, local scholarships offered by businesses, community groups, and alumni associations may offer scholarships for all students with test scores above a certain point.
While not every scholarship requires testing, submitting strong scores can unlock opportunities you might otherwise miss. If
affordability is a major factor in your college decision, testing could give you an extra advantage.
Why Testing Early Can Help
If you decide to take an exam, consider doing it early, ideally during your junior year.
Taking a standardized test ahead of senior year deadlines gives you time to retake it if needed or explore super- scoring options (where colleges combine your best section scores from different test dates).
