，有关于test-optional college applications
The college admissions process can be a stressful time for high school students across the country. Many students become overwhelmed when they have to take standardized tests, compile their application materials, and wait to hear back from universities. The process can become even more stressful if important test scores like the SAT or ACT are missing. When those tests remain elusive, many students have turned to universities that no longer require these tests when applying. Test-optional colleges are becoming an increasingly popular choice for students across the country.
Test-optional universities are not new. While some of the nation’s most prestigious universities continue to require students to submit SAT/ACTi scores for admission, there are already 272 universities in the US that are test-optional. These schools provide students the opportunity to apply without submitting standardized tests, allowing for a more holistic review of their application materials. Test-optional schools tend to place more focus on a student’s academic record, high school performance, class rank, essays and letters of recommendation.
Advocates of test-optional college argue that such a policy is beneficial for many reasons. First, it eliminates the advantage that wealthy students get from spending large amounts of time and money on prep courses and private tutors. Test-optional schools are accessible to all types of students, regardless of socio-economic background.
Also, proponents of test-optional schools say that SAT/ACT scores can be a poor predictor of college success. Test scores generally can’t measure a student’s true potential or everything that makes them successful. Test-optional schools understand that some students just aren’t good test takers and can provide them another chance to showcase their accomplishments.
While there are clear advantages to test-optional schools, there are also some drawbacks. Many universities have adopted the test-optional policy because they are seeing declining enrollment numbers, making it difficult for them to compete with more prestigious schools. Test-optional schools can also be harder to gain acceptance to compared to those schools that require standardized test scores.
In the end, test-optional colleges are a great option for those students who have trouble taking standardized tests or simply don’t want to take them. The admissions process at these schools can be an empowering experience for students who have to think creatively and find ways to showcase themselves in a different way. Test-optional colleges present a unique opportunity for students to take full control of their college applications.
