<p>the question is basically in the title. thanks.</p>
<p>I'm applying to Smith early decision and I had the same question.</p>
<p>I think this is the first year scores are optional, so nobody has any experience to guide you. You might bear in mind that Smith makes an effort to be transparent and supportive, which means that it's highly unlikely that, having said scores are optional, it's unlikely Smith will play "gotcha" and penalize anyone for not submitting.</p>
<p>You won't be punished for not submitting test scores. When Smith says they're optional, they really mean it. </p>
<p>Now, if your test scores happen to be very high and you think that they would add something to your application, you can go ahead an submit them, it doesn't hurt to do that either. </p>
<p>But if your scores are not very good or just kind of mediocre, I wouldn't worry about. Smith is much more concerned about your academic record, your personal story, and the other components of your application than they are about the test scores. </p>
<p>International students do need to submit the appropriate test scores however.</p>
<p>Also, even though scores are optional for admission, they may be necessary for merit scholarships, as is the case at some other schools. (I didn't check, but that info is probably on the web site.)</p>
<p>I believe that SAT scores are factored into merit scholarship consideration.</p>
<p>Well, not for my D. Maybe because she was international. Stellar student with good (great for france) ECs, and very mediocre SATs. Got a STRIDE. So I truly believe that Smith looks beyond the test scores.</p>
<p>That submission of SAT scores is required for merit candidates doesn't mean that they are more important than other factors; LiT, your post indicates that your D DID submit scores. I assume, however, the students receiving big money awards (Zollman) come with both strong grades and strong scores - - the purpose of merit money, after all, is to entice top candidates who, otherwise, might enroll elsewhere.</p>
<p>^Definitely. I too know of people with good (but not great) test scores who got scholarships.</p>