Taking the SAT in high school - is it mandatory?

I've heard mixed information about this - do you have to take the SAT while you're in high school, or is it just strongly recommended? Just trying to decide whether I should start preparing for it now or not! Thanks!

The SAT is not mandatory in the sense that there's no universal requirement for all high school students to take it. However, its importance in the college application process varies depending on the colleges and universities you're interested in. It's true that some schools have become test-optional or even test-blind, meaning they don't require SAT or ACT scores for admission or don't consider them at all in the decision process, respectively. These test-optional/test-blind policies have become more common in recent years, partially due to the COVID pandemic.

That being said, many competitive colleges and universities still value SAT or ACT scores in their admissions processes. For these institutions, a strong score can showcase your academic abilities and potentially strengthen your application. If you're unsure about which schools you'll be applying to, it's a good idea to research the specific policies of the institutions you're considering and the general competitiveness of those schools.

If you find that the majority of colleges on your list do care about SAT or ACT scores, it's wise to start preparing early. By doing so, you'll have more time to familiarize yourself with the test format and content, enabling you to perform to the best of your ability on test day. Additionally, it allows you to identify and address any weaknesses, as well as potentially retake the test if you're not satisfied with your initial score. Keep in mind that you can also use your PSAT score (if you've taken it) to gauge your current SAT performance level and decide whether you need additional preparation.

Ultimately, the decision to take the SAT or not depends on your college aspirations and the specific institutions you plan to apply to. If you're not sure about your college plans yet, preparing for the SAT can be helpful, as it keeps your options open.