The “Test-Optional Is Fine” Student
When Underestimating the SAT® Becomes a Risk
Over the past few years, we’ve seen a growing number of students who genuinely believe the SAT® or ACT® simply does not matter very much. This is largely NOT the fault of our students but the result of many schools shifting to test-optional policies in the wake of COVID-19. However, the testing landscape of 2026 is NOT the same as it was in 2020, as many schools have shifted back to requiring test scores (for admissions and/or merit money).
This type of student isn’t avoiding the test out of fear. They aren’t overwhelmed or anxious. In many cases, they’re strong students with solid grades, full schedules, and a reasonable-sounding plan: apply test-optional and focus on everything else.
On the surface, this can look practical, even mature. But for a surprising number of students (and parents!), this mindset quietly becomes the reason they limit their options far more than they realize.
What This Student Looks Like on the Surface
This student usually isn’t resistant or checked out. They’re polite, capable, and often busy. They consider the idea of test prep at times but typically dismiss it as an effort that isn’t worthwhile given their demanding schedules.
They’ll say things like…
“So many schools are test optional now.”
“My grades matter more.”
“I’ll see how it goes and decide later.”
Because the SAT® doesn’t feel urgent, preparation stays vague and inconsistent. Diagnostics get delayed. Practice is sporadic. There’s always time to take it seriously later… until suddenly, there isn’t.
What’s Actually Going on Underneath
For most of these students, motivation isn’t the primary issue: It’s contextualization.
They’ve heard “test optional” interpreted as “tests are irrelevant,” without fully understanding how admissions offices actually use scores when they’re available. In reality, many colleges still rely heavily on testing to differentiate students, especially in pools where grades look increasingly similar (and 50% of U.S. college-bound students are graduating with an A- GPA or higher).
Traditional SAT® Prep Assumptions Should Be Approached Carefully
Traditional prep assumes buy-in. It assumes the student agrees the test is important and is willing to allocate time accordingly.
But when a student fundamentally believes the SAT® doesn’t matter, even excellent instruction won’t do the trick. Assignments feel optional. Practice becomes half-hearted. Parents push, but students comply just enough to keep the peace.
What Actually Works Instead
The messaging we provide to these students should not be based out of fear. Telling them they’re “making a mistake” or that the SAT® is “incredibly important” usually leads to resistance.
What does work is clarity.
Specifically, we need students to understand the following:
where test scores still play a meaningful role
how test-optional policies differ by school type
how having a strong score opens options rather than limiting choice
Once students see the SAT® as a tool (something that can strengthen an application rather than define it), engagement improves. Prep no longer feels like wasted effort “just in case.” It becomes a strategic decision with a clear upside.
Equally important is efficiency. These students respond best to plans that respect their time and acknowledge competing priorities. When prep feels targeted and finite, it’s much easier for them to commit.
What Parents Can Reconsider
It’s often more productive to shift the conversation with these types of students from “You need to do this” to “Here’s what this gives you if it goes well.”
That reframing alone can change how seriously a student approaches the process. Knowing that this score & process can increase the number of options a student has rather than thinking of it as a competing priority with other obligations is the way to lead.
The Bottom Line
The “test-optional is fine” student isn’t careless or naive. They’re responding logically to the information they’ve been given. That information just happens to be incomplete.
When these students understand how the SAT® actually fits into today’s admissions landscape, many become far more willing to engage. And when they do, they often make strong gains quickly, as ability was never the issue.
As the owner of a very busy test prep company, I genuinely cannot tell you how many calls we get from panicked seniors who realized they needed a test to get into their dream school or major/program of choice. I also get a number of emails every week about how much money an SAT® or ACT® score has saved a family on an annual basis.
These tests are incredibly important, and every year onwards from 2020, more schools swing back to requiring scores. A strong score will provide an advantage to your student. Conveying this to them in a simple, logical way will greatly increase buy-in and overall outcomes.
