The policy of requiring the SAT or ACT test as part of a college admissions application has been trending downward for several years. In fact, more than 2,000 colleges and universities issuing Bachelor’s degrees are now either Test Optional (leaving the decision to submit test scores up to the applicant) or Test Free, meaning applicants are not permitted to submit test scores, according to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing (FairTest).

Trend and Countertrend
To make things even more confusing, some schools that stopped requiring test submissions during the COVID-19 pandemic have begun to resume testing requirements, while a smaller number of elite institutions still require students to submit test scores for admission consideration.

It’s Complicated. We’re Here For You!

Varying test submission requirements make college application preparation even more puzzling to navigate. But we can help! Class 101 has the latest information on how college admissions treat test scores in the application process these days – and tips on how to make your submission shine. 

1. Include Your Scores When Required
   It goes without saying (but we’ll say it anyway): When a college application requires an ACT or SAT score submission, you will need to submit your scores. In this scenario, you can be sure the test score will be weighted heavily in your overall application package and therefore should be competitive.
   
2. Test Optional? Put Your Best Foot Forward.
   If your desired school is test optional, think critically and honestly about whether or not you are likely to score well on the PSAT or SAT. It’s difficult to predict how test-optional schools weigh test scores, as each one will apply a different analysis to the score within your overall application package. In these scenarios, submit test scores only if they are excellent to avoid unnecessary penalties.
   
3. Keep in Mind: Excellent test scores set you apart from the competition.
   In a scenario where you and another applicant look “similar on paper,” adding an impressive test score to your application when your counterpart does not submit one will cast your application in a more favorable light overall – simply because the test scores provide more evidence of your strengths.
   
4. Test scores may be required to obtain a scholarship or entrance into a special program.
   Many schools listed as test optional may still require specific types of tests for consideration for special programs or specific majors, or to aid in awarding scholarships and grants. Make sure to read the application details carefully to identify these additional opportunities.
   
5. Decided to Test? We’ve Got You.
   Conventional wisdom states that you should begin preparing for the ACT and SAT three to six months before your actual test date. But we say, start one year prior to your test, typically the summer or fall leading into your Junior year. Class 101 can guide you through the entire test prep process, from decision to scheduling to preparation and practice. 

The Bottom Line
Because it’s difficult to verify which test-optional colleges and universities take high test scores into account in admissions decisions, it’s important to think strategically about your ability to score high when preparing and taking the SAT or PSAT. If you decide to submit test scores to a test-optional school, prepare early and adequately to ensure a competitive result. 

Prep for Success

Class 101 can help your student obtain the best score possible on college entrance exams. [Schedule a free consultation with one of our Brandon college advisors today.

Upcoming Test Prep Courses at Class 101

Preparing for college is an exciting journey. We wish all our students thought standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and PSAT were part of that excitement, but surprisingly, teenagers typically prefer preparing for these tests on their own. 

If you planned on handing your teen a SAT Study Guide and walking away, we’d advise you to save your money. 

At Class 101, we’ve found that a better way of getting students prepared for standardized tests is concentrated workshops with peers that focus on building familiarity with the test, learning test-taking strategies, and identifying areas of weakness that can be improved in a short period of time, resulting in improved test scores. 

We’ve worked with thousands of students and families across the country, and we’ve seen firsthand how a strong test score can open doors:

✅ More college acceptances
✅ Greater scholarship opportunities
✅ Increased confidence heading into senior year

That’s why we believe test prep isn’t just about the test. It’s about giving students the tools to succeed, reducing stress, and setting them up for the future.

This fall, Class 101 Brandon is offering in-person and virtual test prep workshops designed to help Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors perform their very best on upcoming exams.

Fall 2026 Test Prep Opportunities

Here’s what’s coming up this season:

• PSAT Test Prep Workshops
  Perfect for Sophomores and Juniors, this course helps students get comfortable with test-taking strategies while preparing for an exam that can qualify them for the National Merit Scholarship program.
  
• SAT Test Prep Workshops
  Students will review the most frequently tested concepts, practice real test questions, and learn proven strategies to maximize scores on the October and November SAT exams.
  
• ACT Test Prep Workshops
  These workshops are designed to help Juniors and Seniors master timing, tackle tricky questions, and feel confident on test day. Fall ACT Test Prep Workshops prepare students for the October and December ACT tests.

How Test Prep Helps Students

You’ve probably heard the saying, practice makes perfect. At Class101, we like to say practice makes progress. Every hour a student spends preparing translates into greater familiarity with the test, stronger strategies, and better results.

Our comprehensive SAT and ACT prep courses help students:

• -Identify their “Top 10” areas for improvement
• -Master high-impact topics that boost scores
• -Learn time-saving strategies and proven test-taking techniques
• -Gain confidence and reduce test anxiety
• -Increase their chances of admission into more colleges and universities
• -Qualify for more merit-based scholarships that make college more affordable
  

What’s Included in Each Course?

Every Class 101 test prep course is designed to be interactive, practical, and personal. Each course includes:

• -6 hours of live instruction from a test prep expert
• -A study guide to reinforce learning
• -Interactive practice quizzes
• -Personalized practice worksheets targeting areas for improvement

Students don’t just sit and listen; they actively engage, practice, and walk away with tools they can immediately apply on test day.When To Test 

For most students, Junior year is the ideal time to focus on testing. If your student has completed Algebra II, we recommend registering for two tests back-to-back — for example, the October and November SAT, or the October and December ACT.

Why? Taking tests close together allows students to build on their momentum, compare results, and even benefit from a “superscore” (when colleges combine your best section scores across test dates).

Reach Out Today

A strong test score doesn’t just make college applications more competitive – it can save your family thousands of dollars in scholarships. Investing in prep now is one of the best steps you can take toward your child’s future.

Randy Stegemoller

Class 101 Owner + College Advisor