What Is a Test Score, Really?
You’ve probably heard mixed things about the SAT and ACT. Some say they don’t matter anymore. Others insist they’re still a big deal. So which is it?
The truth is: standardized test scores still play a role—especially if you're aiming for selective colleges. But instead of thinking about the SAT or ACT as just another box to check, consider them a strategic tool in your application.
Here’s what you need to know—so you can use test scores to your advantage.
1. What a Test Score Really Represents
When colleges talk about test scores, they’re referring to your results on either the SAT or ACT—national exams that measure your critical thinking, reading, writing, and math skills. If you take the ACT, there’s a science section too. These tests give colleges a common way to compare students from different schools and academic backgrounds.
Most students take one or both tests between spring of 10th grade and fall of 11th or 12th. Both exams are accepted equally—what matters is how well you perform, not which one you choose.
At Ivy Link, we always recommend starting with a diagnostic test for both the SAT and ACT. This helps you figure out which test suits your strengths, so you can focus your prep where it matters most.
2. Why Test Scores Still Matter—Even at Test-Optional Schools
You’ve probably seen that many schools are “test-optional.” That means you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores to apply—but that doesn’t mean scores don’t matter.
In fact, internal data from schools like Emory, Georgetown, and Vanderbilt shows that students who do submit strong scores are admitted at higher rates than students who don’t. Why? Because in a world where so many applicants have strong grades and great extracurriculars, test scores can help confirm your academic readiness—and make you stand out.
If you’re applying to competitive programs (think: STEM, business, pre-med), a strong test score can show you’re prepared for the rigor ahead.
3. Why Some Colleges Are Bringing Back Test Requirements
You might’ve heard that colleges like MIT, Dartmouth, Yale, Brown, and UPenn are bringing back test score requirements. That’s true—and it’s not random.
These schools say test scores help them evaluate students more fairly, especially when applicants come from high schools with different grading systems, resources, or course offerings. In other words, a strong test score can help you prove what you’re capable of—no matter where you go to school.
Even schools that remain test-optional often expect or appreciate scores from competitive applicants. Knowing this can help you approach testing with strategy instead of stress.
4. When to Start—and Why Timing Matters
If you’re serious about getting into a top school, timing is everything. Ivy Link recommends starting test prep in the spring or summer of 10th grade. That gives you enough time to build a solid foundation, improve steadily, and avoid last-minute cramming.
You’ll want to take your first official test by fall of 11th grade. That way, you’ll have time to retake the test if needed, and you’ll be ready with scores when it’s time to apply early to your top-choice schools.
Starting early also helps reduce anxiety—you’ll feel more in control, and your prep can fit around your school and extracurricular schedule.
5. Should You Submit Your Scores?
This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. And it depends on context.
If your score is at or above the average for the schools on your list, you should probably submit—it strengthens your application. But if your scores aren’t quite where you want them to be, and the rest of your application is strong, you may choose to go test-optional.
At Ivy Link, we work with students one-on-one to evaluate scores in context. We look at your school profile, course load, and target colleges to help you decide if submitting your scores gives you an edge—or not.
Need help getting started?
Join Ivy Link’s SAT/ACT Prep Workshop. In just one hour, you’ll learn how to choose the right test, build a smart timeline, and approach testing with clarity and confidence.
You don’t need to guess your way through this. You need a plan. Schedule a consultation with Ivy Link!
