With so many colleges adopting test-optional or test-blind policies, many students are getting lost within all the different requirements (and non-requirements). That’s why, we’ve created a list of the 20 most popular colleges that our MEK students have applied to over the past three years. The list shows their updated testing policies for the 2020-2021 application cycle.
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Test-Optional
Almost all of the above schools are test-optional. This means they will accept and consider test scores if you submit them, but they do not require it. If a school is test-optional, we highly recommend you take and submit test scores if possible. It will be a distinct advantage to your application. (Find out why here.)
Even if a college is test-optional, make sure to double check the school’s detailed testing policies. For selective programs, such as honors programs and accelerated medical/law programs, many schools are still requiring testing.
Test-Flexible
Test-flexible colleges are basically test-optional schools that highly recommend submitting test scores. While you have the option to not submit test scores, they would prefer you do.
Test-Required
Schools that historically place high emphasis on testing have maintained their testing requirement, which simply means you must submit test scores.
Test-Blind
Test-blind is when a school “does not consider” your test scores. They will NOT review scores or factor it into their admission decision. So there is no reason to submit them.
Notice, a couple of the above schools do not consider SAT Subject tests. However, all 20 colleges do consider your SAT/ACT scores.
Next Steps
If any of the above colleges are on your college list, you should plan on taking the SAT or ACT.
However, because of COVID-19, this may not be possible for some students. If that’s the case, we suggest applying to colleges that have a “test-optional” policy and looking for ways to make other parts of your application shine.
Want help? Call 855-346-1410 or contact us here to set up a consultation with an expert college admissions counselor!
