Indiana University in Bloomington and Northern Illinois University grabbed 2020 headlines for joining the expanding test-optional movement. While IU and most other test-optional schools do not require test scores, admissions officers will still consider submitted scores. Strong scores can improve a student’s admissions standing and may also influence scholarship consideration.

The test-optional movement continues to grow as educators questions the value of the SAT and ACT as a barometer for college success. Evidence points to the degree to which scores can be raised with rigorous test preparation and extended time. The movement is also fueled by colleges’ desire to attract additional applications. Colleges can improve their standings and appear more selective in various college rankings by increasing applications and providing SAT/ACT stats based on submitted scores.

Fairtest.org provides a searchable list of more than 1070 accredited colleges and universities that do not use ACT/SAT scores to admit substantial numbers of students Into bachelor-degree programs.

It’s essential to keep in remember that test-optional is not the same as test-blind.  At the more selective test-optional schools, the majority of applicants submit scores. Wake Forest, for example, which has been test-optional for more than ten years, but most applicants still submit their scores.