Summer is around the corner and the class of 2026 is preparing to apply to the colleges of their choice. While so many colleges have become test optional, many aren’t sure if they should submit their scores or not. 

Pros:

There are many good reasons why submitting test scores could help your college application process. If you achieved strong test results then submitting your scores could strengthen your application, especially if you have an average GPA or few extracurriculars which could offset that ‘weakness’. Another benefit to submitting scores is that if you earn an exceptional score, you may qualify for merit based scholarships. Colleges also may see standardized test scores as an applicant’s level of preparedness for the academic level college will bring. While many schools are test optional, some still require standardized test scores along with your application so depending on the school or program scores are mandatory. 

Cons: 

Submitting test scores can also have many drawbacks that could negatively impact your application process. If you don’t attain a high score, submitting it could lower your chances at select schools, especially if your mark was below average. Standardized testing also requires a lot of preparation, those who get the highest scores oftentime enroll themselves in SAT/ACT prep courses which can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. This process along with constantly retaking tests in order to earn an exceptional score is expensive and may not be feasible for all students. There are also test biases that critics argue standardized tests have, as low-income and minority students are less likely to achieve high scores. 

While submitting test scores hold both many pros and cons, ultimately, the decision is based on a student’s individual circumstances. Depending on where you are applying, submitting or not submitting your test scores could greatly impact your admission to the college of your dreams.