College Admissions in 2025: Where Tests Still Matter
Do SAT and ACT Scores Still Matter in 2025?
Even in 2025, SAT and ACT results can shape admissions and scholarships.
Despite the growth of test-optional policies, standardized test scores like the SAT and ACT remain an influential factor in college admissions, scholarships, and selective programs. Here’s where test scores continue to carry weight—and why preparing for them is still a smart choice.
The Rise of Test-Optional Policies
Over the past few years, hundreds of colleges have adopted test-optional admissions. This means applicants can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. While the pandemic accelerated this shift, many schools have kept the policy in place.
👉 For a breakdown of the changes to each test, check out our guide to the 2025 ACT updates and SAT digital format.
But “optional” doesn’t always mean “irrelevant.” In fact, at many selective institutions, strong scores still provide a clear admissions edge.
Where Tests Still Matter
1. Competitive Colleges and Programs
Highly selective colleges, including Ivy League schools and top-tier liberal arts colleges, continue to consider standardized test scores when available. Even at test-optional schools, applicants with strong scores often stand out compared to those without.
According to a National Bureau of Economic Research study, test scores remain one of the strongest predictors of first-year college performance.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships
Many universities award merit scholarships directly tied to SAT or ACT scores. Even at test-optional institutions, students who submit high scores are often eligible for larger financial aid packages.
For example, at flagship state schools like the University of Alabama or the University of Oklahoma, strong ACT or SAT scores can translate into tens of thousands of dollars in tuition savings.
3. STEM and Honors Programs
Some specialized programs—such as engineering, pre-med, or honors colleges—still prefer or require test scores. The updated ACT Science section, though now optional, can serve as an advantage for students applying to STEM-heavy majors.
4. International Applicants
For international students applying to U.S. colleges, SAT and ACT scores provide a common academic benchmark across different school systems. This levels the playing field in the eyes of admissions officers.
The Case for Taking the Test(s) Anyway
Even if your dream school is test-optional, submitting strong scores can only help. Colleges rarely penalize applicants for including scores, but withholding them may raise questions—especially if your academic record comes from a lesser-known school.
👉 Want help deciding which test to take? Read our comparison: SAT vs. ACT in 2025.
Preparing for Admissions Success
Standardized tests are not the only factor in the admissions process. GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendations carry significant weight. Still, the ACT and SAT remain powerful tools for differentiation—especially when competing for limited seats at top schools or aiming for major scholarships.
At Ivy Bound Tutoring, we specialize in preparing students for the ACT and SAT, with proven score gains and flexible prep options. Whether you’re aiming for merit aid, Ivy League admissions, or want to keep all doors open, a strong test score can make the difference.
Final Takeaways
In 2025, college admissions will remain a competitive landscape, and while more schools have adopted test-optional policies, the reality is that SAT and ACT scores still carry weight. They continue to influence who earns merit scholarships, who gains admission to selective programs, and even who stands out at test-optional universities where strong scores can tip the balance in your favor.
For families weighing whether to invest time in test prep, the answer is clear: a strong SAT or ACT score is still one of the most controllable factors in an application. Unlike GPA—which depends on years of coursework, teacher grading styles, and school rigor—or extracurriculars that take years to build, test scores can show measurable improvement in just a few focused months of preparation.
Students who take the SAT or ACT seriously open more doors—not only at highly ranked universities but also through financial aid opportunities that reduce long-term college costs. Choosing not to test may close off scholarships and admission advantages that your peers are taking advantage of.
The bottom line: if you’re serious about maximizing your college admissions outcomes in 2025, preparing for and excelling on the SAT or ACT remains a wise investment. It’s not about testing everywhere—it’s about testing smartly where it counts most.
With Ivy Bound’s proven SAT or ACT prep, you’ll get personalized guidance to adapt to the new ACT and put your best score forward.
Find an ACT date or a SAT Date that works for you and stick to YOUR plan.
Explore our ACT Prep Programs or SAT Prep Programs tailored to the new test format.
Take advantage of our Free SAT & ACT Test Drive to assess your readiness under real test conditions.
For personalized guidance, consider our One-on-one Tutoring Services, which focus on your specific needs.
Contact us for a free consultation with an academic & test prep advisor.
Our Results: 6000% Avg. ROI For Families | 150+ Avg. SAT Point Improvement | 14.2+ Avg. ACT Section Point Improvement | $125,000+ Avg. Merit Awards Won.
By leveraging these resources, you can approach the revised ACT with a strategic edge. Stay proactive, and remember that with the right support, success is within reach.