9
2 years ago
Admissions Advice
[edited]

How do I go test optional if my transcripts include my whole test history of SAT/ACT scores?
Answered

My school's transcript include SAT/ACT scores for each test I've taken.

So if I'm going test optional, do I ask my counselors to remove all the test scores from my transcript?

And if I'm going to use my SAT/ACT scores, do I ask my counselor to remove the scores that I'm not using?

Does that apply as well for super-scores for ACT or combination for SAT?

Or will colleges just consider the scores you've submitted on the Common or Coalition App and there is no need to have them removed?

Likewise, they don't consider any even scores if on the transcript if you go test optional.

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3 answers

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Accepted Answer
2 years ago[edited]

Here is what you should do.

1. Meet with your HS counselor and explain to them what you want to do with your test scores. This way, the counselor will know your wishes and figure out with you whether to completely "redact" them or just modify your transcript to include the ones you want to keep. I'm certain that you are not the first person at your HS to have this issue.

2. Since most colleges accept self reported SAT or ACT test scores on the Common or Coalition App and their own proprietary applications, just self report your SAT or ACT scores and/or the superscores. If you get accepted, you will have to contact CollegeBoard or ACT.org and pay for an official test report to be sent to your college so they can verify your self reported test score.

3. Some colleges do expect you to fully report the entire set of SAT or ACT test scores so just keep that in mind and research your colleges thoroughly so you know which ones want the entire history vs. just the highest score/superscore composite.

4. If you decide to go "test-optional" then I would ask my HS counselor to "redact" all the test scores so colleges will not see them whatsoever.

Following this advice will ensure you that you are in control of how you want your test scores disseminated to the colleges you are applying to. Just double check with each college's requirements on their websites to make sure you understand exactly what their expectations are so you don't end up with either and a.) incomplete application or b.) an over-revealed application which was not redacted properly.

Good luck.

3
2
2 years ago

Since every high school has different transcript policies and transcript formats, only your guidance counselor can remove the scores. As others have said, you should have a meeting with them to see what they can do.

If they cannot remove your SAT/ACT scores, I recommend applying to schools that are test-blind. These schools will not consider your scores in the application process even if they know them. Hope this helps!

2
1
2 years ago

You should ask your counselor as this is a school specific question. I assume since they have access to your scores to add them to your transcript, they might be able to remove them. Some schools keep the SAT/ACT scores completely separate from their transcripts, so I can’t give you a solid answer. Ask your counselor if they can remove your SAT/ACT scores that you don’t want to submit and only attach the final score you want to submit, whether it be the original score or a super score. Good luck!

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