Smarter Admissions

Standardized testing, once a mainstay of the college application process, has faced some challenges in recent years. With group testing rendered impossible during the pandemic, most colleges and universities adopted a “test-optional” policy. This meant that students could decide whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

Now that a half-decade has passed since the onset of the pandemic, the landscape is changing. Let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions (and answers!) regarding standardized testing.

What’s happening with standardized testing in college admissions?

For Fall 2026 admissions, there are still differences in what colleges expect as part of their admissions requirements. A growing number of schools are back to requiring SAT or ACT scores, while some remain test-optional, and others are committed to staying test-blind (aka test-free). Requirements are changing frequently!

The UC system and the CSU system are test-blind and will remain so. 

However, there are a lot of colleges and universities where administrators have determined that standardized testing is a useful predictor of student performance in college. These schools include (but are not limited to):

• MIT
• Harvard University
• Georgetown University
• UT Austin
• Georgia Tech
• Stanford University

In all, there are about 40 colleges that require an SAT or ACT score for the college application to be considered.

Does test-optional really mean it doesn’t matter?

Not exactly. At test-optional schools, tests are used as an additional information point to support your student’s application. Just like writing a compelling essay, demonstrating course rigor, and having meaningful extracurricular activities, a good test score bolsters your student’s application

Moreover, there are several test-optional schools where statistics from the Common Data Set show a definite preference for testing. In other words, students who submit test scores are admitted at a rate of 50%-200% higher than students who do not submit test scores. Examples of these schools include (but are not limited to):

• University of Notre Dame
• University of Virginia
• Boston College
• Emory University

Remember that this is a rapidly changing situation, so you need to confirm whether or not the schools consider or require standardized testing. Changes are being announced regularly!

Is it worth my teen’s time to test?

In most cases, YES! As mentioned above, many schools believe that a solid score on a standardized test is a reliable indicator of a student’s success in college. It is another demonstration of your student’s ability to do challenging work. 

Taking the SAT or ACT is especially important if your application strategy includes being awarded merit money to decrease college costs. Even schools that are test-optional for admissions often use standardized tests as a way of determining merit scholarships. 

(Not sure what your application strategy is? Schedule an informational call to see how Study Smarter can help.)

How does the PSAT fit into this conversation?

The PSAT is administered in the Fall of the junior year at many high schools in the United States. This is the test that determines eligibility for the National Merit Scholar scholarship program. A high score on the PSAT can translate into an honorific designation (Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, Finalist).

This designation can be included on college applications (even at test-blind schools), and the designation may deliver a scholarship as well, depending on which college your student attends.

The PSAT has a format very similar to the SAT. Preparation for the PSAT is often done in the summer before junior year.

Is it better for my student to take the SAT or the ACT?

It depends on your student! Study Smarter can offer advice or administer a practice test of each to see if one format is preferable over the other. This blog post gives a compare/contrast overview of the two tests.

What happens if my teen has test anxiety?

Study Smarter’s proven approach is perfect for the student who sees themselves as “a bad test taker” or for whom standardized tests evoke great anxiety. Our professional tutors work one-on-one with students to help lower anxiety and increase confidence.

Can you help my student boost their SAT or ACT score?

Study Smarter has a 28-year track record of helping students increase both their test scores and their testing confidence.

My student receives accommodations with a 504 plan or IEP. Will those carry over for the SAT or ACT?

Both the College Board (SAT) and the ACT have their own processes for determining accommodations.  Make sure you understand what you need to make SAT accommodation requests and ACT accommodation requests early in the process. It is best to apply for accommodations as soon as possible.

Need advice regarding your high schooler’s standardized testing strategy as it relates to building a college list?

Give the Study Smarter office a call at 510.350.8444! We’ll help you figure out the right options for your child.