Are standardized test scores still important?

Hey there, I'm a junior and I've noticed that a lot of colleges are going test-optional. Are standardized test scores still important in the college admissions process, or should I focus on other parts of my application?

Hello! It's true that many colleges have gone test-optional, especially in response to the pandemic. However, standardized test scores can still be an important part of the college admissions process for some schools. It really depends on the school and the rest of your application. If you have strong test scores, they can help you stand out from other applicants, especially if your GPA or extracurriculars are not as competitive. On the other hand, if your test scores are not as high, focusing on other parts of your application may be more beneficial.

My child went through the college application process recently, and we found that some colleges still place a significant emphasis on test scores, while others truly treat them as optional. If you're unsure about a specific school, it's a good idea to research their admissions requirements and reach out to their admissions office to ask about their approach to test scores.

Ultimately, you should think about your own strengths and how you can best showcase them in your application. If you think your test scores will help, then go for it! If not, focus on your essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendations to make your application as strong as possible. Good luck!