During the COVID-19 pandemic most colleges and universities implemented test-optional admissions policies, and many maintain a test-optional policy to this day. Given the academic and social rigors of high school, it may be tempting for you or your child to skip the SAT*.
DON’T.
Some Colleges Still Require It
Even if your child only intends to apply to schools where the test is optional, what if:
- Another school becomes an option and the test is required? Not taking it potentially rules out future choices.
- One of those originally chosen colleges changes their requirements to require the test? While it’s likely the application would be grandfathered if already received, that won’t be the case if it is received after a set date.
Test Blind vs. Test Optional
Be sure to read the fine print.
“Test blind” means the college or university doesn’t take the test into account at all—as though it doesn’t exist. If a college or university indicates the SAT is optional, that means taking the test isn’t required, but it is considered.
Considering the competition for admissions, especially at some of the more prestigious schools, good test scores offer an edge. Taking the test speaks to commitment. And, it could mean the difference between acceptance and rejection.
Unless you’re absolutely sure you’ll only apply to test-blind institutions, take the test.
More Reasons to Take the SAT:
- While a chosen college may be test-optional, your chosen major might require scores.
- Some academic scholarships require SAT scores.
- You may choose to transfer to a university that requires it, either as an undergrad or grad student.
- Taking the SAT prepares you for other standardized tests including the GRE, LSAT, and MCAT.
Beyond Admissions
Preparing for the SAT has benefits far beyond getting ready for one test. The process further develops critical reading and reasoning skills, helps students get accustomed to working under pressure and against the clock, and, given the need to become deeply familiar with standard English conventions and punctuation, enhances writing ability.
Get a Jump on SAT Readiness
As with most endeavors, starting earlier rather than later goes a long way. Yes, most high school students take the SAT in the spring of their junior year, then again in the fall before college application deadlines, but there is tremendous value in taking it sooner.
And no, 7th grade is not too soon to start preparing! In fact, any SAT scores obtained before the end of your 8th grade year are not a part of your permanent record (though if you were to ace it, you can ask to keep the score in your permanent file).
I’ve worked with too many students who waited too long to get started on SAT test prep. It can create panic, hurried preparation, and ultimately a lower score. Besides, when you’re a junior and senior you already have enough happening socially and academically—adding a rushed month of test prep leads to chaos.
Bottom Line:
Yes, you should take the test.
And, the sooner you start preparing, the higher your test score.
*For brevity’s sake, “SAT” is representative of the ACT as well.