My SAT scores are lower than the average (50%) of admitted applicants in UChicago. However, if I’m not mistaken, UChicago no longer requires standardized test scores like the SAT. Would it be better to just lay off? Also, would there be any “catch” for choosing not to submit scores (e.g. the applicant must fulfill something else if they opt not to send scores)?
I may be going out on a limb here but I think it depends on your background. Test optional in my opinion was designed to encourage students to apply who have not had the good fortune to avail themselves of test prep and multiple sittings for standardized tests. If you are not from an underfunded school environment, then I believe test optional is not an option for you.
Not necessarily your backgroud. Your chances are ok (if there’s ever any “ok” for any tippy top,) if the whole rest of your record shows the superiority they want. That includes academics and activities, but is a LOT more than grades and some club titles.
It behooves any applicant to confirm whether a college is TO, not go on hearsay. And know your match, not just what you want.
Note that there is probably a difference between the average of admitted applicants vs matriculated. The admitted applicants probably have a higher score. But either way as long as you’re within the 25-75th percentiles, I would probably submit the score.
If you’re below the 25th percentile, and have a good hook, then it probably makes sense to omit the testing.
There is an example of a person from last cycle who was admitted test optional. She posted her profile on this forum. Search, and I’m sure you can find her. The applicant was otherwise stellar except her scores. She was a URM and faced adversity, so her story really resonated.
Anyone who has scored above the 25th percentile of admitted students probably doesn’t have to worry about test scores eliminating them from consideration. At that point they will be looking at other parts of the application. If you opt NOT to submit, you need to have a good reason. UChicago went TO in order to increase access from a category of applicant who, while outstanding in other aspects, simply didn’t have the resources (time, financial, etc.) to test prep. It should tell you something that they offered TO within the context of the Empower Initiative; however, they don’t restrict TO just to those from under-represented groups, at least theoretically.
The key (if there is such) might be whether your test scores reflect your level of academic preparedness. If they do, you should probably send them along.
Check out their FAQ’s for more helpful information: https://collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/contact/faq
Thanks for the helpful answers. I’ve made up my mind and decided to send my scores.
Interesting thread. My D21 may apply TO to U Chicago next year. She has no better reason than her scores NOT reflecting her academic preparedness. There are reasons other than lack of financial resources that make standardized testing a challenge for some people. General advice I’ve seen is if your stats are below the school’s 50% do not submit.
^@Techno13 - perhaps below the 50% midrange (ie the 25th percentile), I’d agree with you. But if you were referring to the “average” or median you need to keep in mind that 1) UChicago doesn’t report that number and 2) those scores will be inflated (a natural consequence of going TO). So be careful looking at score ranges or trying to arrive at some indicator of average test performance.
all scores are inflated due to TO. The advice I’ve seen is to send scores if you’re in the top 50% and not if you’re in the bottom 50%. If they don’t publish that number I guess you have to wing it. I’m not even saying I agree with it. I am completely unsure how to interpret TO. But on CC I’ve always seen the 50% guidance.
^ Techno13 - if everyone followed that guidance, then you’d see average scores approaching 36/1600 
sometimes I feel like we are seeing that! And yes I do understand the math-- I am passing on the advice I’ve seen.
My son wasn’t thrilled with one of his Subject Test scores and wasn’t sure whether or not to send it in. He emailed his Regional Admission Officer and asked him if he should send it in or not. The RAO told him to send it. Not quite the same thing as an SAT score, but it worked out well for my son.
A dean of admissions put it this way, to my kiddo: “Do you feel your scores refelect your successes in hs and what you will accomplish in college?”
But “match” is a lot more than stats. And I think you can count on UChicago, in particular, to continue to be rigorous about whom they admit.
Btw, before assuming score ranges are ONLY for kids who did submit them with their apps, you want to check how the college describes this.
“Btw, before assuming score ranges are ONLY for kids who did submit them with their apps, you want to check how the college describes this.”
-Good point. Bowdoin, for example, does require that you submit a score if you opt to matriculate. UChicago doesn’t (or at least didn’t for the Class of '23).