What's the deal with test-optional?

Hey guys! I'm seeing that a lot of colleges are still going test-optional. What's the deal with that? How does it affect the application process? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

Test-optional policies have become increasingly prevalent among colleges in recent years. These policies allow students to decide whether to submit their SAT or ACT scores as part of their college applications. The primary reason behind the adoption of test-optional policies is to reduce the reliance on standardized test scores and place a greater emphasis on other aspects of an applicant's profile, such as high school performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

The impact of test-optional policies on the application process depends on your individual situation. For students who have strong test scores that align with or exceed the average scores of accepted students at a particular college, submitting these scores can bolster their application. Conversely, for students whose test scores may not be as strong, test-optional policies allow them to focus on showcasing other strengths in their application without the potential negative impact of lower test scores.

When applying to test-optional colleges, evaluate your test scores in the context of the college's typical accepted student profile and your overall application. If your scores are strong and will help your application, submit them. If not, use the test-optional policy to your advantage and focus on highlighting your other strengths.

Overall, test-optional policies provide applicants with more control over the information they present to colleges during the admissions process. When applying to colleges with these policies, carefully consider whether submitting your test scores will benefit your application and make a decision accordingly. Best of luck with your applications!