Test Optional Colleges

Test optional colleges are institutions that do not require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, as part of their admissions process. This allows students to choose whether to include their test results, emphasizing other factors like GPA, coursework, essays, and extracurricular activities. The goal is to increase access and reduce barriers for diverse applicants, recognizing that standardized tests may not fully reflect a student’s abilities or potential. Test optional policies can vary by school and may change over time, providing more flexibility and a broader view of a candidate’s qualifications.