Testing Policies
Test-Optional
Colleges that are test optional allow students to decide whether to submit test scores and accept both the ACT and SAT from students who submit scores Schools that are test optional sometimes have exceptions to the policy For example, admission to an honors program or guaranteed admission into a graduate program at the time of admission to undergraduate school might require test scores even if the college is test optional. Therefore, it is essential for students to be clear on the choices based on their individual circumstances.
Test-Blind
The terms test free and score free are used interchangeably with test blind Institutions that are test blind will not consider ACT or SAT scores in admission decisions, even if they are submitted However, they might use test scores for placement purposes upon enrollment
Test-Flexible
Test flexible colleges allow students to decide which test scores to submit with their application, including ACT or SAT results. They can also submit AP or IB exam scores. As with test optional, it is vital for students to understand the exact expectations of each college where they intend to apply. Some schools require a specific number of AP/IB exams and/or test results in certain subject areas.
Test-Preferred
Test-preferred colleges encourage applicants to submit test scores even if they are not required Even if a test optional college does not explicitly indicate that it is test-preferred, parents and students can judge fairly well if the college is by looking up a college’s Common Data Set (just google the school’s name with “common data set” after the school name) and noting the percentage of enrolled students who submitted test scores.
Class Rank/GPA Substitution
At some schools, students may forgo sending in SAT/ACT scores if they meet the college’s minimum required GPA or class rank. If they do not meet these minimum requirements, however, they must submit SAT/ACT scores with their application. Specific requirements vary among schools.
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