How Much Do Placement Test Scores for College Matter?
Wondering how much emphasis to place on placement test scores for college admissions? Learn how prestigious colleges weigh test scores when making an admissions decision.
For many parents of high school students at St. Agnes Academy, the topic of college placement test scores can be both confusing and stressful.
These scores, which are typically derived from standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, are often seen as key indicators of a student's college readiness. But how much do they truly matter to college admissions decisions?
At St. Agnes, we aim to equip parents and students with the knowledge they need to navigate this crucial stage. Today, we’ll break down the role of placement test scores for college and other factors that influence admissions to prestigious institutions.
The Role of Placement Test Scores for College Admissions
Placement test scores, such as those from the SAT or ACT, have traditionally been a significant factor in college admissions. These scores are designed to assess a student’s ability in areas like math, reading, and writing, as well as their overall readiness for college-level coursework.
Some colleges also use these scores to place students into appropriate college-level English courses, math courses, or other core classes. For instance, a high score in the English section might allow a student to skip remedial English courses or qualify for advanced classes that align better with their abilities.
How Much Weight Do Prestigious Colleges Place on Test Scores?
The weight given to test scores varies widely by institution. According to a survey conducted by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), here’s a breakdown of factors that many prestigious colleges and universities consider in their admissions decisions:
- Academic Grades: These are usually the most critical component, offering a clear view of a student's performance over time.
- Placement Test Scores: While still important, their weight has decreased in recent years. Many schools now use a “test-optional” admissions policy. However, for colleges that still require scores, they can account for 20-30% of the decision-making process.
- Advanced Placement (AP) Test Scores: AP test scores strongly indicate a student’s ability to handle college-level courses and are highly valued by admissions officers.
- Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, community service, athletics, and arts are key to evaluating a student’s broader interests and impact outside the classroom.
- Personal Essay: The essay is an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, experiences, and writing abilities.
- Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations from teachers or counselors carry significant weight, especially in competitive programs.
For prestigious universities, academic grades and other factors often outweigh test scores. Many universities review applications holistically, meaning they consider the student as a whole beyond just the numbers.
For example, institutions want to know if a student is genuinely interested in attending their school. Participating in campus visits, writing specific personal essays, or engaging in interviews are some ways to showcase alignment with the college’s values.
Also, tangible success, such as awards or leadership recognition, helps differentiate students in a competitive pool. These achievements show initiative, drive, and the ability to excel in areas of interest.
The Changing Role of Standardized Tests in College Admissions
In recent years, a significant shift has occurred in the college admissions landscape – one that’s changing how academic potential is evaluated across the country.
A growing number of colleges and universities, including Ivy League institutions and other prestigious schools, have adopted test-optional or test-blind admissions policies.
This movement reflects a broader push toward more holistic review processes that consider the full scope of a student’s achievements and potential – not just a single test score.
Understanding the Terminology
- Test-optional policies allow students to decide whether they want to submit SAT or ACT scores with their application. If they believe their scores strengthen their application, they can include them. If not, they can choose to leave them out without penalty.
- Test-blind policies go a step further. Even if a student submits test scores, the school will not consider them in the admissions process at all.
Which Schools Have Made the Shift?
Many of the most well-known and selective colleges in the U.S. are now test-optional. This includes Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and the University of Chicago – each of which evaluates applications with or without test scores.
These institutions emphasize academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation as core indicators of a student’s potential.
On the other hand, the University of California system (including UCLA and UC Berkeley) and the California State University system have adopted test-blind policies. These schools no longer weigh standardized test scores and instead focus on other academic and personal factors.
Why the Change?
The initial wave of test-optional policies came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when access to testing sites was limited. But what began as a temporary solution has sparked ongoing debate about the fairness and effectiveness of standardized testing in evaluating students from diverse backgrounds.
Critics of the SAT and ACT argue that the tests favor students from more affluent backgrounds who can afford tutoring and test preparation, while supporters claim the exams offer a consistent benchmark across schools with varying academic rigor.
Looking Ahead
As of 2025, hundreds of colleges continue to reassess their policies, with some extending test-optional pilots and others moving toward permanent adoption. For students, this shift means greater flexibility to present their strengths in the way that best represents them.
Whether or not a student submits test scores, what’s clear is that admissions offices are placing more value than ever on the whole person – not just their performance on a single exam.
For parents, this may offer reassurance. Even if test scores are not ideal, colleges are often willing to consider your child’s other strengths.
How Parents Can Support Their Daughter
It’s natural for parents to want their children to perform well on college placement tests, but it’s equally important to help them shine in all facets of their application. Here’s how you can support your child:
- Encourage practice tests and prep courses to improve placement test performance.
- Foster a love for learning by supporting their interests in hobbies, clubs, or volunteer activities.
- Help them identify their strengths and craft compelling narratives for essays.
- Guide them in maintaining consistent academic performance, especially in areas critical for college readiness, like math and English.
- Celebrate their achievements – big or small – to boost their confidence.
Find Support from Our College Counseling Department
While placement test scores for college remain a factor in admissions, their importance has shifted in recent years. Prestigious institutions now take a more balanced approach, evaluating multiple aspects of a student’s academic and personal achievements.
We encourage you to help your child focus on their overall performance – not just their test scores – to create an application that reflects their unique character, dedication, and potential.
Additionally, our College Counseling team is readily available to provide timely support throughout your daughter’s junior and senior years. We invite you to contact our seasoned counselors today to see how we can support your family’s academic goals.
