Standardized Tests: Understanding SAT, ACT, and Test-Optional Policies

The world of standardized testing has undergone significant changes in recent years, leaving many parents unsure of how to guide their high school students. With colleges adopting test-optional policies and the SAT and ACT vying for relevance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, understanding these tests and the current admissions landscape can help you and your student make informed decisions about how to approach testing.

The SAT and ACT are designed to assess a student’s readiness for college. Both tests include sections on math and English, though they differ slightly in content and structure. The SAT, for example, emphasizes critical thinking and includes an evidence-based reading and writing section, while the ACT incorporates a science reasoning section. Both tests are widely accepted by colleges, so the choice between them often comes down to your student’s strengths and preferences.

One of the first steps in navigating standardized tests is determining whether your student needs to take them at all. In recent years, many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning students can choose whether to submit their scores. This trend gained momentum during the pandemic, when testing opportunities were limited, but it has persisted as colleges recognize that a single test score doesn’t always reflect a student’s potential. While this has reduced some of the pressure around testing, it has also introduced new complexities.

For test-optional schools, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can still provide an advantage, especially if your student’s scores are above the average for that college. Scores can also be particularly helpful for students with a lower GPA, as they can demonstrate academic ability in a different way. However, if your student struggles with standardized tests, they might focus on other parts of their application, such as essays, extracurricular activities, or letters of recommendation.

Once you’ve decided whether testing is the right path, it’s important to create a plan. Start by having your student take practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to determine which test suits them better. The SAT tends to have fewer questions with more time per question, while the ACT requires faster pacing but includes a broader range of topics. Knowing your student’s strengths can help them focus their preparation on the test where they’re more likely to excel.

Preparation is key to success, and there are many resources available to help students study effectively. Online platforms, prep books, and tutoring services offer practice questions, strategy tips, and full-length tests. Encourage your student to set a study schedule, breaking their preparation into manageable chunks to avoid burnout. Regular practice not only improves familiarity with the test format but also builds confidence, which is crucial on test day.

When it comes to timing, consider your student’s academic schedule and extracurricular commitments. Many students take the SAT or ACT for the first time in the spring of their junior year and a second time in the fall of their senior year if needed. This timeline allows for preparation while also leaving room for other priorities, such as AP exams or college applications.

It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the registration process and deadlines. Both the SAT and ACT have specific registration windows, and missing these deadlines can result in late fees or limited testing options. Additionally, be mindful of fee waivers if your family qualifies, as these can help offset the cost of testing and sending scores to colleges.

While scores are an important part of the testing process, they’re not the whole story. Colleges increasingly emphasize a holistic review of applications, considering factors such as coursework, leadership, and personal essays. This means that even if your student’s scores aren’t as high as they’d hoped, they can still present a compelling application by highlighting other strengths.

As the college admissions landscape continues to evolve, it’s worth staying informed about test-optional and test-blind policies. Test-optional means students can choose whether to submit their scores, while test-blind means scores aren’t considered at all, even if submitted. Understanding the policies of the schools your student is interested in can help you decide how much emphasis to place on testing.

Standardized testing can be a source of stress for both students and parents, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the options, creating a plan, and focusing on preparation, your student can approach the process with confidence. Remember that test scores are just one piece of the admissions puzzle, and they don’t define your student’s potential or future.

At SimpliCollege, we’re here to support families every step of the way. Whether you’re navigating test preparation or exploring test-optional strategies, we provide the tools and guidance to make the process easier. Visit SimpliCollege.com to learn how we can help your family achieve college success.