As I was researching colleges I want to go to (prospective accounting major), I noticed that none of them require the redesigned SAT (2016) with the optional essay. None of them require SAT Subject Tests either, however I will still take the Math Level 2 one because I am proficient in the subjects tested on the Math Level 2 exam and I am confident that I will get above a 700. Nevertheless, I am not as confident in my essay writing skills, and that fact along with with the fact that none of the schools I am interested in require it is making me think twice about taking the SAT with the essay. However, I have heard that if you take it, admissions officers will appreciate that you challenged yourself and if you do well they will take that into consideration. All advice would be appreciated thank you!! Keep in mind I will be applying to selective schools like Cornell and NYU also.
If you intend to apply to any college that requires writing, you need to take it. If none of the the colleges to which you intend to apply require the writing section, you do not need to take it and there is no “challenging yourself” aspect to consider. Most of those that do not require the writing section have made a conscious decison not to use it for any purpose in admission, and the only thing submitting a test with writing will show is that you are likely applying to other colleges that require it.
Only take it if colleges require it. If you are not a good writer, the essay score will hurt your overall writing score. If you can secure over an 8 on the essay (at the very least) then go for it. I don’t think that it would help your application much since your colleges don’t require it. It won’t make you look like you challenged yourself; it will just show how good/bad of a writer you are. If your score would be better without the essay, don’t take the essay.
If the colleges that interest you do not require the SAT Essay, don’t take it. You will save a little money and a little time.
Although the schools you are applying to do not require an essay, I think you should take the SAT with writing because it may give you an extra boost on your application. Keep practicing, and you’ll be able to get a good score. Good luck!