Should I take an SAT or ACT test?

With varying policies across institutions, the answer might surprise you. Here are a few factors to consider when making a decision that is right for you.

Understanding Admission Policies

Colleges have different policies regarding standardized tests. It's crucial to know which category each college on your list falls into:

Test-Required: In this category, colleges mandate SAT or ACT scores for admission. 

Examples include:

• Brown
• Yale
• Dartmouth
• Georgetown
• MIT
• Purdue
• Stanford
• University of Texas at Austin
• Public universities in states such as Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Alabama

Test-Optional or Test-Flexible: Some colleges allow students to decide whether to submit test scores.  This policy often means that while scores are not mandatory, they can still play a significant role in admissions.

Test-Blind: These institutions do not consider test scores, even if submitted. Websites like FairTest.org are valuable resources for the latest information on which colleges fall into this category.

When deciding whether to submit test scores, dig deeper with these questions:

• What is the admission rate for students who submitted scores versus those who did not?
• Are the scores taken from applicants, admitted students, or enrolled students?
• Is the data broken down by application type (Early Action, Early Decision, Regular Admission)?
• Does the data vary for in-state versus out-of-state applicants?
• How do scores impact admission for specific majors?

Check each school's mid-50% scores published in the Common Data Set to understand where you stand.

Special Circumstances: Beyond acceptances, there are a couple of special circumstances that may influence your decision.  

Auto-Admission: Some colleges offer auto-admission or assured admission based on SAT or ACT scores, regardless of GPA. Examples include:

• Arizona State University
• University of Nevada at Reno
• University of Kansas
• University of Houston
• Mississippi State University
• Oklahoma State University

Maximizing Scholarships: High test scores can significantly boost scholarship opportunities. Some outside scholarships require test scores.

In conclusion, deciding whether to take standardized tests is a personal choice that depends on your college list, intended major, and scholarship goals. By understanding the nuances of each college's policy and preparing effectively, you can make the best decision for your academic future.