In a significant, albeit not unexpected, shift, several highly selective institutions have reversed course on their admissions policies by reinstating the requirement for standardized test scores in their holistic review processes. At the time of publication, the list of colleges and universities who have returned to test required admissions includes: Cornell University, Harvard College, Johns Hopkins University, Princeton University, and Stanford University.
Holistic, also known as comprehensive admissions, has garnered increased attention in the post-pandemic college admissions landscape. Essentially, holistic or comprehensive admissions refers to an approach where colleges and universities evaluate applicants beyond quantitative data such as grades, GPA, and test scores. A holistic application review considers various aspects of an applicant's background, lived experiences, identity, and personal qualities.
Undoubtedly, assessing students holistically represents a superior approach to college admissions; it allows institutions to recognize applicants' unique strengths, achievements, and potential contributions that may not be fully captured by standardized and objective metrics alone. That said, it's crucial to recognize that a holistic review process typically does not compensate for significantly weak academic numbers. In most cases, grades, and in some instances, test scores as well, still heavily influence admissions decisions and can be the gatekeepers to an in-depth application review.
Unlike institutions with test-blind admissions, such as the University of California system, those with test-optional or test-flexible policies, such as Yale University, will consider submitted test scores as part of the holistic review process. Such an approach provides applicants with the “flexibility,” to decide whether to include standardized test scores based on individual circumstances and strengths.
💡Pro tip: Always read the fine print!
How Do I Know if I Should Submit a Test Score?
Based on recent conversations with college admissions officers and ongoing data analysis, we advise students aiming to gain admission to competitive institutions to carefully weigh if and how submitting a standardized test score can strengthen an application. Essentially, individual and institutional context matter. Individually, students should consider their academic background, extracurricular involvement, and personal circumstances. Institutionally, college applicants should know the percentage of students at each institution who submitted test scores.
By considering the individual and institutional context, students will be equipped to make strategic and informed choices about the role of standardized test scores in each of their college applications. While colleges and universities may say, “You really won’t be penalized if you don’t submit a test score,” if the data indicate that a high percentage of matriculating students submitted scores, it is wise to consider that in the determination process.
How Do I Know How Many Students Submitted Test Scores to a College or University?
You probably won’t know exactly how many applicants who were subsequently admitted to an institution submitted test scores, as most do not provide that data. However, we do know from the Common Data Set (CDS), Section C-9, the number of matriculating students who submitted SAT and ACT scores. Although not a perfect data point, back-of-envelope calculations are helpful.
By way of example, by looking at the CDS, it is clear that the percentage of students matriculating who submitted test scores varies by institution. By way of example, according to New York University's CDS 2023-2024, of first-year enrolled students in fall 2023, 27% submitted an SAT score and 12% an ACT score. Although we have no way of knowing whether or not some students submitted both SAT and ACT scores, we can deduce that approximately 39% of students who joined NYU’s class of 2027 submitted a test score. Conversely, according to Duke University's CDS 2021-2022 (most recent data available), of first-year enrolled students in fall 2023, 47% submitted an SAT score and 46% an ACT score. Although we have no way of knowing whether or not some students submitted both SAT and ACT scores, we can deduce that approximately 93% of students who joined Duke’s class of 2025 submitted a test score. Bottom line, before abandoning test prep plans, college applicants should consider all available information and data.
In summary, we know that, in theory, test-optional admissions at some selective institutions are possible and, at many institutions, they will likely persist. Additionally, we believe that, particularly in test-optional situations, application volume will remain elevated, notably at highly rejective institutions, where demand is high, but supply is tight and held steady. While holistic admissions provides a more comprehensive evaluation of applicants, it's crucial for students to recognize the continued significance of academic metrics, including standardized test scores, in the admissions process. Making well-informed decisions about submitting standardized test scores can strengthen an application's competitiveness within the holistic review framework.
For more information about whether or not to submit standardized test scores in the college applications process or anything else related to college admissions, please reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.
0 Comments