When to submit scores and when to go without
This question hits every family applying to test-optional schools. You've heard that "optional" might not mean what it sounds like. You're wondering if not submitting scores hurts your chances, or if submitting mediocre scores makes things worse.
Here's the strategic truth: The decision isn't just about whether your scores are "good enough." It's about how scores fit into your overall application story.
Over 1,800 colleges
are now test-optional
80%
of top liberal arts colleges
Most state university systems
(with some exceptions)
Many highly selective universities
(though not all Ivies)
Scores not considered if not submitted
May substitute other assessments (AP scores, SAT Subject Tests)
Scores not considered even if submitted
Policy may change year to year
Important reality: Even at test-optional schools, submitting strong scores can still provide advantages.
Your scores are at or above the school's middle 50% range
Check the school's most recent data (not outdated guidebooks)
Look at enrolled student averages, not just admitted students
Remember that middle 50% means 25% of students scored lower
Lower GPA but strong test scores can show academic potential
Inconsistent grades but consistent test performance
Weak performance in one subject but strong test section scores
Grade inflation concerns at your high school
Many merit scholarships still require test scores
Automatic scholarship thresholds often use test scores + GPA
Competitive scholarships may favor applicants with scores
State merit programs often have testing requirements
High-achieving applicants from competitive areas
Students from well-resourced schools where high scores are expected
Applicants to highly competitive programs within universities
International students competing in a global pool
More than 100 SAT points below the 25th percentile
More than 3 ACT points below the 25th percentile
Scores don't reflect your academic ability due to test anxiety
Multiple test attempts show no significant improvement
Exceptional GPA and course rigor that speaks for itself
Outstanding extracurricular achievements that define your application
Compelling personal story that test scores might overshadow
Unique talents or background that matter more than test performance
Arts programs where portfolios matter most
Athletic recruitment where performance trumps test scores
Community colleges focused on access and opportunity
Schools with holistic admissions that emphasize fit over stats
3.6 GPA and 1420 SAT applying to University of Rochester (middle 50% SAT: 1370-1480)
Submit the score: it's in range and shows her academic potential despite the moderate GPA
3.9 GPA and 1380 SAT applying to engineering programs where the average is 1450+
Submit the score: while below average for engineering, it's still solid and his GPA is strong
3.4 GPA from a grade-deflated school and 1350 SAT applying to liberal arts colleges
Submit the score: it helps explain that her academic ability is stronger than her GPA suggests
4.0 GPA in AP courses but 1180 SAT applying to test-optional liberal arts colleges
Go test-optional: his academic record speaks much more strongly than his test score
3.7 GPA, founded a nonprofit, and scored 1250 SAT applying to schools where the average is 1400+
Go test-optional: her leadership and impact story is more compelling than test scores
3.8 GPA, plays violin at conservatory level, and scored 1290 SAT applying to music programs
Go test-optional: his musical talent and audition matter far more than standardized tests
Find current data: Common Data Set (most accurate source)
Check school's admissions website (updated annually)
Verify college guidebooks (but check dates)
Ask at admissions information sessions (direct questions)
What percentage of admitted students submitted scores?
What are the middle 50% ranges for submitted scores?
Do merit scholarships require test scores?
How does the school describe its test-optional policy?
At or above 75th percentile: Definitely submit
50th-75th percentile: Probably submit
25th-50th percentile: Consider carefully
Below 25th percentile: Probably don't submit
How do your scores compare to school averages?
Do your GPA and test scores align?
Are both metrics below average for this school?
What are your strongest application components?
Over-represented groups often better to submit scores
Under-represented groups have more flexibility
School context matters (competitive vs. under-resourced)
Geographic and cultural factors play a role
Are you from an over-represented demographic?
Does your school typically send students to this college?
Are you competing in a particularly competitive pool?
Do you have compelling life circumstances?
Strong applications without scores need exceptional other components
Applications that benefit from scores may be more standard
Consider the story your application tells overall
Think about how scores fit your narrative
Is your application exceptional without scores?
Do you need scores to demonstrate academic readiness?
What story does your application tell?
How do scores fit your overall narrative?
Scores significantly strengthen your application
Scores likely help more than hurt
Depends on other application factors
Scores likely hurt more than help
Many merit scholarships still require scores
Automatic scholarships often use GPA + test score formulas
State merit programs (Bright Futures, HOPE) usually require testing
National Merit requires PSAT/SAT scores
Check each school's scholarship requirements specifically
Ask admissions offices about test-optional and merit aid
Consider the financial impact of potentially missing scholarships
Calculate whether score submission is worth potential aid
Honors colleges within universities often still prefer scores
Direct admission to professional programs may require scores
Accelerated degree programs typically want scores
Research programs and special tracks may have requirements
Ask if honors programs require test scores even if general admission doesn't
Check for separate requirements for competitive majors
Research scholarship competition requirements
Investigate study abroad or special opportunity programs
Take challenging courses and maintain strong grades
Show consistent performance across multiple years
Demonstrate mastery in core academic subjects
Include advanced coursework (AP, IB, dual enrollment)
Show leadership and meaningful involvement
Demonstrate long-term commitment to activities
Highlight impact and achievements in your areas
Quality over quantity in activity selection
Tell compelling stories that reveal character
Show growth and reflection in your experiences
Demonstrate fit with the school's values and culture
Let your authentic voice come through clearly
Get strong endorsements from teachers who know you well
Choose recommenders who can speak to different aspects
Provide context and information to your recommenders
Follow up appropriately and express gratitude
Trying too hard to justify not submitting scores
Mentioning test anxiety or testing struggles in essays
Loading up on activities to distract from missing scores
Being defensive about the test-optional choice
Assuming lower standards at test-optional schools
Not strengthening other components sufficiently
Applying only to reaches without realistic targets
Ignoring merit scholarship implications
Scores are at or above school's 50th percentile
You need merit scholarships that require scores
You're applying to competitive programs within schools
Your scores compensate for weaker application areas
You're from over-represented demographics in competitive pools
Scores are significantly below school averages
Your application is stronger without scores
You have exceptional achievements in other areas
Test scores don't reflect your true academic ability
You're applying to programs that value other factors more
Test-optional doesn't mean test-irrelevant. The decision to submit or withhold scores should be strategic, based on how they fit into your overall application narrative and competitive position.
Remember: The goal is to present the strongest possible application. Sometimes that means submitting scores, sometimes it means going without them. Make the choice that best serves your overall application strategy.
Most important insight: Students who make strategic, research-based decisions about test submission typically have better admission outcomes than those who decide based on fear or assumptions.
CollegeCompass provides personalized test-optional strategy guidance, school research support, and application optimization to maximize your admission success.
Get expert help navigating test-optional decisions and building the strongest possible application for your target schools.