Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by NAMS Editor
In recent years, many universities and colleges have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit their ACT (or SAT) scores as part of their application. This shift has left many applicants wondering: “Should I submit my ACT scores to test-optional schools?”
The answer isn’t always straightforward. While some students may benefit from submitting strong scores, others might find that withholding their results could work in their favour. Understanding how test-optional policies work, evaluating your academic profile, and considering the impact on scholarships and admissions can help you make an informed decision.
This guide will break down the key factors to consider when deciding whether to submit your ACT scores, helping you navigate the admissions process with confidence.
Understanding Test-Optional Admissions
Before diving into whether you should submit your ACT scores, it’s crucial to understand what test-optional admissions mean.
What Does “Test-Optional” Mean?
A test-optional policy means that a college does not require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. Instead, other factors—such as GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation—take centre stage in evaluating applicants.
However, test-optional does not mean test-blind. Schools that are test-blind do not consider test scores at all, even if submitted. In contrast, test-optional schools will review your ACT scores if you choose to provide them.
Why Have Schools Gone Test-Optional?
Many universities have adopted test-optional policies for the following reasons:
- Equity and Accessibility – Standardised tests have been criticised for favouring students with access to expensive prep courses.
- COVID-19 Pandemic – Test centre closures led schools to temporarily waive testing requirements, with many making the change permanent.
- Holistic Admissions Approach – Many institutions now place greater emphasis on personal achievements, coursework difficulty, and recommendations rather than just a test score.
Now that you understand what test-optional means, let’s explore whether submitting your ACT scores is the right choice for you.
Should You Submit Your ACT Scores? Key Factors to Consider
Submitting ACT scores can be beneficial in some cases but unnecessary in others. Here are the key factors to evaluate:
1. How Strong Are Your ACT Scores?
A general rule of thumb is:
- Submit your scores if they are at or above the school’s middle 50% range.
- Consider withholding them if they are significantly below this range.
The middle 50% ACT range represents the scores of the middle half of admitted students. For example, if a university’s middle 50% ACT range is 28-32, submitting a 33 or higher could strengthen your application, while a 24 might weaken it.
To find this range, check the university’s admissions page or use resources like the Common Data Set or College Board’s BigFuture.
2. The Selectivity of the College
For highly selective schools (Ivy League, top-tier universities), test scores can still play a significant role in admissions. If your ACT score is competitive, submitting it could help your application stand out.
For moderately selective or less competitive schools, factors like GPA, personal statement, and extracurriculars might carry more weight, making ACT scores less necessary.
3. Your Academic Profile and GPA
If you have a strong GPA (3.8 or higher), rigorous coursework (AP, IB, honours), and impressive extracurriculars, you might not need an ACT score to showcase your strengths.
However, if your GPA is slightly lower, a high ACT score could help balance your academic profile.
4. Scholarships and Financial Aid Considerations
Many universities and external scholarship providers still use ACT scores to determine merit-based scholarships. If submitting your ACT score could qualify you for additional financial aid, it may be in your best interest to do so.
Check the scholarship criteria for each school to determine whether your ACT score could boost your financial aid opportunities.
5. Does the School Have Specific Programme Requirements?
Some test-optional schools may still require ACT scores for certain programmes, particularly competitive majors like:
- Engineering
- Business
- Health Sciences (Nursing, Pre-Med, etc.)
Even at test-optional schools, some scholarships or honours programmes may require ACT scores for consideration.
The Pros and Cons of Submitting Your ACT Scores
Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of submitting your ACT scores to test-optional schools.
✅ Pros of Submitting Your ACT Scores
- Strengthens Your Application – A high ACT score can showcase academic ability, especially if your GPA is lower.
- Qualifies You for Scholarships – Many schools offer merit-based aid based on test scores.
- Boosts Chances for Competitive Programmes – Certain majors or honours programmes favour applicants with strong test scores.
- Shows Standardised Test Strength – Some schools still value test scores as an indicator of college readiness.
❌ Cons of Submitting Your ACT Scores
- Low Scores Could Hurt Your Application – If your score is below the school’s average, it might work against you.
- Test Anxiety or Poor Test Performance – Some students excel in coursework but struggle with timed standardised tests.
- Better to Focus on Other Aspects – If you have outstanding extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation, submitting a lower score could be unnecessary.
How to Decide: A Step-by-Step Approach
If you’re still unsure, follow this simple step-by-step process to determine whether submitting your ACT scores is the right choice:
Step 1: Research the Middle 50% ACT Range
- Look up the average ACT scores of admitted students at your target school.
Step 2: Compare Your ACT Score
- Above 75th percentile? Submit it.
- Below 25th percentile? Withhold it.
- In the middle 50%? Consider other factors like your GPA and extracurriculars.
Step 3: Check Scholarship and Programme Requirements
- Verify whether ACT scores are required for scholarships or specific majors.
Step 4: Assess Your Overall Application Strength
- If your GPA, extracurriculars, and essays are strong, you may not need an ACT score.
Step 5: Make an Informed Decision
- Submit only if your ACT score adds value to your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. If I Don’t Submit My ACT Scores, Will It Hurt My Chances?
No. At test-optional schools, applicants are not penalised for not submitting test scores. However, a strong ACT score could provide an edge.
2. What If My ACT Score Is Low But I Still Want to Submit It?
If your score is below the middle 50% range, it’s best to rely on other strengths, such as your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.
3. Can I Change My Mind After Applying?
Some schools allow applicants to submit scores after applying, but policies vary. Check with the admissions office.
4. Are There Any Schools That Are Completely Test-Blind?
Yes, some schools do not consider ACT or SAT scores at all, even if submitted. Examples include the University of California (UC) system.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to submit your ACT scores to test-optional schools depends on several factors, including your score strength, the school’s selectivity, GPA, and scholarship opportunities. If your score enhances your application, submit it. If not, focus on other areas of your application to showcase your strengths.
By researching college admissions data and assessing your overall academic profile, you can make a well-informed decision that maximises your chances of acceptance and financial aid opportunities.
Still unsure? Reach out to college admissions counsellors or use online tools to evaluate your application’s competitiveness.
Good luck with your college applications!
