Standardized testing has been debated for years, but it took a global pandemic for most schools to finally go test-optional. So what about the 20% of schools (including some of the top universities in the nation) that still require SAT scores? Should you even be applying to them?
It’s more complex than a simple yes or no. Here are a couple of things to consider.
- How did you score? – First of all, you should be taking the test anyway. Test-optional doesn’t mean you skip the test. So since you are taking the test anyway, your scores may determine if you apply to a school that requires your score. A prestigious school like MIT is going to require a higher score to make applying worthwhile. But there are plenty of schools that still require your scores that aren’t as picky.
- What schools do you want to apply to? – Don’t choose your schools based on whether or not you have to take the SAT. Base it on things like whether they have a good program in your field of study. After you choose your schools, then check to see what they require, not the other way around.
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