"Test Optimal” Reaps Benefits in a "Test Optional" Time
Even before the pandemic, colleges and universities were weighing the decision to change their admissions policies; many choosing to go “test optional,” “test flexible,” or “test blind” either temporarily or permanently.
This really isn’t news; this change goes way back - over 50 years years back, in fact - to Bowdoin College in 1969, when Bowdoin eliminated standardized testing requirements. Since then, Bowdoin College has seen and still sees enough merit in applicants’ test score submissions to accept and review them; proof that even “test optional” schools don’t ignore test scores.
Fast forward a few years and other schools during that time made similar changes (i.e., Wesleyan University, Bryn Mawr College, George Washington University) while also allowing students to submit test scores with their applications. Again, these schools were by no means ignoring submitted test scores.
Which brings us to the current “trend” of more schools making the switch to “test optional” in lieu of required scores - particularly with the onset and continuance of the pandemic. Understandably, many schools haven’t had much of a choice, until recently, given the mass testing cancellations and students’ inability to fairly access exam opportunities.
Thankfully, we are turning a corner, and ACT® and SAT® testing is making a strong comeback as pandemic conditions continue to improve. Students are opting to submit strong test scores with their profiles for college admissions - even to those colleges who have dropped the requirement. So while many colleges remain “test optional,” top-tier applicants continue to choose a “test optimal” strategy.
Submitting Test Scores May Lead to a Greater Chance of Admission
Regardless of schools either installing a temporary or permanent change to their standardized testing policies, we know that these schools still review and accept submitted test scores. We also know that since more schools have gone test optional, there has been a significant increase in college applications. Therefore, we know that students who achieve and submit strong ACT® and SAT® scores automatically stand apart from their peers in overcrowded application pools.
Students With Test Scores Are Able to Defy Increasing Competition From Those Without Scores
Speaking of overcrowded application pools, in a previous post we talked about 2021 being a record year for college applications. Schools are being bombarded with an overwhelming number of applications, which means that students have to do their best to make a quick and lasting impression when their application gets reviewed.
Students who submit test scores are able to stand up to the mounting competition from other applicants. Admissions staff are able to make a quick decision of whether or not a student would be an academic fit simply by seeing a solid test score. That test score can serve as the critical piece that justifies the prediction that a student has what it takes to succeed at a particular school.
Top-Tier Schools With Test Optional Policies Have Become Even Harder to Get Into
Competition for college admissions into any of the nation’s elite schools is fierce. For those popular colleges that have relaxed their testing policies, their admissions protocols and acceptance rates have become even more stringent. These colleges have far fewer seats available and far more applicants vying for admittance.
That said, test-optimal students have a fighting chance even at the most elite colleges and universities. Schools want to know that they are admitting students who will find success in their programs, and students who submit solid ACT® or SAT® test scores are able to prove from the outset that they are an ideal academic fit based on how students with similar scores have performed in the past.
If Your Client Is on the Fence About Submitting Their Score, Encourage Them to Send It.
It’s always hard when a student gets to application season and they’re dithering about sending in their test scores. If that student has obtained a good score, then by all means, encourage them to send it. If there is room for improvement, crafting a personalized test prep plan and retesting can be the difference maker that helps your clients stand out from the pack.
Yes, what constitutes a good score depends largely on the target school. However, there are far more chances that a good score adds value to a student’s overall profile than diminishes it. Regardless of what the acceptable test score range is at their target school(s), a strong score can make a huge difference.
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: in these test-optional times, test optimal strategies will continue to win out. Effectively communicating this fact to your current and prospective clients will continue to be a crucial component of growing your test prep company and brand.
Our white-label SAT® and ACT® curricular materials are the perfect way to add both differentiated test-prep capabilities as well as add a level of brand-building professionalism to your business. Our combination of print and digital test-prep tools can help you reach more students and help your students reach higher levels of success.
