Standardized testing has become one of the most confusing parts of the college admissions process. Test optional, test blind, test required, SAT, ACT, CLT, middle 50% ranges, scholarship requirements. Just when families think they understand the rules, another college changes its policy.

In Episode 6 of Drop In: A Decision Drop Podcast, Lisa and Josh break down what these testing policies actually mean and answer the question families ask constantly:

Should I submit my test score?

The honest answer is still, “It depends.” But by the end of this episode, you will understand exactly what it depends on.

Lisa and Josh explain how to compare your score to a college’s admitted student range, when a score below the median may still strengthen an application, and why intended major and merit scholarship policies can change the decision. They also discuss the growing role of the Classic Learning Test, or CLT, and why families need to check each college’s testing policy every year.

In this episode:

• The difference between test required, test blind, and test optional
• When submitting an SAT, ACT, or CLT score makes sense
• How to use a college’s middle 50% score range
• What to do when your score falls in the gray zone
• Why testing expectations may vary by major or program
• How scores can affect merit scholarship eligibility
• Why the CLT may be worth exploring
• What the University of California testing debate could mean for future applicants

The biggest takeaway: a test score is not a verdict on your intelligence. It is one piece of a much larger application.

Stop asking, “Is this a good score?” Start asking, “Will this score help me at this specific college, for this specific program, during this specific application cycle?”

Need Josh and Lisa to help with your testing plan? Visit decisiondrop.com/contact.