According to Inside Higher Ed, the demand for college tests remains high in spite of the fact that most schools have opted to go test-optional this year. Even those who do sit for either (or both) tests might have further optional sections. While the writing test on both exams is technically optional (and not at all required at most top-ranked universities) some schools still do require students to submit them, while others would consider them as supplemental material. Some, like the UC schools, won’t look at them at all. Naturally, the pandemic is changing everything.
First, Pick Your Test
But before we get into all of that, it’s important to talk about which test you intend to take. We don’t recommend taking both. It’s a waste of your time and your money. The SAT and ACT do have some differences. The SAT has a section for math, reading, and writing, along with an essay section. The ACT, on the other hand, has reading, English, science reasoning, and math, with a writing test. Both tests are about the same in length. To figure out which one is better for you, we recommend taking a practice test of each and seeing where you get the higher score. Don’t look back and keep studying and practicing until you’re consistently acing your homework and practice exams.
The Skinny on the Test Option
Most schools do not require students to submit the essay portion for the SAT or ACT. In fact, this year, schools from Harvard to Michigan said they will no longer require writing tests. Schools have said these exams are cost-prohibitive, harkening to decades-old arguments that standardized testing in general favors economically advantaged students and punishes low-income applicants who can’t afford private tutoring.
Our Two Cents
As we mentioned earlier, many schools will still consider the essay portion of either exam. Regardless, we at The Koppelman Group feel that nothing is optional. We’ve said it before and—even in a pandemic year—we’ll say it again. You should write the essay. it doesn’t really matter in the end if it is optional. It can’t hurt. Consider that each part of the application is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know your personality. The ACT/SAT essay is no different. It’s also an opportunity to either show off your writing skills, appeal to a writing-intensive program, or demonstrate improvement in the area of writing if you had low grades in English in your early high school days.
Need help deciding which standardized test is right for you? Reach out to us here. We’re great at helping students tailor their application process to meet their needs.