I’m about to apply to several moderately selective liberal arts colleges on the west coast, including Whitman, Lewis & Clark, and Pitzer. Most of the schools I’m applying to don’t require SAT or ACT scores, though they’ll consider any scores that are submitted. I’m in the top 5% of my class with a 4.0 GPA, and I think I can put together an appealing portfolio. But my composite score on the ACT is only a 24, which obviously is not ideal. Should I include my test scores, or should I just stick with my transcript and portfolio?
My vote is do not send.
I have heard admissions officers from a few different test optional colleges say that an applicant should send standardized tests only if they are at or above the school’s average.
I’d suggest not sending those. The next question is whether not having scores would significantly impact on acceptance in a negative way. That may depend upon other factors such as whether you are a full pay student. If so, then not having scores may not be held against you as long as you are viewed as an eligible student from the standpoint of your other credentials.