Should you submit your test scores in 2025? Here’s how to decide

College admissions have shifted drastically in recent years, and one of the biggest questions on students’ minds is: Should I submit my test scores in 2025? With the rise of test-optional policies back in 2020, fewer students are taking or submitting SAT and ACT scores. But does that mean you should skip them too?

In this guide, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of submitting standardized test scores and how to make the right decision based on your unique situation.

Understanding the Current Landscape of Standardized Testing

The standardized testing landscape isn’t just evolving—it’s actively reversing course in some surprising ways. While many schools adopted test-optional policies in recent years, some have since shifted to test-required or test-recommended policies.

The Three Categories You Need to Understand:

Does Not Submitting Test Scores Hurt You?

Here’s what most families don’t realize: “test-optional” doesn’t mean “test-unimportant.” At test-optional schools:

• You’re not penalized just for not submitting scores. Admissions offices use a holistic review process—your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars still carry weight.
• However, not submitting means missing potential advantages. A strong SAT/ACT score can tip the scales, especially at selective colleges.
• At some test-optional schools, like Rice and Tufts, 70% of admitted students still submit scores.

So, while not submitting the standardized test scores won’t directly harm you, you might be disadvantaged if other applicants do submit strong scores.

When Submitting Scores Strengthens Your Application

The “Above 50th Percentile” Rule

If your SAT/ACT score is near or above the 50th percentile for admitted students at a school, submitting it’s generally a good idea. For example, a 1350 SAT score at a school with a 1200–1400 range (where 1300 is the median) will support your application.

Balancing Academic Weaknesses

Test scores can counterbalance other parts of your academic record that need support:

• GPA Recovery Stories: Struggled early on but improved? A 3.6 GPA + 1520 SAT can demonstrate upward academic growth.
• Grade Inflation: Coming from a school known for easier grading? Strong test scores help validate your GPA.
• Uneven Strengths: Stronger in verbal or math? Submit scores that highlight your strengths (e.g., 780 verbal for English majors).

Program-Specific Advantages

Certain majors still weigh test scores heavily, even at test-optional schools:

• STEM Fields: Competitive engineering, computer science and pre-med programs often expect high quantitative scores (e.g., 750+ Math SAT).
• Scholarship Opportunities: Some honors programs and full-ride scholarships still require or prefer test scores, even at test-optional schools.

How to Decide Based on Your Personal Profile

Every applicant has a unique profile, with strengths such as a high GPA or strong leadership experience, and some areas that may be less developed. Use this self-checklist to reflect on where you stand:

• GPA/Class Rank: Is your academic record strong and consistent?
• Extracurriculars: Do you have leadership roles, consistent impact, or national-level recognition?
• Essays & Recommendations: Are they powerful, personal, and persuasive?
• Test Scores: Are they in or above top 50% for your target schools?

So, should you submit your SAT/ACT test scores in 2025? It depends, but now you’re better equipped to make a decision. Admissions are no longer one-size-fits-all, and that’s actually a good thing. You have more control than ever. Focus on telling your story, playing to your strengths and using test scores strategically.

FAQs

What if my SAT scores don’t arrive by the application deadline?

If your test scores are delayed, don’t panic. Most colleges allow a short grace period as long as your application was submitted on time. You can:

1) Contact admissions to inform them that your scores are en route.

2) Self-report unofficial scores if allowed, and follow up with official ones later.

Can you submit test scores after applying?

Yes, many schools will allow you to submit scores even after the initial application. Here’s how:

1) Email the admissions office to check if they’ll still consider them.

2) Send updated scores via College Board or ACT, or self-report unofficial scores if allowed.

3) Ensure your application portal is up to date and maintain documentation for future reference.

Does not submitting standardized test scores hurt you?

Not submitting SAT/ACT test scores won’t hurt you at test-optional schools. However, it may make it harder to stand out in a competitive applicant pool if your academic record isn’t as strong.

How long does it take College Board to send SAT scores?

The standard delivery is 1–2 weeks, and the rush delivery is 2–4 business days. To be safe, take your SAT 6 weeks before your deadline.

Should I submit my test scores if they are optional?
Here are three circumstances that you should consider submitting your test scores even if the school is test-optional:

• Are in or above the top 50% of admitted students
• Strengthen and positively contribute to your academic profile
• Help with scholarship eligibility