Hey guys, junior here kind of freaking out... Are colleges still heavily weighing ACT/SAT scores, or are they moving towards test-optional policies? What scores should I be aiming for to stay competitive?
Hello! As a college admissions counselor, I understand the stress surrounding standardized tests. It's true that many colleges are continuing with test-optional policies, allowing students the choice of whether to submit ACT/SAT scores. However, if you do choose to submit scores, they can still play a role in the admissions decision, especially at competitive institutions.
For staying competitive, you should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of admitted students' scores for the colleges you're interested in. For example, if a university's middle 50% for the SAT is between 1300-1480, aiming above 1300 helps your competitiveness. That said, it's important to balance test preparation with maintaining strong grades and engaging deeply with your extracurriculars, as these are also crucial components of your application.
Remember, each part of your application offers a piece of the puzzle that outlines who you are as a student and person. Always keep a holistic view of your application in mind, and don't let standardized tests overshadow your other incredible qualities and achievements. Best of luck, and remember to breathe—you've got this!
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