Test-Blind Colleges: What Are They and What's the Difference?

I've been hearing about test-blind colleges and I'm a bit confused about how they're different from test-optional colleges. Can somebody explain this to me? Do you guys know any colleges that are test-blind?

Hey there! Test-blind and test-optional colleges are similar in that they both take into consideration the growing concern around standardized testing, but they handle it differently.

Test-optional colleges allow you to choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores as part of your application. It's totally up to you—if you think your test scores will help your application, you can submit them; if not, you can leave them out. Test scores are just one factor among many that these colleges consider during the admissions process.

Test-blind colleges, on the other hand, don't look at standardized test scores at all—even if you submit them. They make admissions decisions based on other factors, like your transcript, extracurricular activities, and essays.

As for specific test-blind colleges, Hampshire College and Northern Illinois University are two examples. Keep in mind that some colleges may only be temporarily test-blind due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so it's important to double-check their policies before applying. For a list of test-blind colleges, check out this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/test-blind-colleges

Good luck with your college search!