Does the SAT Still Matter?

By Dylan Murphy, Editor-in-Chief

The short answer: yes.

Responding to the effects of the pandemic on academic performance, a record-high number of universities nationwide took to rendering SAT scores optional for student applications. Students, naturally, found themselves at a conflict: risk it all and take the test regardless, or take advantage of a rare chance to avoid a potentially dreadful score.

Currently, over nine hundred schools are still test-optional, and students have to wonder: if they don’t submit their SAT score, will they be put at a disadvantage?

While GPAs hold more weight in determining the chances of being accepted, SAT scores allow colleges to make more balanced comparisons between students of otherwise similar standing. GPAs never tell the whole story; SAT scores serve to attempt to level the playing field.

Different high schools offer different opportunities for students to take advantage of, and as a result, there tends to be imbalances between kids with access to certain programs, GPA weighting determinations, and extracurricular activities. Grade inflation rates vary across schools too, as do teachers’ expectations and severity of grading.

From the university’s perspective, their interests are in the students who they believe will succeed at their school. Colleges welcome any and all available data a student has to offer that contributes positively to that student’s application. If the SAT can only help, not hurt, it’s probably worth giving it a shot. Developing test-taking experience and better study habits along the way will also strengthen academic stock.