Should I include a low SAT score on my application if it's optional?

Hey fellow applicants! I recently took the SAT and didn't do as well as I had hoped. Some of the colleges I'm applying to have made SAT scores optional this year. Should I still include my score on my application, or would it be better to leave it off? Thanks for any advice!

Hey there! It's great that you're seeking advice on this issue. I've been through the college application process with my own child and can share some insights. If your SAT score falls below the average range of scores for the colleges you're applying to, it might be better to leave it off your application. Since it's optional, you can focus on other aspects of your application that highlight your strengths and achievements. However, if your score is within the average range or higher for those colleges, it might be worth including it, as it could demonstrate your academic abilities. It's important to remember that your SAT score is just one component of your application. Colleges look at a variety of factors, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters, to get a holistic understanding of you as a candidate. So, even if you choose not to submit your SAT score, you still have plenty of opportunities to showcase your talents and potential. Ultimately, it's your decision, so go with what you feel most confident about. Good luck with your applications, and I hope you get into the college of your dreams!