What if I don't take the SAT?

Hey guys! I'm starting to plan for college admissions and I'm wondering what would happen if I don't take the SAT? Like, can I still get into good colleges or is it going to hurt my chances?

Hello! It's great that you're starting to plan for college admissions. To answer your question, not taking the SAT doesn't necessarily mean you can't get into good colleges. Many schools have adopted test-optional policies since the pandemic, which means they don't require SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process.

That being said, there are some caveats to test-optional policies, so make sure you check out CollegeVine's overview of these policies before deciding for sure not to take the test: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/. Especially at highly selective schools, you'll probably still want to submit a test score in order to maximize your chances of acceptance.

If you decide not to take the SAT, you should focus on other aspects of your application to showcase your strengths and accomplishments. Make sure you have a strong GPA and take rigorous courses (like AP or IB classes), to demonstrate your academic readiness for college despite not having a test score, and engage in meaningful extracurricular activities to set yourself apart from other talented applicant who may also have done well on the SAT. Having well-crafted essays that provide insight into your personality and passions can also be a significant factor in your application.

That being said, some colleges may still require SAT scores for certain programs or scholarships, so it's essential to research each school's individual policies. If you come across an intriguing opportunity that requires an SAT score, do keep in mind that the ACT will probably also be accepted, and it's possible you feel a more natural affinity for that other test.

In summary, not taking the SAT can limit your options in some cases, but many colleges are becoming increasingly test-optional, meaning it may not negatively impact your college process as much as it once would have. Overall, focus on building a strong and well-rounded application to increase your chances of acceptance, but always double-check each school's standardized testing policy.

Good luck with your college planning!