Should You Apply Test-Optional? A Strategic Guide for 2025 Applicants
The college admissions landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years, and one of the most significant changes is the rise of test-optional policies. As a 2025 applicant, you may be wondering: Should I submit my SAT or ACT scores or not?
This decision can greatly influence how your application is evaluated. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most strategic choice for your college list.
What Does “Test-Optional” Really Mean?
When a school is test-optional, it means you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admission. If you choose to submit scores, they’ll be evaluated as part of your academic profile. If you don’t, admissions committees will assess you based on other factors like your GPA, coursework, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
Important: Test-optional is not the same as test-blind. Test-blind schools (like the University of California system) will not consider test scores even if you send them.
Who Should Consider Applying Test-Optional?
Not submitting test scores can be a strategic move for some students. You might consider applying test-optional if:
Your SAT or ACT score is significantly below the average for your target schools.
You have a strong GPA, rigorous course load, and compelling extracurriculars that demonstrate your academic ability.
You’re an exceptional writer and can showcase your story effectively through your personal statement and supplemental essays.
You had limited access to testing due to COVID-19, illness, or family circumstances.
Test-optional policies are meant to make the process more equitable. If standardized tests don’t accurately reflect your potential, you may benefit from omitting them.
When Should You Submit Test Scores?
You should definitely consider submitting scores if:
Your SAT or ACT scores are at or above the 50th percentile for admitted students at your target school.
You’re applying to STEM or highly competitive programs where test scores can help bolster your academic profile.
You’re homeschooled or attend a high school with an untraditional grading system and want to validate your academic ability.
Pro tip: Look up the “middle 50%” SAT/ACT range on each college’s admissions website. If your score falls in or above that range, it’s probably worth submitting.
What About Scholarships and Honors Programs?
This is where things get tricky. Some schools still require test scores for merit scholarships, special programs, or honors colleges, even if they’re test-optional for general admission. Be sure to check the fine print on each college’s financial aid page.
If a school offers significant scholarship money based on test scores and your score is competitive, it may be worth submitting just for that purpose.
How Will Going Test-Optional Impact My Chances?
Every college is different. Some elite schools report similar admission rates for students who submit and those who don’t. Others admit a higher percentage of students who submit scores. In general:
Applying test-optional won’t hurt you if the rest of your application is strong.
However, if you don’t submit scores and the rest of your application is average or inconsistent, it may be more difficult to stand out.
That’s why test-optional doesn’t mean “test-irrelevant,” your scores are still a potential strength if used strategically.
What Should 2025 Applicants Do Right Now?
Here’s a smart plan of action:
Take a practice SAT or ACT. Know your baseline.
Prep strategically if your initial score is close to your target range.
Make a list of test-optional schools. Review their test score policies carefully.
Compare your test scores to admitted student averages before deciding to submit.
Focus on the rest of your application. Essays, activities, and GPA matter more than ever.
Final Thoughts
Test-optional is a powerful tool but only if used strategically. For 2025 applicants, it’s less about whether you can submit scores and more about whether you should.
At Icon Admissions, we help students craft smart application strategies based on data, goals, and personal strengths. Whether you're going test-optional or test-submitted, we’ll help you make every part of your application shine.
Need help deciding your strategy? Join one of our free webinars or take our “Find Your Fit” quiz to see which services are best for you.