Credit to Zoe Lobato

The SAT and ACT are notorious tests that have long been stressful for many students filling out their college applications. But as education has evolved and COVID-19 has disrupted testing, many schools have switched to test-optional, which calls into question if SAT and ACT scores still matter. The policy of test-optional admissions changes with each university. Some still factor in a student’s score with their final decisions, whether it improves or hurts their chances, while others disregard anything that weakens their application.

“The way schools handle test scores varies,” Sean Bierman, an admissions counselor at St. Louis University, said. “Some set a general average, but it depends. Some schools automatically consider only the highest score, while others review everything a student submits. Test-optional schools might only use scores if they help the student, but at others, submitting a lower score could still factor into their decision.”

If standardized testing no longer influences a student’s acceptance, other factors have the opportunity to step forward, thus putting greater emphasis on other aspects of the student’s academic career.

“Rigorous courses, your resume, letters of recommendation and essays will all play a part,” Brooke Prestige, the FHN college and career counselor, said. “GPA plays a big role, especially if you are applying for a test-optional, which is a main factor they’re looking at.”

The mindset that standardized tests determine the success of students in college has positively developed. Since high school and college environments are so different, standardized tests don’t always correctly predict student success. Some excel in school but struggle with tests, while others can test well despite having lower GPAs.

“Test scores do not predict how well a student will perform in college,” Travis Patoc, an assistant director of admissions at Maryville University, said. “In high school, students study everything, compared to college, where you learn about something you are passionate about. Some students excel at standardized testing, but struggle in classes, while others perform well in school but don’t test well. In some cases, students with lower GPAs score exceptionally high on standardized tests, helping them qualify for scholarships they wouldn’t have received otherwise.”

While some schools still regard the students’ test scores with the same level of importance as a GPA, they now play a bigger role in scholarship decisions and can greatly impact a student’s package when receiving their acceptance.

“These tests can jump up your scholarship package significantly,” Prestige said. “Even bumping your [test] scores up, just a couple of points, could mean the difference between several thousands of dollars.”

The decision to submit ACT and SAT scores now rests with the student, and their view of their capabilities and what they choose to believe is the best path in their college experience.

“Ultimately, most students take these tests for college admissions, but the goal is earning a degree and a career,” Patoc said. “Standardized tests can help maximize a student’s potential, but students need to decide whether taking these tests is worth the stress and effort based on their strengths and college goals.”