Testing

The role of standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT, has experienced many changes. Many colleges and universities have waived standardized testing as a requirement, and have now adopted either a test optional or test blind admissions process, while other colleges have brought back a requirement to take an official exam. As an example, our UC and CSU schools do not accept or require any SAT or ACT exams as part of the admissions process. My advice is to view a  current list of test optional colleges, which can be found at fairtest.org and for your student to decide if testing is a necessary part of their application process.

What does this mean for students? For test optional schools, 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. College application evaluators look at GPA, coursework, extracurriculars, volunteer and paid work, essays, sports, clubs, portfolios, among many other things, and this may more accurately paint a picture of what a student from Redwood can add to a college campus.

Every year, we offer a presentation about Navigating the testing process, via webinar, and we will be sending out more information late fall. 

As always, I’m available to answer any questions or talk through these options.

While the shifting test policy landscape now gives students greater discretion over important testing decisions, some questions may  persist regarding the value of scores and who may benefit most from taking these exams.