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The SAT Optional Essay – To Write or Not to Write

April 2, 2020

By: Jordan Salley

The SAT optional essay is a section designed to test students’ ability to write under strict time constraints. For many, this can be an intimidating concept. After all, almost every student has encountered writer’s block at some point. However, this can be a great opportunity to demonstrate your ability to communicate, create, and build an effective argument. This is a skill set that you will carry throughout your pursuit of higher-level education and is necessary in almost every industry or field.

However, this component is optional for a reason. Many colleges don’t ask to see your score and eliminating this essay out of your practice sessions saves you time, allowing you to focus more on nailing the math and reading sections. On the flipside, if you’re shooting for highly selective schools, an impressive performance on the SAT optional essay might strengthen your profile. To guide you through this component, I’ve talked more about the logistics as well as outlined the pros and cons of opting for the essay.

Let’s talk about the logistics of the SAT optional essay . Your response is graded independently and does not impact the composite score for the test. Two graders analyze the essay across three categories: reading, writing, and analysis, which are scored between one to four. They then average the score between the three graded elements, each of which ranges from two to eight. The reading section evaluates the writer’s understanding of the paragraph provided. The analysis portion assesses you on your ability to make and support claims.

The writing score depends on the clarity of the essay and language choices. You have fifty minutes total to respond to the prompt. The standard approach to writing the SAT optional essay includes:

• Reading the prompt
• Understanding the question
• Writing a thesis or central argument
• Outlining the essay
• Proofreading

The goal is to analyze how an author would build an argument based on the statement or argument listed in the prompt. Now that we’ve discussed the layout of this test, let’s dive into reasons why you should or shouldn’t consider writing this optional essay.

Why you should write the optional essay:

Reason #1: it might not actually be optional.

Over the years, the College Board has changed its policy towards the SAT writing section. With that, universities have also taken to adapting to changes in testing policy. A few programs have started requesting an alternative way to evaluate this skill (e.g. Brown and Princeton requested a graded humanities paper, Harvard will accept a written publication by a student). Though the essay is optional, many undergraduate institutions and scholarships have begun to require it. Moreover, you cannot take the essay separate from the SAT test.

If you have already secured an SAT score that you are satisfied with but realize you need the essay portion, you will have to retake the entire test. This can be a scheduling nightmare, especially as you close in on application deadlines. It is worthwhile to make a list of schools that you’re interested in attending prior to planning for your SAT so that you can look into their policies towards the optional essay. If you are looking at applying to Ivy League or top tier schools, this is almost definitely a required component of your application. Nearly every university requires essays or written exams in a freshman seminar course, so it is natural that schools want to see your writing ability to ensure you would succeed in their academic setting.

Reason #2: An opportunity to shine  

Whether you are a future Pulitzer prize winning author or someone struggling in high school English, the SAT optional essay is a component that most students can study for in order to perform well. This is an extremely technical writing exam and can easily be boiled down to a structure that can be applied to almost any prompt. The majority of test-takers are able to score between the 25 th to 75 th percentile of this portion of the exam even with a small amount of preparation.

This portion of the test is an invaluable opportunity to showcase your ability to synthesize and create within a narrow window of time. It can be used as a comparison to affirm the quality of your college admissions essays. Moreover, it evidences your ability to communicate. Communication is a skill that universities and employers look for and is generally difficult to teach.

Taking an optional section is also a great way to show that you are an individual who is willing to go above and beyond what is asked of you. As a student, this shows a concrete level of drive beyond the qualities that you have described in your admissions essays or that your teachers discussed in your recommendation letters.

Reason #3: An opportunity to overcome a deficiency  

Almost every candidate has a setback at some point in their career. For some students, it is a failed class, a bad score on the advanced placement test, or a weak grade point average. For a student who struggled in an English based course – literature, writing, or grammar – the SAT optional essay is the perfect opportunity to show growth. This section should absolutely be taken by students with a weakness in English as a way to convey to colleges that the deficiency has been overcome. It removes concern that you will not be able to keep up with writing requirements that most college freshman face. It also shows grit and determination, which are necessary skills to carry into your undergraduate education.

Reason #4: Your school requires it to super score  

Super scoring is a practice that allows college applicants to combine their most competitive section scores from multiple SAT exams. Some universities may require the SAT optional essay in order to super score. This is another factor to take into consideration when reviewing your list of schools to apply to. Super scoring can allow you to advance your application to the top of the pile statistically. If this is applicable to you, I highly recommend taking this optional section in order to secure your ability to super score.

Why you shouldn’t write the optional essay:

Reason #1: you did not prepare.

There are a number of reasons to take the SAT optional essay . However, preparing for this section of the exam does require additional time and effort. I personally recommend my students work on writing prompts multiple times throughout the week leading up to their SAT date. The more prompts a student practices writing, the easier it will be to develop an argument in a short period of time on test day. There are a number of preparation books, and a simple Google search yields a number of prompts to get you started.

Ultimately, the first time you sit down to write the SAT essay should not be on test day. This is a difficult process if you have never completed writing an essay like this in fifty minutes and could result in a poor score. If you do not have adequate time to prepare for this section or do not feel that you will perform well based on your estimated scores, I would not recommend taking it.

Reason #2: None the schools you are applying to require the SAT Essay section  

If you plan to apply to schools and scholarships that do not require the SAT optional essay , it may not be worth spending the extra money. The addition of the essay costs $14 more. Notably, this cost can be eliminated if you qualify for a fee waiver. I would not let cost be your determining factor on taking this section, but it is something to keep in mind.

While there are arguments for or against taking the optional essay section of the SAT, the pros tend to outweigh the cons. Planning on doing this section of the test sets you up on a successful timeline for college applications. Scheduling an additional test if you end up needing the essay could be a difficult and stressful process. Including the additional essay also opens opportunities to apply to schools that require it should you decide to add schools later on in the application process.

In addition, it provides you with an opportunity to overcome a deficiency such as a failed class or a low grade. It allows you to super score your tests at some institutions. Ultimately, this can be a great opportunity to shine and show undergraduate universities another skill set that makes you a desirable candidate. Strong writing abilities are applicable in almost every field or industry. The hard work in preparing for college applications will serve you well in the long run. Best of luck!

About the Author

Jordan Salley is a senior test prep instructor for MyGuru, a boutique tutoring company. For more information on SAT prep, MyGuru’s approach, and SAT tutors, visit https://www.myguruedge.com/sat-tutoring .

Tags : SAT prep , SAT tips , SAT optional essay , should i write the sat optional essay , SAT essay tips , SAT practice

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All About the SAT Optional Essay

In addition to the four required SAT sections ( Reading , Writing and Language , Math (No Calculator) and Math (Calculator)), you have the choice to opt in to a fifth section: the Essay. To learn more about what you're getting yourself into when you sign up for this additional section, read on!

SAT Essay: An Overview

The optional Essay follows the calculator-permitted Math section or a short, experimental section and is always the final portion of the exam. When you get to the Essay, you'll have 50 minutes to write one rhetorical analysis essay using the provided source text. Your essay will be graded by two human readers, who will each give three scores of 1 to 4 in three areas: Reading, Analysis, and Writing. Your score report will show the combined scores for each separate area (2 to 8), but will not provide an overall composite.

That's a lot of information to unpack, so let's start at the beginning.

If the SAT Essay Is Optional, How Do I Know If I Should Take It?

The primary reason to complete the Essay is because some schools require it for admission. Over the past few years, fewer and fewer schools have required the Essay, and the pandemic has accelerated this trend. However, there are still some schools that recommend you take the SAT Essay, and if you're applying to any of these, it's in your best interest to take (and do well on!) the Essay.

As you start your prep, check the standardized test policies for each of the schools on your list to see whether they require or recommend the SAT Essay. If none of those schools do so, and you're sure you won't be applying to any other schools, then don't take the Essay! If you don't have a list of schools locked down yet, or any of the ones you are thinking about do require or recommend the SAT Essay, then you should take it.

So, What's a Rhetorical Analysis?

The SAT Essay task is to write a "rhetorical analysis" of a given text. This means that you need to explain how the author of the provided text makes her or his argument: What are the elements that contribute to the persuasiveness of the argument, and how do those elements affect the audience? You may have encountered this type of writing before, especially if you've taken AP English Language and Composition (one of the Free Response Questions on that test is very similar to the SAT Essay prompt).

Notably, this task does not require you to give your opinion on the writing in front of you; in fact, the College Board explicitly want you to avoid giving your opinion! Focus on analyzing the devices that the author uses and keep your opinion out of it!

What's up With the Three Scores?

Here's the short and sweet version of all three scores you'll get on the SAT Essay:

• Reading: How accurately you describe the main idea of the text, the major lines of reasoning and the context of the text.
• Analysis: Whether you can 1) identify devices used by the author of the text, 2) describe the impact of those devices on the audience, and 3) tie that impact to how the device makes the author's overall argument more compelling.
• Writing: How well-written your essay is, from the micro-level (grammar and word choice) to the overall structure of your essay.

There is no composite Essay score, as the College Board maintains that colleges should consider the three different scores separately. It's hard to tell exactly which scores the schools you apply to will value most, although it does seem as if the Writing score is the most varyingly used, with some ignoring it. It's still a good idea to aim for top marks in each category, and you can visit the College Board website to learn more about what earns high scores in each field.

Just like the rest of the SAT, the optional Essay is a test for which you can prepare. Pick up a copy of our book, SAT Prep , for access to practice tests and study tips, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for new, weekly content to help you reach your top SAT score.

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SAT Discontinues Subject Tests And Optional Essay

Elissa Nadworny

Eda Uzunlar

Updated at 5:03 p.m. ET

The College Board announced on Tuesday that it will discontinue the optional essay component of the SAT and that it will no longer offer subject tests in U.S. history, languages and math, among other topics. The organization, which administers the college entrance exam in addition to several other tests, including Advanced Placement exams, will instead focus efforts on a new digital version of the SAT.

In the announcement, the organization cited the coronavirus pandemic for these changes: "The pandemic accelerated a process already underway at the College Board to reduce and simplify demands on students."

College entrance exams have had a hard go of it during the pandemic. Many in-person testing dates for the SAT were canceled because of social distancing needs and closed high school buildings; a previous digital version of the SAT was scrapped in June after technical difficulties; and hundreds of colleges have removed the exam from admissions requirements , in some cases permanently.

Few colleges require the optional writing portion of the SAT or the subject tests, though students can still submit them to supplement their college applications. The AP exams have become far more important in demonstrating mastery of subjects and, in some cases, providing college credit.

The Coronavirus Crisis

Colleges are backing off sat, act scores — but the exams will be hard to shake.

"Removing the subject tests can remove a barrier for students," says Ashley L. Bennett, director of college counseling at KIPP Sunnyside High School in Houston. But, she adds, "I believe that standardized testing in general needs to be less emphasized in the college search process."

Elizabeth Heaton advises families about college admissions at College Coach in Watertown, Mass. She thinks the changes could help put some students on a more level playing field. "For students who aren't getting great advising, it is nice to see that they haven't been eliminated from competition just by virtue of not having a test that they may not have known about."

But Catalina Cifuentes, who works to promote college access in Riverside County, east of Los Angeles, has reservations. She worries that removing the SAT subject tests will create more barriers for her students, rather than less.

"Hundreds of my students take the subject tests in Spanish and other languages because it provides them an opportunity to show their understanding of a second language," explains Cifuentes.

Many of her students speak a second language at home and would be the first in their family to go to college.

She says her college-bound students often enroll in the University of California and California State University systems, which both require two years of coursework in another language for admission. The SAT foreign-language tests sometimes filled that requirement, but the removal of these exams means Cifuentes will have to shift gears.

"We will need to work closely with our world language teachers to expand on ideas ... for students who already read, write and speak another language," she says.

Her job is all about helping school districts adapt to decisions from colleges and organizations like the College Board, Cifuentes explains.

"Every decision they discuss — there's real repercussions. There's no right or wrong decision, but with everything they do, it should be students first."

Eda Uzunlar is an intern on NPR's Education Desk.

Correction Jan. 20, 2021

A previous version of this story misspelled Ashley L. Bennett's name.

What Is the SAT?

Learn About the SAT and Its Role in the College Admissions Process

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The SAT is a standardized test administered by the College Board, a non-profit organization that runs other programs including the PSAT (Preliminary SAT), AP (Advanced Placement) and CLEP (College-Level Examination Project). The SAT along with the ACT are the primary entrance exams used by colleges and universities in the United States.

The SAT and the Problem of "Aptitude"

The letters SAT originally stood for the Scholastic Aptitude Test. The idea of "aptitude," one's natural ability, was central to the exam's origins. The SAT was supposed to be an exam that tested one's abilities, not one's knowledge. As such, it was supposed to be an exam for which students could not study, and it would provide colleges with a useful tool for measuring and comparing the potential of students from different schools and backgrounds.

The reality, however, was that students could indeed prepare for the exam and that the test was measuring something other than aptitude. Not surprisingly, the College Board changed the name of the exam to the Scholastic Assessment Test, and later to the SAT Reasoning Test. Today the letters SAT stand for nothing at all. In fact, the evolution of the meaning of "SAT" highlights many of the problems associated with the exam: it's never been entirely clear what it is that the test measures.

The SAT competes with the ACT, the other widely used exam for college admissions in the United States. The ACT, unlike the SAT, has never focused on the idea of "aptitude." Instead, the ACT tests what students have learned in school. Historically, the tests have been different in meaningful ways, and students who do poorly on one might do better on the other. In recent years, the ACT surpassed the SAT as the most widely used college admissions entrance exam. In response to both its loss of market share and criticisms about the very substance of the exam, the SAT launched an entirely redesigned exam in the spring of 2016. If you were to compare the SAT to the ACT today, you'd find that the exams are much more similar than they had been historically.

What Is on the SAT?

The current SAT covers three required areas and the optional essay:

• Reading: Test-takers answer questions about passages they read. All questions are multiple choice and based on the passages. Some questions will also ask about tables, graphs, and charts, but no math is required to answer the questions. Total time for this section: 65 minutes.
• Writing and Language:  Test-takers read passages and then are asked to identify and fix mistakes and weaknesses in the language. Total time for this section: 35 minutes.
• Mathematics:  Test-takers answer questions related to the types of math you're likely to encounter in college and your personal life. Topics include algebra, data analysis, working with complex equations, and some basics of trigonometry and geometry. Some questions allow the use of a calculator; some do not. Total time for this section: 80 minutes.
• Optional Essay:  The optional essay exam asks you to read a passage and then make an argument based on that passage. You'll need to support your argument with evidence from the passage. Total time for this section: 50 minutes.

Unlike the ACT, the SAT does not have a section focused on science.

How Much Time Does the Exam Take?

The SAT exam takes a total of 3 hours without the optional essay. There are 154 questions, so you'll have 1 minute and 10 seconds per question (by comparison, the ACT has 215 questions and you'll have 49 seconds per question). With the essay, the SAT takes 3 hours and 50 minutes.

How Is the SAT Scored?

Prior to March, 2016, the exam was scored out of 2400 points: 200-800 points for Critical Reading, 200-800 points for Mathematics, and 200-800 points for Writing. An average score had been roughly 500 points per subject area for a total of 1500.

With the redesign of the exam in 2016, the Writing section is now optional, and the exam is scored out of 1600 points (as it had been back before the Writing section had become a required component of the exam). You can earn 200 to 800 points for the Reading/Writing section of the exam, and 800 points for the Math section. A perfect score on the current exam is a 1600, and you'll find that most successful applicants to the country's most selective colleges and universities have scores in the 1400 to 1600 range.

When Is the SAT Offered?

The SAT is currently administered seven times a year: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. If you're wondering when to take the SAT , the August, October, May, and June dates are the most popular — many students take the exam once in the spring of junior year, and then again in August or October of senior year. For seniors, the October date is often the last exam that will be accepted for early decision and early action applications. Be sure to plan ahead and check SAT test dates and registration deadlines . 

Note that prior to the 2017-18 admissions cycle, the SAT was not offered in August, and there was a January test date. The change was a good one: August gives seniors an attractive option, and January wasn't a popular date for juniors or seniors.

Do You Need to Take the SAT?

No. Nearly all colleges will accept the ACT instead of the SAT. Also, many colleges recognize that a high-pressure timed exam is not the best measure of an applicant's potential. In truth, studies of the SAT have shown that the exam predicts a student's family income far more accurately than it predicts his or her future college success. Over 850 colleges now have test-optional admissions , and the list keeps growing.

Just keep in mind that schools that don't use the SAT or ACT for admissions purposes may still use the exams for awarding scholarships. Athletes should also check NCAA requirements for standardized test scores. 

How Much Does the SAT Really Matter?

For the test-optional colleges mentioned above, the exam should not play any role in the admissions decision if you choose not to submit scores. For other schools, you're likely to find that many of the country's most selective colleges downplay the importance of standardized tests. Such schools have holistic admissions and work to evaluate the whole applicant, not just numerical data. Essays , letters of recommendation, interviews , and most importantly, good grades in challenging courses are all pieces of the admissions equation.

That said, SAT and ACT scores get reported to the Department of Education, and they are frequently used as a measure for rankings such as those published by U.S. News & World Report . Higher average SAT and ACT scores equate with higher rankings for a school and more prestige. The reality is that high SAT scores greatly increase your chances of admission to highly selective colleges and universities. Can you get in with low SAT scores? Perhaps, but the odds are against you. The score ranges below for enrolled students illustrate the point:

Sample SAT Scores for Top Colleges  (mid 50%)

On the plus side, you clearly don't need perfect 800s to get into painfully selective universities such as Harvard and Stanford. On the other hand, you are also unlikely to get in with scores significantly lower than those listed in the 25th percentile columns above.

A Final Word:

The SAT is constantly evolving, and the test you will take is quite different from the one your parents took, and the current exam has little in common with the pre 2016 exam. For good or bad, the SAT (and ACT) remains a significant piece of the college admissions equation for the majority of non-profit four-year colleges. If your dream school has selective admissions, you'd be well advised to take the test seriously. Spending some time with a study guide and practice tests can help make you familiar with the exam and more prepared come test day.

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Students taking the latest version of the SAT have a lot of questions about the Essay section in particular. When the College Board redesigned the SAT in 2016, the Essay section was the aspect of the test that changed most substantially.

As a result, it is the section that is least understood. Keep reading to learn how we approach setting a good target score for this often enigmatic section of the SAT.

What Is the SAT Essay?

Students taking the optional Essay section are provided with a written argument and asked to analyze it. Check out the College Board’s example prompt with sample graded responses to get a sense of what the exam looks like.

Is the SAT Essay Required?

This is the only optional section of the SAT. It does not impact your overall score out of 1600. Instead, your Essay grade stands alone on your score report.

While the College Board does not require the SAT Essay, certain schools do. 

Schools that Require the SAT Essay

• All of the University of California schools
• Benedictine University
• City University London
• Delaware State University
• DeSales University
• Dominican University of California
• Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
• Howard University
• John Wesley University
• Kentucky State University
• Martin Luther College
• Molloy College
• Schreiner University
• Soka University of America
• Southern California Institute of Architecture
• Texas A&M University—Galveston
• United States Military Academy (West Point)
• University of North Texas
• West Virginia University Institute of Technology
• Western Carolina University

Discover how your SAT score affects your chances

As part of our free guidance platform, our Admissions Assessment tells you what schools you need to improve your SAT score for and by how much. Sign up to get started today.

Additionally, these schools do not require the SAT Essay but recommend it.

Schools that Recommend the SAT Essay

• Abilene Christian University
• Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
• Allegheny College
• Amherst College
• Art Institute of Houston
• Augsburg University
• Austin College
• Caldwell University
• California State University, Northridge
• Central Connecticut State University
• Central Michigan University
• Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
• Coastal Carolina University
• Colby College
• College of Wooster
• Colorado School of Mines
• Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
• Corban University
• Cornerstone University
• Dallas Christian College
• Duke University
• Eastern Illinois University
• Eastern Nazarene College
• Easternn University
• Endicott College
• Five Towns College
• Gallaudet University
• George Washington University
• Georgia Highlands College
• Greenville University
• Gwynedd Mercy University
• High Point University
• Hofstra University
• Holy Family University
• Husson University
• Indiana University South Bend
• Indiana University Southeast
• Indiana Wesleyan University
• Inter American University of Puerto Rico: Barranquitas Campus
• Juilliard School
• Keiser University (West Palm Beach)
• Lehigh University
• Madonna University
• Manhattan College
• Marymount California University
• Massachusetts Maritime Academy
• McMurry University
• Mercy College
• Modern College of Design
• Montana Tech of the University of Montana
• Morehouse College
• Mount Saint Mary College
• Mount St. Joseph University
• National-Louis University
• New Jersey City University
• Nichols College
• North Park University
• Occidental College
• Ohio University
• Oregon State University
• Purdue University Northwest
• Randall University
• Randolph-Macon College
• Reading Area Community College
• Rowan University
• Rutgers University—Camden Campus
• Rutgers University—Newark Campus
• Saint Michael’s College
• Seton Hill University
• Shiloh University
• Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
• Silver Lake College of the Holy Family
• Southern Illinois University of Carbondale
• Southern Oregon University
• Spring Hill College
• Sul Ross State University
• SUNY Farmingdale State College
• SUNY University at Stony Brook
• Tarleton State University
• Texas A&M International University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas State University
• The King’s College
• United States Air Force Academy
• University of Evansville
• University of La Verne
• University of Mary Hardin—Baylor
• University of Massachusetts Amherst
• University of Minnesota: Twin Cities
• University of New England
• University of Northwestern—St. Paul
• University of the Virgin Islands
• University of Toledo
• University of Washington Bothell
• VanderCook College of Music
• Virginia Union University
• Wabash College
• Webb Institute
• Webber International University
• Wesleyan College
• William Jewell College

Should You Take the SAT Essay Section?

We recommend taking the Essay section just in case you want to apply to one of the schools that requires or recommends it. If you’re absolutely sure you won’t apply to any of these schools, you can skip it. Just know that you can’t retake the SAT essay alone, so if you change your mind and want to apply to a school that requires the Essay section, you’ll have to retake the whole test.

How Is the SAT Essay Scored?

Your essay will be evaluated on three criteria—Reading, Analysis, and Writing.

The Reading grade is meant to gauge how well you understand the passage content. Did you absorb the information you just read? Especially when the details are not intuitive, your readers will be checking to see that you read closely and caught the nuance of the piece.

The Analysis score relates to how well you represented the argument that the writer made. Your goal in the Essay section should be to determine what the writer’s main argument is and describe how they present it. 

Finally, your score in Writing reflects your own command over the English language. Your capacity to write clear, well-structured sentences that use a wide range of vocabulary will determine this grade.

Two readers each give the essay a score between 1 and 4, depending on how well each reader thinks you did in the three categories. Their grades are then summed to give you a three-part grade. The highest grade you can receive is 8, 8, 8, while the lowest possible score is 2, 2, 2. To give an example, one student may score a 5, 4, 4, which would mean that their readers submitted the following feedback:

What’s a Good, Average, and Bad SAT Essay Score?

In 2019, the mean score on the Reading and Writing for the SAT Essay was a 5. For the Analysis section, the mean score was a little lower at 3, simply because Analysis is a skill that high school students spend less time honing than Reading or Writing.

For a detailed breakdown of how 2019’s test takers performed, here are a few score distributions:

Here’s a rough breakdown of the percentile scores based on the most recent College Board data. Here’s how this chart works: say you scored a 6 on the Reading section. According to the data, that means that you performed better than 70% of other essay writers.

SAT Essay Score Percentile Rankings

Source: College Board and CollegeVine data analysis

How Should You Understand and Improve Your SAT Essay Score?

Unless your SAT Essay score is rock-bottom, you should not feel the need to retest just to improve your Essay score. If you received a low score that you feel isn’t representative of your writing abilities, focus on crafting stellar college essays instead of retaking the SAT just for the Essay section.

If you were unhappy with your SAT Essay score AND your overall SAT score, however, then you should consider retaking the test with the Essay section. 

Here are a few tips on how to improve your SAT Essay score:

1. Annotate the passage. Read carefully. Start by boxing the main argument of the passage, then put a star next to three or four places where the author employs a strategy to win the readers over. These may include:

• Refuting a counter argument
• Raising a question
• Providing anecdotal evidence
• Using statistics to support a claim
• Citing historical examples
• Employing rhetorical devices, such as metaphor

2. State the main point of the passage author. Make it clear that you understand what the author is trying to say by stating their thesis clearly in your essay response. No one reading your essay should have any doubt as to what you think the main point of the passage is.

Make the author’s thesis clear at the beginning of your response as well as in your concluding paragraph. Tie back to it often within your body paragraphs too.

3. Outline before you write. Spend 3-5 minutes organizing your thoughts. Build up 2-4 points about the argument’s structure. Think of yourself as a debate coach. Give feedback on the persuasion tactics the author used. Which ones were most effective? What could they have done to sway their audience even more?

Remembered the strategies you starred when you were annotating? These are the building blocks of the author’s argument, and your essay should provide analysis of how effectively these building blocks were used.

4. DO NOT include your personal opinion. The essay exists to assess whether you can analyze an argument. It has nothing to do with your personal views. If you find yourself defending or disagreeing with the passage, that is a good sign that you are missing a chance to analyze the argument’s structure.

5. Proofread your essay. Give yourself 2 minutes towards the end of the section to improve the language you used. Search for spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as weak word choice. Replace monosyllabic words like “good” and “is” with more dynamic vocabulary, such as “striking” or “constitutes.” This is a quick and easy way to boost your Writing score.

For more advice on how to study for the Essay section, check out our How to Get a Perfect Score on the SAT Essay and The Ultimate Guide to the New SAT Essay .

Want to know how your SAT score impacts your chances of acceptance to your dream schools? Our free Chancing Engine will not only help you predict your odds, but also let you know how you stack up against other applicants, and which aspects of your profile to improve. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to gain access to our Chancing Engine and get a jumpstart on your college strategy!

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Everything You Need to Know About the Digital SAT

College Board

• January 4, 2024

You’ve probably already heard that College Board has made the SAT digital. Here’s what you need to know.

Is the SAT still important to take?

It sure is! The SAT puts your achievements into context. That means it shows off your qualifications to colleges and helps you stand out.

Most colleges—including those that are test optional —still accept SAT scores. Together with high school grades, the SAT can show your potential to succeed in college or career.

Learn more about why you should take the SAT .

When is the SAT going digital?

Students testing outside the U.S. first started taking the digital SAT in spring 2023. If you’re in the U.S., whether you’re planning to take the SAT in a test center on a weekend or in school on a school day, the test will be digital starting in spring 2024.

If you took the PSAT/NMSQT this fall, you already know what to expect with the digital SAT.

If you're planning to take the digital SAT on a weekend, watch this video to find out more. 

If you're planning to take the digital SAT in school on a school day, watch this video to find out more.

Isn’t this just the same test but online?

No, College Board didn't just take the paper and pencil test and put it on the computer. We took the opportunity to make the SAT a far better test experience for you.

What’s staying the same?

• Still measuring the knowledge and skills that matter most for college and career.
• Still scoring the test on a 1600-point scale.
• Still administering the test in schools or test centers with a proctor present (not at home). Test centers will continue to be open to all students, not just those enrolled in that school.
• Still offering access to free, world-class practice resources.
• Still supporting all students, including those who need accommodations on test day.

What’s changing?

• You’ll take the SAT on a laptop or tablet.
• You’ll take a shorter test, about 2 hours instead of 3. Find out how adaptive testing makes this possible .
• You’ll have shorter reading passages instead of a few long texts.
• You’ll be allowed to use your calculator on the entire Math section and there’s a calculator built right into Bluebook™, the digital testing application .

How do I register?

Registration is open for the spring 2024 digital SAT. You can check dates and deadlines here and find a test center close to you here .

Register Now

How do I practice?

Find everything you need to start practicing and preparing for the digital SAT here .

Have more questions? We’ve got answers!

Learn more about the digital SAT here .

Related Posts

What is digital sat adaptive testing, using a managed device for the digital sat.

How to Use the Student Question Bank

The Student Question Bank has the potential to be your not-so-secret sidekick for practice. It has thousands of official practice questions created by the same people who developed the SAT Suite of Assessments.

Plus, you can filter the question bank by assessment, test (Reading and Writing or Math), domain, skill, and difficulty level, so you're maximizing your study time by focusing on the questions targeted to where you need the most practice.

Of course, these domain categories and skill names may be hard to decipher. How can you use the Question Bank effectively if you don't know what you want to study? The pages below will give you the information you need to identify the question types that accompany each skill.

Keep in Mind

Question bank.

You can use the question bank to design your own practice. Log in to My Practice with a sign-in ticket from your school or your personal College Board student account to access the Student Question Bank.

More Information

UH Undergraduate Admissions

Test Optional Admissions

Freshman applicants have the option to apply for admission with or without a test score for the following academic terms: spring 2025, summer 2025 and fall 2025. So, what exactly does that mean? Learn more below.

What is test optional admission?

Test optional admission is our review philosophy to give you the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores or not as part of your application. In other words, test scores are not required and will not impact our admissions decision.

3 Things You need to Know

You are not disadvantaged by applying without a test score. Please review your academic record and determine the best application option for you.

Apply through the  Common App  or ApplyTexas .  Submit just one application.  This is where you’ll indicate whether you want to be reviewed with a test score or without a test score. Be sure to complete the short admissions essay and tell us about your extracurricular activities.

• See the admission requirements

You can change how you are considered for admission after you submit your application. Just fill out the Admissions Review Option Change Form. If you already received a decision, however, you will not be able to change how you are considered for admission.

• Complete the form

The Process

Applicants can apply for admission to the University of Houston through Common App or ApplyTexas . This is where you'll specify whether you want to apply with or without a test score. All applicants applying with or without a test score must submit a short admissions essay and extracurricular activities — both can be submitted through Common App or ApplyTexas. Make sure to complete these sections before you finish and submit your application. You will not be able to go back and add your admissions essay or extracurricular activities once you’ve submitted your application.

If applying with a test score:

Have your ACT or SAT score(s) sent directly from the testing agency to us.

University of Houston ACT Code:   4236 University of Houston SAT Code:    6870

If applying for admission with test scores, we will use the highest total or composite score submitted. We do not super score. To comply with Texas Success Initiative standards, scores may not be more than five years old at the time of submission. Be sure to complete the short admissions essay and tell us about your extracurricular activities.

If applying without a test score:

If you don’t meet the assured admissions requirements, we may require additional documentation (like updated grades), which we’ll request from you to help us make our decision. Be sure to complete the short admissions essay and tell us about your extracurricular activities. 

Changed your mind? If you want to change how your application is reviewed (with or without a test score), fill out the Admissions Review Option Change Form.  You cannot submit this request if you have already received an admissions decision.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements are different if you choose to apply without a test score. The admission criteria for each choice is below.

*If you don’t meet the assured admissions requirements, we may consider additional factors in the admissions process. If we require additional documentation, we’ll request those materials from you.

 **This unweighted GPA will be calculated by the University of Houston (out of a 4.0 scale) using English, math, science and social studies grades on your transcript. Extracurricular classes will not be included. 

Majors With Additional Requirements

Some majors have additional requirements on top of the ones listed above. For more information, visit   uh .edu/freshman-majors-ar .

Expand All Collapse All

Which option should I choose?

Everyone’s situation is different, so we recommend reaching out to your recruitment specialist to see which option may be best for you. The great thing is, whatever option you choose, can be changed later. So, if you decide that you want to change from applying with test scores to without or vice versa, there’s a form that can be filled out on our website. Remember, you can only submit this form if you have not received an admissions decision yet.

Will I be less likely to be admitted if I apply without a test score?

Not at all! You’re not penalized in any way for choosing to apply without a test score. Just keep our assured admission criteria in mind.

If I choose to apply without a test score, what other documents will I need?

It depends. If you meet the assured admissions criteria, we won’t need anything other than your official transcript. If you don’t, we’ll individually review your file. For that, we’ll need a resume and a personal statement. We’ll let you know if we need those documents.

I already applied without a test score, but now I wish I had applied with a test score instead. Can I change how my application is reviewed?

If i choose to apply without a test score, will i still be eligible for scholarships, ready to apply.

• Apply with the Common Application
• Apply with the Apply Texas Application
• Learn more about freshman admissions

Applying to College: The Application Packet

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Back to List

Once you’ve decided where to apply, it’s time to get the application in order! An application for admission is broken into two general parts: the application itself and the additional information. The application consists of information that most colleges require, and the additional materials vary from college to college.

For information on what’s needed to apply to York College, visit: ycp.edu/admissions/apply

1. Application

The application is where colleges seek personal information, extracurricular activities, and a character statement if the college requires one.

Paper Application vs. Online Applications

If applying on a paper application, make sure that it is the current and correct application. Many colleges will not accept an old application. New applications will typically be available in late summer before the senior year.

To apply online, visit the college websites. You can also visit the Common Application, www.commonapp.org , which allows you to submit one application to many member colleges. Remember: when applying online, make sure to upload or send in any additional materials. Also, work with your school counselor to send your official transcripts to each college you apply to. Your application for admission will not be considered complete without these additional materials.

2. Application Fee or Waivers

College application fees are usually non-refundable and can range from $0 - $100, and sometimes more. But don’t panic! Not all colleges charge an application fee, and there are a few ways that application fees can be waived…

a. SAT Fee Waivers – If you qualified for an SAT Fee Waiver, you can send in an application fee waiver with your application. You can get the application fee waiver from your high school counselor.

b. NACAC Fee Waivers – A form is available from the National Association for College Admissions Counseling. The form can be downloaded from their website ( www.nacacnet.org ) and must be signed by a counselor.

c. Alumni Vouchers – Some colleges offer alumni and college employees the chance to send in a voucher to waive the application fee of an interested student. Contact the college for details.

d. Campus Visits – Some colleges waive the application fee if you have visited the college. Ask the Admissions Office for details.

e. Ask the college for a fee waiver. They may be able to work with you!

3. Transcripts, Test Results, and Character Statement

Official transcripts.

Colleges will only accept transcripts that are “official.” Transcripts should be sent directly from your high school to the college: electronically transferred or in sealed envelopes. Transcripts that have been opened are no longer considered “official” and will not be accepted by colleges for your application. Test scores should be sent directly from the testing agency (ex. College Board or ACT) unless otherwise stated by the college.

Standardized Tests

Some colleges and universities require standardized test scores as part of the application package. However some schools are test optional, meaning a test score is not always required for acceptance. Check with the college’s Admissions Office to determine whether or not a test score is required. If one is, you will need to take one of two tests before you can apply. Be sure to sign up early!

a. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) – www.sat.org The SAT involves two sections (Critical Reading and Math) and is scored out of 1600 total points.

b. ACT (American College Testing ) – www.act.org The ACT involves four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) and is scored out of a possible 36 points. Most colleges require you to take the optional writing test for your ACT scores to count, so make sure to sign up for “ACT plus Writing.”

Test Fee Waivers

Standardized tests can be expensive—between $40 to $80 each time you take the test—and it’s not uncommon for students to take these tests more than once. The good news is test fee waivers are available for eligible students for both the SAT and ACT. All test fee waivers are available through your high school counselor. They do not cover late registration fees, so be proactive: ask for the waiver and sign up for the test early!

Test scores can be automatically sent to colleges you are applying to by filling out the School Code (a four-digit code unique to each College/University) in the appropriate box on the test. School codes are entered at the end of each test. If your college of choice is unknown, scores can be sent after testing, but additional fees may apply.

Example : York College SAT Code: 2991, York College ACT Code: 3762

Studying for the Tests

There are many free ways to study and take practice tests to get familiar with the SAT and ACT. High school guidance offices and local libraries have guidebooks available that offer practice tests free of charge. For free online practice tests, check out khanacademy.org and the College Board website: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ .

Test Optional

Some colleges provide an application pathway that does not require a standardized test score. In this case, submitting a standardized test score, like the SAT or ACT, is optional. Without a test score though, supporting documentation becomes very important. You’ll want to check with the college’s Admissions Office to determine what additional materials may be required in lieu of a test score.

Character Statement

The character statement is the student’s promise that there is no false information on the application. Make sure it is signed and know that colleges with character statements look at lying on your application like teachers look at plagiarism. Honesty is important.

4. High School Counselor Recommendation

This informs colleges of the high school’s grading scale, the student’s class rank, and lets the Admission staff know the applicant is in good standing and intends to graduate on time. Many colleges require materials in addition to the application. Each college has different requirements, so make sure to send exactly what that college requests.

Possible Additional Materials/Supplements Colleges May Request: 

Teacher Recommendations - Many colleges ask for 1-2 teacher recommendations. These recommendations should be from 11th or 12th grade teachers who taught an academic core subject.

Essay/Personal Statement - An Essay is a writing sample on a specified topic. A Personal Statement is usually on any topic chosen by the applicant. For example, applicants will use it to explain a challenge they faced in a subject area and how they overcame it. At some colleges, these are required; at others they are “highly encouraged.”

Interview - Some colleges require an interview with either an Admissions Counselor or alumni as part of the application review process. If required, schedule this interview as soon as possible because interview time slots can fill up quickly. This can be taken care of online or by a simple call to the Admissions Office.

SAT/ACT Scores

Portfolio/Audition - If you are applying for an arts, theatre, or music program, some colleges require a portfolio or an audition submission at the time of application. Contact the college to inquire about setting up an audition time, or for specifics on portfolio submissions.

Tips for Students

Teacher recommendation .

When asking a teacher to write a recommendation, ask them early in the fall semester of your senior year so they have time to write a thoughtful letter and are not swamped with other requests. You want the teacher to be able to shine the best possible light on your application! You may want to also seek a recommendation from your high school counselor, especially if they know you well.

If English is not your first language, and you took ESL classes in 9th or 10th grade, have one of your teacher recommendations be from your 11th or 12th grade English teacher—this proves to the college that you’ve worked hard at mastering the language and succeeded.

Essay/Personal Statement

When writing an essay on an assigned topic, make sure that you answer the question that is asked! If time allows, ask your English teacher to look over your essay for grammar and punctuation. Be sure to give them enough time in advance, just as you would a teacher recommendation.

When choosing a topic for a Personal Statement, don’t write about information you already listed in the application (such as a list of activities you’re involved in). Colleges already have a handle on your day-to-day activities from the application. Instead, write about something that they wouldn’t know about you by just reading the transcript. Describe the impact you made by performing a service in your community. Why do you want to attend this college or major in a certain field? What is an interesting fact about you or an experience that you’ve had that the Admissions Office would find interesting or unique? Keep in mind that some colleges and the Common Application provide prompts to respond to as opposed to selecting a topic of your choice.

For information on what's required when submitting your application to York, visit ycp.edu/admissions/admissions-guidelines .

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Transfer Application Process

Thank you for your interest in Dean College. We look forward to helping you become a part of the Dean community.

Ready To Apply?

At Dean, we define transfer students as anyone who has attempted college-level coursework after high school. Please explore our transfer options to complete your application for admission.

• Review the Dean Transfer Guarantee to see if you qualify for a streamlined application and guaranteed admission to Dean College.
• Visit the our  Dean College Application Page  for all the details. 
• For The Common Application, if you have already created an account, simply add us to your list. For the Dean College application, click on the appropriate online application for you (i.e. freshman or transfer).  

After you have submitted your application, your credentials (transcripts, test scores — optional, recommendations — optional) can be submitted online through your guidance office, by email to [email protected], by fax to 508-541-8726 or by mail to the Office of Admission, 99 Main Street, Franklin, MA 02038.

Application Requirements

In addition to your application for admission please review and submit the following:

• Official College Transcript from each college or university attended. This is for review purposes and credit evaluation.
• Transfer Student Status Report from each college or university attended. The Dean of Students or equivalent should complete this form on your behalf. 
• High School Transcript or results from the GED or HiSET
• SAT/ACT Test Scores (Not Required) – As a transfer applicant test scores are not required for admission. 
• Letter(s) of Recommendation (Optional) - One letter of recommendation from a college instructor who has taught you in an academic subject, such as English, mathematics, science, or social studies is helpful in the admissions process.
• Personal Statement or Essay (Optional) - Both applications include the opportunity for a brief personal statement (essay) but you are welcome to submit it as a separate document. A writing sample on a topic of your choice can help us learn more about your background and goals.

During the review process, our counselors consider your potential as part of the Dean community. Optional materials like your essay, letters of recommendation, and test scores add to our understanding of who you are. These materials are not required, but they do give us more information to consider your fit at Dean College.

*The admissions office reserves the right to request additional information to assist with your application review.*

Program Specific Requirements

• Dance and Theatre Applicants  - Candidates for Dance or Theatre are  required to audition  and submit a photo and performance resume.
• Arch Program Applicants  - Candidates for the Arch Program can find additional requirements, including details on scheduling an interview for the program,  here .

Students who have  previously applied  to Dean College, but did not enroll, should not reapply. Please complete our  Reactivation Form . After receipt, the admissions staff will contact you regarding specific application requirements.

Students who were  previously enrolled  at Dean College and are looking to re-enroll, should not reapply. Please contact the Registrar's Office by emailing [email protected].  

International Transfer Students

International applicants must submit additional documents to complete their application. Please review the international application process for information about visas, passports, and documentation of finances.

Transfer students who completed college or university courses outside the U.S. must have their transcripts translated in English and credits evaluated by a recognized agency such as World Education Services , the Center for Educational Documentation , or American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). 

Application Deadlines

Fall semester.

• November 1: Early Action Priority Deadline (Non-Binding and Receive Decision Mid-December)
• December 1: Early Action Deadline (Non-Binding and Receive Decision Mid-January)  
• March 15: Priority Admissions Deadline 
• Rolling Admissions after March 15

Spring Semester

• Rolling Admissions after December 1st

Dean College admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the College.  Dean College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, marital status, veteran status, nation and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and athletic and other College-administered programs.

Financial Aid

Dean College is committed to providing a high quality education at an affordable value. To be considered for maximum financial aid opportunities , students will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid .

Do you have questions regarding the application process? The Dean College admissions team is here to help! Contact us using the information below.

Dean College Office of Admissions

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Master the SAT Essay: Your Guide to Format, Tips, and Practice

• Updated on  
• Jun 25, 2024

SAT Essay Example: The SAT essay is often viewed as a daunting hurdle on the path to college admissions. However, this crucial component of the test presents a valuable opportunity to showcase critical thinking and analytical writing skills. Beyond simply summarising a provided passage, the SAT essay demands a deeper engagement with the author’s arguments, requiring students to dissect persuasive techniques, identify underlying assumptions, and potentially even propose counterarguments.

We have compiled some SAT essay examples to help you better come to grips with such questions. That said, read the complete blog to learn more about these questions with the help of some SAT essay examples. 

What Is the SAT Essay?

The SAT Essay section presents an opportunity for test-takers to showcase their preparedness for the analytical and written demands of college coursework and future careers. It closely resembles a typical college writing assignment, tasking students with a close reading and analysis of a provided passage followed by a structured essay response to a prompt directly connected to the passage. 

This section serves a dual purpose: firstly, it grants students a platform to demonstrate their proficiency in reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and written communication; secondly, it offers valuable feedback on these very areas, allowing students to identify strengths and target aspects requiring further development.

The task itself reflects the types of writing assignments students will encounter throughout their academic careers, demanding a critical examination of source material, the formulation of a cogent argument, and the articulation of ideas clearly and concisely. 

SAT Essay Example PDF: Sample Questions and Answers (Download for Free)

SAT Essay Example: Here are some sample questions that you can practice to ace your SAT essay questions. Download the free PDF from the link given below and practice the questions. Doing so will give you a solid understanding of the types of questions that can be asked, ensuring you are better equipped to tackle such questions on the day of the exam. 

Click on the link below to download the PDF for SAT essay sample questions (with answers) for free!

What is the Format of an SAT Essay?

The SAT Essay adheres to a well-defined structure, designed to assess a student’s ability to effectively analyze and respond to a written argument. Within this framework, students are presented with the opportunity to showcase their critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and writing skills.

Introduction

The essay begins with a concise and informative introduction. This opening paragraph should provide a brief overview of the passage’s main argument or thesis. Here, students should demonstrate their comprehension of the author’s central point and purpose. Following this introduction, the essay transitions into the body paragraphs, each one dedicated to a specific aspect of the author’s argumentative strategy.

Body Paragraphs

The core body paragraphs serve as the crux of the essay. Within each paragraph, students are tasked with dissecting a distinct element employed by the author to persuade the audience. This analysis should delve into specific techniques utilized by the author, such as the use of evidence, appeals to logic or emotion, or the incorporation of counterarguments. To bolster their analysis, students must provide concrete textual evidence from the passage to substantiate their claims. Effective use of transitions between paragraphs ensures a smooth flow of ideas and a logical progression of the analysis.

The concluding paragraph serves to bring the essay to a satisfying close. In this final section, students should reiterate the main argument of the passage and summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs regarding the author’s persuasive techniques. The conclusion may also offer a final thought or reflection on the author’s overall effectiveness in achieving their persuasive goals.

By adhering to this structured format, students taking the SAT Essay can present a well-organized and persuasive analysis of the provided passage. This structure allows them to effectively showcase their critical thinking and writing skills in a way that directly aligns with the expectations of college-level writing assignments.

How to Write an SAT Essay? 

The SAT Essay presents a valuable opportunity for test-takers to demonstrate their preparedness for the rigours of college-level writing and critical analysis. While seemingly daunting at first glance, crafting a compelling SAT essay becomes a manageable task when approached strategically. Here, we will explore a series of steps designed to guide students through the process of constructing a well-developed and insightful essay response.

• The foundation for a successful SAT essay lies in a thorough understanding of the passage and the prompt itself. Students should dedicate a significant portion of the allotted time to attentively reading the provided passage.
•  During this initial reading, it is crucial to grasp the author’s central argument, the evidence used to support it, and the overall tone and purpose of the writing. Taking notes or underlining key points can be helpful in solidifying comprehension.
• Once comfortable with the passage, students should meticulously analyze the essay prompt. The prompt typically poses a specific question about the author’s argumentative strategies. 
• Identifying the key elements of the prompt is paramount, as it dictates the direction and focus of the essay response. Underlining keywords within the prompt can help ensure a clear understanding of what the essay graders are looking for.
• The next step involves crafting a strong thesis statement. This concise sentence should encapsulate the central argument of the essay, outlining the key techniques employed by the author to persuade the audience. 
• An effective thesis statement serves as a roadmap for the entire essay, guiding the analysis and ensuring a focused response.
• The concluding paragraph serves to bring the essay to a satisfying close. Students should reiterate the main argument of the passage and summarize the key points discussed regarding the author’s persuasive techniques. 
• The conclusion may also offer a final thought or reflection on the effectiveness of the author’s strategies, but it should avoid introducing any entirely new ideas.

What are the Most Common Types of SAT Essay Questions? 

There are primarily four types of SAT essay questions that aspirants should keep in mind. These questions typically revolve around analysing the persuasive techniques used in a provided passage. These questions are of the following types:

• Evidence: How does the author use evidence to support their claims? What types of evidence are employed (e.g., statistics, anecdotes, expert opinions)? How effectively does the evidence bolster the author’s argument?
• Logical Reasoning: Does the author’s argument follow a sound logical structure? Are there any logical fallacies present? How does the author connect evidence to their central point?
• Appeals: What persuasive appeals does the author utilize (e.g., appeals to logic, emotion, or ethics)? How effective are these appeals in convincing the audience?
• Rhetorical Strategies: Does the author employ specific rhetorical strategies to enhance their argument (e.g., use of figurative language, parallelism, tone)? How do these strategies contribute to the overall persuasiveness of the passage?

Keeping abreast of such question types will help you develop a strong foundation for approaching any prompt with ease. Focusing on honing your critical thinking skills and the ability to identify and analyse persuasive techniques will equip you to tackle any passage effectively.

So that was all about SAT essay examples. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic. 

Ans. As of June 2024, the College Board eliminated the mandatory essay section from the SAT. However, some individual schools may still require or recommend the SAT Essay as part of their application process. It’s crucial to check the specific requirements of each college or university you’re interested in attending.

Ans. The SAT Essay assesses your reading comprehension, analytical writing, and persuasive writing skills. You are presented with a passage that argues a particular point of view. Your task is to analyse the author’s argument and identify the key points and the methods used to support them. 

Ans. You can practice analysing argumentative passages, honing your reading comprehension skills, and strengthening your writing abilities. Many resources are available online and in test prep materials, including sample prompts and scoring guidelines.

Visit the Leverage Live page of Leverage edu or contact our study abroad experts at 1800-57-2000 to strengthen your scores and application to secure your spot in your dream college. 

Shubham Das

Shubham Das has been working as an educational content writer for the past two years and has a background in filmmaking & screenplay/ teleplay writing. He is fascinated by the human psyche, literature and cinema.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, is the sat optional.

As you research colleges and universities and consider their admissions requirements, you’ll inevitably notice that many schools require you to submit your SAT scores as part of your application. Admissions staff often consider your standardized test scores to confirm your GPA or to determine whether you demonstrate strengths beyond what your high school transcripts can reveal. And according to the College Board, which administers the SAT, the exam specifically assesses the knowledge you’ve learned in reading, writing, and math—skills that also help measure how prepared you are for college and career.

Given its purpose, it’s no wonder that colleges and universities have been requiring the SAT for decades. But as you peruse school websites and the brochures you collected at college fairs, you might also notice a term pop up when it comes to SAT scores: test optional. But what does test optional mean? Is taking the SAT itself optional, or does it mean submitting your scores is optional? Are standardized tests optional for every applicant or just specific individuals? And is the SAT optional in reality, or are students who submit their scores secretly more likely to be admitted than those who don’t? 

Here’s what you need to know so you can decide whether the SAT should be part of your college application process.

The SAT Is Not Always Optional

More than 1,800 accredited colleges and universities that issue bachelor’s degrees—meaning more than half of such institutions—offer test-optional or even test-free admissions. But that still means a hefty number of colleges do require the SAT . As we’ll discuss below, the best way to determine whether the college you’re applying to requires the SAT is to check their admissions website or connect with their admissions staff.

Before we move into the nitty-gritty of colleges that are test optional and what that means for you, remember that the SAT is generally not required if you are applying to a community college or a trade school after high school. Community colleges usually have open admissions, meaning that the only criterion for acceptance is earning your high school diploma or earning your GED. Trade schools may require you to take a placement exam, but not the SAT, which is primarily a test of skills you’d use at a school that issues bachelor’s degrees.

Some test-optional schools may not require the SAT as part of your application but still require you to submit your scores to determine which courses you should be placed in (e.g., which level of math you should take as part of your general-education credits) or for the purposes of their own institutional research. Alternatively, some schools require you to participate in an interview with an admissions counselor or submit substitute materials, such as additional recommendation letters or samples of your academic work, if you choose not to submit your SAT scores. So be sure to read each college’s admissions policy carefully. 

Also be aware that even if you’re applying only to colleges that are test optional, there are 20 states that currently require you to take the SAT to graduate from high school ; the existence of test-optional college admissions will not exempt you from that graduation requirement.

What Does Test-Optional Admissions Really Mean?

The term test optional refers to college admissions policies that allow you to choose whether to submit your SAT results with your application —your test scores are optional rather than mandatory. If you apply to a school that is test optional, you can take the test but choose to withhold your scores if you’re unhappy with your performance or don’t feel they accurately reflect your abilities. Or you can choose to submit your SAT results, and the admissions office will consider your scores as part of your application.

(Of course, if you are applying to only test-optional schools, you could potentially even decide not to take the SAT at all. But before you start doing celebratory somersaults because you relish the idea of never taking the exam, read on to make sure it’s the right path for you.)

You may also see some undergraduate institutions offering something called test-free or test-blind admissions . This means the university will not consider your standardized exam scores even if you submit them. Currently, only around 80 institutions offer this policy, including schools in the University of California and California State University systems. Meanwhile, test-flexible colleges are those that allow you to choose among the SAT, ACT, AP, and IB exams to fulfill their admissions requirements.

Why Are Schools Offering Test-Optional Admissions?

Test-optional admissions became much more popular during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, when SAT administration shut down in the wake of lockdowns and health protocols. But more than 1,000 colleges and universities were already offering the policy. So what’s been inspiring colleges to provide this alternative?

Test-optional policies are often touted as a way to make college admissions fairer and more equitable. They are intended to open access to students who have lower test scores but otherwise strong applicants — in short, students whose strengths are not reflected in their SAT performance. Many universities want to admit a more diverse pool of students, and critics have long argued that the SAT discriminates against specific groups , such as low-income students and BIPOC, and that standardized test scores often reflect the test-takers’ financial backgrounds and access to resources rather than their academic abilities.

Many education experts also believe that standardized tests do not accurately predict whether students are prepared for the rigors of college or will be successful all the way to graduation; they support relying on other factors, such as high school grades, recommendation letters, extracurricular participation or leadership, and responses to short-answer and essay prompts to assess applicants’ potential.

Who Can Take Advantage of Test-Optional Policies?

If a college offers a test-optional policy, it usually applies to all or most of its applicants. Still, many schools restrict which students are allowed to go test optional. Some universities, for example, require that international, out-of-state, and/or homeschooled students submit their SAT scores. At other institutions, applicants are exempt from submitting their scores only if they meet a minimum GPA or have placed above a specific class rank (e.g., in the top 5% or 10% of their graduating class). 

Because these policies vary so widely, make sure to read each school’s test-optional policy carefully to determine whether you’re eligible.

Is the SAT Optional at the Colleges I’m Applying To?

You can find updated lists of schools that offer test-optional admissions online; just be sure that you’re looking at the most recent version of these lists because schools can change their admissions requirements from year to year. For example, more than 1,400 colleges have committed to making their test-optional policy permanent. Others have opted in only temporarily (e.g., for one to three years). Still other universities are returning to requiring the SAT, such as MIT, and several colleges have never offered the test-optional policy.

Another useful resource that’s fairly comprehensive and updated frequently is the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, or FairTest , which categorizes the current list into test-optional and test-free institutions. You can easily search their list for schools you’re interested in, find links to each college’s application requirements, and learn how long they’ve publicly committed to offering test-optional admissions. It’s a convenient site to look up multiple schools at once.

Ultimately, though, you should check with the colleges themselves, either by consulting their admissions pages or connecting with their admissions staff and asking, “Are SAT scores required for the class of 2023?” or “Is the SAT optional for the class of 2024?” That way, you’ll always have the latest, most accurate information on whether they require that you submit your exam scores.

Is the SAT Optional at Top-Tier Schools?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, almost all of the most prestigious schools in the U.S., including Ivy League schools and public Ivies , required the SAT for admission. But in 2022–2023, top universities such as Boston University, Brown, Dartmouth, Northwestern, Princeton, the University of Pennsylvania, and Yale were test optional. Other selective schools, such as Columbia, Cornell, and Stanford, will continue their test-optional admissions at least through the 2023–2024 school year, and Harvard has already announced that they will extend its current test-optional policy through 2026.

You might also notice that a large number of top-ranking liberal arts colleges and research universities no longer require the SAT for admission . So again, if you’re planning to apply to one of these universities, it’s best to check their admissions website or contact their admissions officers to confirm their most up-to-date requirements.

Will I Be Penalized If I Don’t Submit My Scores?

You might be wondering whether the test-optional option is a trick of some kind. Maybe you’re thinking that you’ll be less likely to be admitted if you don’t submit your scores even though the university says they’re not required.

Rest assured: it’s not a trick. You will not be penalized for not submitting your SAT scores to a test-optional college. Schools are simply offering you the opportunity to curate your application according to your strengths. If you choose not to submit your SAT results, you will not be at a disadvantage compared with other applicants.

That said, a strong SAT score is evidence of your preparedness for college, so you should still weigh the pros and cons of submitting your scores to test-optional schools carefully , which we’ll discuss below.

6 Reasons to Take the SAT Even If It’s Optional

Deciding whether to take advantage of a school’s test-optional admissions policy can be tough, and the answer depends on your individual circumstances. Let’s start with reasons you should take the SAT and submit your scores even though you’re applying to a test-optional college.

The College Recommends You Submit Your Scores

Some schools that are test optional will outright recommend that you still submit your SAT results. That’s because many admissions counselors still prefer to see them as part of a student’s application . If that’s the case, take the obvious hint: register for and take the test, aim high, and submit your scores. Some education insiders will tell you that it’s also best to study hard, earn strong scores, and submit your SATs to Ivy League colleges and public Ivies even if they’re test optional just to improve your chances of getting in.

You’re a Terrific Test Taker

You might also guess rightly that if you perform reliably well on standardized tests, you should definitely take the SAT. High scores can only boost your chances of being admitted.

Earning a stellar score on the exam can also earn you scholarships and other merit-based aid , from full-ride awards to small grants. Many of these financial awards require the SAT, and you don’t want to lose out on the opportunity to win hundreds to thousands of dollars to offset tuition and other costs by not taking the exam. It’s always a good idea to start thinking about applying for scholarships early, but even if you don’t, taking the SAT just in case will mean you’re playing it safe.

Your Scores Are Within the College’s Middle Range for Previously Admitted Students

This might come as a surprise, but even average scores can be a boon to your application , especially since universities consider your scores as just one part of your application—and because admissions staff will sometimes consider whether your scores are high relative to other students who attend your school or live in your city, state, or region. So how do you know which score to shoot for? Most colleges list the scores earned by the middle 50% of each incoming class of first-year students on their websites; look for them on the university’s admissions or quick facts pages. If you earn a score within or above that stated range, go ahead and submit your SAT results.

Even if you’ve struggled before with standardized tests, consider studying for and taking the SAT anyway; you may surprise yourself with higher-than-expected scores if you prepare well and at the right time. Remember that if you end up with a lower score, you can always choose not to submit your results—or, if you’re enough in advance of application deadlines, you can study and take the test again.

Your Grades Are Not Quite Up to Snuff

If your GPA is lower than what’s required by the colleges you’re applying to, working hard to earn a high SAT score can help you offset your grades and strengthen your application . An above-average to exemplary test result can prove to admissions crews that you are ready for the rigors of academic coursework in college, regardless of what’s on your transcript.

And as many high school students can attest, raising your SAT score is often easier than improving a less-than-stellar GPA. After all, you’re focusing on studying for a single exam rather than trying to raise your grades in every class you’re taking.

Your Intended Major or Honors Program Requires It

Even if a college or university is test optional, honors programs and certain degree programs within that school, especially if they’re competitive, can still require applicants to achieve a specific SAT score to be admitted to that major . If you already know which major you’ll be pursuing, be sure to check out that department’s website for their eligibility requirements. 

For that same reason, if you’re unsure of which course of study you want to pursue, take the test. That way, you’ll have your scores tucked away in your back pocket (well, in your SAT portal anyway) when the time comes to apply to your degree program.

You Want A Greater Choice of Colleges

Taking the test doesn’t just expand which degree programs you’ll be eligible for; it also expands your college options . If, for example, you discover a school that really excites you later in your research process, but it turns out that they require the SAT for admissions, you don’t want to lose the opportunity of being considered just because you’ve not studied for or taken the exam.

So make sure to research colleges’ admissions policies for your incoming class year no later than September of your junior year. If the university does not yet list its requirements for the year you’ll be applying, call the admissions office and ask if the SAT will be optional or not. If for some reason you can’t be certain that the school will be test optional the year you’re applying, study effectively and take the test so you’ll be prepared in case the university starts requiring the SAT again.

4 Reasons Not to Submit Your SAT Scores

Now that we've covered reasons you should complete the SAT even if you’re applying to test-optional colleges, let's consider reasons you should not submit your results.

Your SAT Scores Are Lower

SAT scores are just one aspect of your college application; admission counselors also consider factors such as your GPA, the academic rigor of your high school coursework, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, recommendation letters, and writing samples. So if your SAT scores are underwhelming (it happens to even the best of us!) and you can’t afford the time, money, or effort to improve your performance by having another go, take advantage of the test-optional policy and don’t submit your scores.

Low scores are nothing to be ashamed of; test anxiety or other factors beyond your control can certainly affect your performance. But those low scores can definitely hurt your chances of getting admitted, so it’s best to omit them from your application. Just make sure that your grades, community service, and other accomplishments will serve as convincing evidence of your potential because these will be reviewed more closely in the absence of your SAT results.

You Performed Better on Other Exams

You might also choose not to submit your SATs if your scores are better on other standardized tests, such as the ACT, AP Exams, or IB assessments . In that case, share those scores instead with test-optional and test-flexible schools to improve your chances of getting admitted.

You’re Eligible for Automatic Admission Because of Your Class Rank or GPA

Some universities, such as public colleges in Texas, grant automatic admission to in-state students who graduate in the top 10% of their high school class. If you’re applying to schools where you are guaranteed admission because of your class rank or GPA, you can probably omit sending your SAT scores—unless, of course, your test performance will be used to evaluate your candidacy for scholarships and merit-based financial aid or to determine your course placement. Again, it’s always best to check and then double-check the admissions requirements to be certain.

You're Unable to Take the SAT

Many schools went test optional because of the pandemic; similarly, if you are unable to take the SAT for any reason, including illness, injury, physical impairment, severe test anxiety, or inability to reach designated testing locations, take advantage of test-optional policies. Focus instead on strengthening the other parts of your application.

As you might recall, one of the reasons many universities began offering test-optional policies is that lower-income students were disadvantaged whereas more affluent students could afford to purchase test-prep classes and individual tutoring or take the test multiple times to improve their scores. If the SAT registration fees are outside your budget, applying only to test-optional colleges and simply not taking the test is one possibility. However, keep in mind that the College Board offers fee waivers to certain students . If you’re eligible, you can actually submit your test scores to as many colleges as you choose, regardless of whether they’re required. Our guide on fee waivers provides step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

OK, I’ve Decided to Take the SAT — What Do I Do Now?

Once you’ve researched the test requirements for the colleges you’re applying to and weighed whether to take advantage of any test-optional policies, you may decide to take the plunge and register for the SAT. If that’s the case , you’ll want to start preparing and practicing effective test-taking strategies.

On testing day, breathe, do your absolute best, and try not to obsess about your scores. Remember that SAT results can be an important part of your application, but if you’re applying to test-optional schools, you’ll have the power to choose not to submit your scores if you’re not proud of them, and no one will be the wiser! And even if you do submit your scores and they’re not a 1600, take heart that admissions counselors know how to review applications in a holistic way ; they’ll be looking at your grades, your college essay, your extracurricular involvement, and your recommendations too.

As the trend toward test-optional (and test-flexible and test-blind) policies suggests, enrollment professionals recognize that an SAT score does not reflect your worth as an individual or provide a comprehensive prediction of how well you’ll do in college. So try your hardest, and when it comes time to choose whether to submit your scores, you can decide what’s best for you.

What’s Next

Even among universities that are not test optional, there's some variation in how they look at your scores. Find out what it means when colleges superscore the SAT , and explore how you should adapt your test-prep plans accordingly.

Trying to decide whether to take the SAT or ACT? Read our expert guide on the ACT vs. SAT to learn how the two tests differ so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Ready to sign up for the SAT? Here’s everything you need to know about SAT registration . 

Meilee Bridges earned her PhD and MA in English language and literature from the University of Michigan and graduated summa cum laude from the Honors English Program at Trinity University. A former professor turned professional writer and editor, she is dedicated to supporting the educational goals of students from all backgrounds.

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