Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by II Editor
The process of applying to university has evolved significantly in recent years, with many institutions adopting test-optional policies. If you are an applicant wondering whether to submit your ACT scores to a test-optional school, you are not alone. This decision can impact your application strength, scholarship opportunities, and even your confidence in the admissions process. Understanding how universities evaluate ACT scores and how test-optional policies function will help you make an informed choice.
In this guide, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of submitting your ACT scores, how test-optional policies work, and key considerations that can influence your decision. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of the best course of action for your unique circumstances.
Understanding Test-Optional Policies
What Does Test-Optional Mean?
A test-optional policy allows applicants to decide whether to submit standardised test scores, such as the ACT or SAT, as part of their university application. This means that students who choose not to submit scores will not be penalised, and their applications will be evaluated based on other criteria such as GPA, coursework, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Why Have Schools Adopted Test-Optional Policies?
Many universities have shifted towards test-optional policies due to concerns about standardised testing fairness. Research indicates that test scores can be influenced by socioeconomic factors, access to test preparation resources, and even test-day anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the test-optional movement, as many students faced difficulties in accessing test centres. Today, an increasing number of institutions recognise that students can demonstrate academic excellence and potential through other aspects of their application.
Pros of Submitting Your ACT Scores
1. Strengthening Your Application
If you have a strong ACT score that aligns with or exceeds the university’s average accepted range, submitting it can enhance your application. Universities still consider high test scores a positive factor in evaluating academic preparedness, especially for competitive programmes.
2. Increasing Your Chances for Scholarships
Many universities and external scholarship providers use ACT scores to determine merit-based financial aid. Some institutions automatically award scholarships to students who meet certain ACT score thresholds. If you are seeking financial assistance, submitting a high ACT score could be beneficial.
3. Demonstrating Academic Readiness
If your GPA is slightly lower or you have weaker coursework, a high ACT score can serve as additional evidence of your academic capabilities. This is especially important if you are applying to a competitive programme where every aspect of your application matters.
4. Standing Out in a Competitive Pool
Even though a school is test-optional, a strong ACT score can still give you a competitive edge. In a pool of applicants who have similar GPAs and extracurriculars, your score might help you distinguish yourself.
5. Meeting Specific Programme Requirements
Some universities, while test-optional overall, may require ACT scores for specific programmes such as engineering, business, or nursing. Additionally, certain schools may recommend submitting scores for placement into higher-level courses or honours programmes.
Cons of Submitting Your ACT Scores
1. Low Scores Could Weaken Your Application
If your ACT score is below the middle 50% range of admitted students at a particular university, submitting it might hurt your application. In this case, it may be better to focus on highlighting your strengths through essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendations.
2. Overemphasis on Standardised Testing
Some students perform exceptionally well in coursework but struggle with standardised tests. If your ACT score does not reflect your true academic abilities, it might be wise to apply without submitting it and allow the admissions team to focus on other aspects of your application.
3. Additional Stress and Preparation
If you are planning to retake the ACT to improve your score, consider whether the time and effort required are worthwhile. If your target schools truly do not require ACT scores, you might be better off dedicating your efforts to other components of your application.
4. Schools May Not Heavily Weigh Test Scores
At some test-optional institutions, ACT scores play a minimal role in the admissions process. If a university explicitly states that test scores are not a major factor, submitting them may not significantly influence your chances of admission.
Key Considerations When Making Your Decision
1. Research the School’s Middle 50% ACT Score Range
Most universities provide data on the ACT score range of admitted students. If your score falls within or above this range, submitting it could be advantageous. If your score is significantly lower, it may be better to withhold it.
2. Check the School’s Specific Policies
Some universities may have a “test-preferred” or “test-flexible” policy rather than being fully test-optional. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in making an informed decision.
3. Assess Your Overall Application Strength
If you have strong grades, leadership experience, and compelling essays, your application may already be competitive without test scores. However, if you feel an ACT score would reinforce your strengths, submitting it could be a strategic move.
4. Consider Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities
Since some universities require ACT scores for merit-based scholarships, check the eligibility criteria before deciding not to submit your scores.
5. Look at Programme-Specific Requirements
Certain departments or majors may have different expectations regarding standardised test scores. Always verify whether your intended field of study has specific guidelines regarding ACT submissions.
Making the Final Decision: A Step-by-Step Approach
- Gather Information: Research your target schools’ test-optional policies, median ACT scores, and scholarship requirements.
- Evaluate Your Score: Compare your ACT score against the middle 50% range of admitted students.
- Assess Your Application Strengths: If you have a strong GPA, extracurriculars, and essays, omitting your ACT score may not hurt your chances.
- Consider Financial Aid Implications: Determine whether submitting your ACT score makes you eligible for additional scholarships.
- Make a Confident Decision: If submitting your ACT score strengthens your application, go for it. If it does not, trust that test-optional policies exist to support students in showcasing their best attributes.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to submit your ACT scores to a test-optional school is a personal choice that should be based on careful research and self-assessment. A strong ACT score can enhance your application, increase scholarship opportunities, and set you apart from other applicants. However, if your score does not reflect your academic potential, test-optional policies provide the flexibility to highlight other aspects of your profile.
Ultimately, the best decision is the one that aligns with your strengths and maximises your chances of admission. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently determine the best approach for your university applications. No matter your choice, remember that universities look at the whole student, and a well-rounded, compelling application can lead to success—whether or not you submit your ACT scores.
