Testing

The role of standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT, has had many changes since the pandemic. There have been many issues with access, dates being cancelled as well as the ability to safely test. As a response, the vast majority of colleges and universities have waived standardized testing as a requirement, and have now adopted either a test optional or test blind admissions process. Our UC and CSU schools have committed to dropping these tests for any piece of the admissions process. 

Additionally, most other schools have also announced that the test will not be a requirement, and a current list that continues to update can be found at fairtest.org .

What does this mean for students? My perspective is that it is a wonderful change, truly empowering the choice of the student to choose to submit a score, or not submit. When a score is a strengthening representation of academic ability, it may be worthwhile to include. When this testing does not feel representative or beneficial, a student can choose to not submit a score, or not test at all. Please know that when you do not submit a score, the implication is not that anything is missing, rather the college will do a qualitative analysis of the other application pieces, and weigh those a bit heavier.

Colleges do look at GPA, coursework, extracurricular, volunteers and paid work, essays, sports, clubs, portfolios, among many other things, and this may more accurately paint a picture of what a student from Tamalpais can add to a college campus. 

We also work with Compass Education Group to offer mock ACT and SAT exams. Please click here to find the mock test dates and registration deadlines.

Lastly, every year we offer a presentation about Navigating the testing process, via webinar. To view the recording from November 20th  , please see below or click here