ACT-Optional Colleges: Who Are They?

Feeling a bit overwhelmed and could use some help – which colleges are skipping the ACT requirement? I'd love to know where I might apply without needing this score.

I absolutely understand the stress test requirements can add to the application process—it's a lot to manage on top of everything else! Many colleges have adopted a test-optional policy, particularly since the 2020 pandemic when testing became less accessible to students. This means that you can choose whether or not to submit ACT or SAT scores with your application.

What's great is that some of these schools are well-known institutions, providing a wide range of options for students. This list includes but is not limited to private schools like the University of Chicago, top-tier institutions like the Ivies, and many public university systems, including the University of California system. It's important to identify the schools and programs you're interested in and then take a look at their admissions pages or reach out directly to their admissions offices to confirm their testing policies, as they can change.

Additionally, some schools have moved to being test-blind, which means they won't consider test scores even if they are submitted. Examples as of the last few years include Hampshire College and Caltech. However, remember that competitive programs within test-optional schools may still recommend submitting scores. So, if you have a decent ACT score or the means to take the test, it might still be beneficial to do so, especially if you're looking at more selective programs.

To keep updated on the latest test-optional schools, you can also check the FairTest website, which maintains a comprehensive list of test-optional and test-blind schools. But remember to double-check any information with the colleges themselves for the most up-to-date policies. Best of luck with your applications!