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Test-Optional Admissions

Information for Students & Families

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SAT & ACT Testing Is Now Optional at Many Colleges

Most Washington colleges are not requiring high school seniors to take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT for fall 2021 admission. While COVID-19 has led to this increased flexibility, many colleges are making their test-optional policies permanent.

Some colleges require an alternative in place of test scores, such as a letter of recommendation, participation in dual credit courses, or success in certain high school classes. Requirements vary by campus but are generally similar by type:

• None of Washington’s public four-year colleges will require SAT or ACT scores for fall 2021 freshman admission, and most will remain test-optional in future years.
• Washington’s private, not-for-profit four-year colleges offer test-optional pathways, although a few require test scores for students who were home-schooled or received non-standard grades.
• Public two-year community and technical colleges are open access, so anyone with a high school diploma or GED can apply and attend. Test scores are not considered.

So, should students still take the SAT or ACT? There are private scholarships that take test scores into account. And while some test-optional colleges won’t look at test scores, others will consider them if submitted. In that case, not testing won’t hurt, but good scores could help. Always check with each college directly for the latest admissions information.

It’s not too late to decide on education after high school. Learn more and plan your future on the Washington Student Achievement Council website.

Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) sends regular messages to our partners and stakeholders with resources and information about college planning, financial aid, and more. Feel free to use this content—as-is or edited for your audience—in emails, newsletters, social media, or other materials. No attribution is necessary.