{"id":1409,"date":"2026-04-03T23:48:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-03T23:48:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.class101.com\/carmelin\/?p=1409"},"modified":"2026-03-30T23:52:52","modified_gmt":"2026-03-30T23:52:52","slug":"how-college-admissions-view-test-scores-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.class101.com\/carmelin\/2026\/04\/03\/how-college-admissions-view-test-scores-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"How College Admissions View Test Scores in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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 <\/a>issuing Bachelor\u2019s 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<\/a> (FairTest).

Trend and Countertrend
<\/strong>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.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s Complicated. We\u2019re Here For You!<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Include Your Scores When Required<\/strong>
    <\/strong>It goes without saying (but we\u2019ll 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.
    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Test Optional? Put Your Best Foot Forward.<\/strong>
    <\/strong>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\u2019s 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.
    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Keep in Mind: Excellent test scores set you apart from the competition.<\/strong>
    In a scenario where you and another applicant look \u201csimilar on paper,\u201d 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.
    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Test scores may be required to obtain a scholarship or entrance into a special program.<\/strong>
    <\/strong>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.
    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Decided to Test? We\u2019ve Got You. <\/strong>
    <\/strong>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<\/a>, from decision to scheduling to preparation and practice. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    The Bottom Line<\/strong>
    Because it\u2019s difficult to verify which test-optional colleges and universities take high test scores into account in admissions decisions, it\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Prep for Success<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Class 101 can help your student obtain the best score possible on college entrance exams. [Schedule a free consultation with one of our Carmel<\/a> college advisors today.<\/p>\n\n\n

    \n
    \"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

    Upcoming Test Prep Courses at Class 101<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you planned on handing your teen a SAT Study Guide and walking away, we\u2019d advise you to save your money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    At Class 101, we\u2019ve found that a better way of getting students prepared for standardized tests is concentrated workshops<\/a> 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    We\u2019ve worked with thousands of students and families across the country, and we\u2019ve seen firsthand how a strong test score can open doors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \u2705 More college acceptances
    \u2705 Greater scholarship opportunities
    \u2705 Increased confidence heading into senior year<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    That\u2019s why we believe test prep isn\u2019t just about the test. It\u2019s about giving students the tools to succeed, reducing stress, and setting them up for the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This fall, Class 101 Carmel is offering in-person and virtual <\/strong>test prep workshops<\/strong><\/a> designed to help Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors perform their very best on upcoming exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Fall 2026 Test Prep Opportunities<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Here\u2019s what\u2019s coming up this season:<\/p>\n\n\n\n