Another one time deal was released by --they are suspending their testing requirement and are test-optional for applicants for the class of 2025 (those applying during the 2020-2021 application cycle).

While it’s not surprising, as a number of other schools and half of the Ivies have instated similar policies, it’s still worth investigating. We are having ongoing conversations with our students and their families about what all of these policy updates mean for them, and for the future of college admissions. We want to share our views on the above with everyone.

In a blog post written by Lee Coffin, Vice Provost for Enrollment & Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Dartmouth, he writes about this “remarkable” moment that we find ourselves in (not sure we’d use that same word, but sure), and how Dartmouth is responding to College Board’s . He goes on to emphasize Dartmouth’s existing and ongoing commitment to a holistic application review and even goes so far as to say that the word “‘optional’ is not a trick word.” That’s bold! We sort of buy it, but here’s our transparent thinking on the matter: 

Yes, Dartmouth will still value testing.

This is unavoidable. And the blog post is clear that a test score will be evaluated and considered: “we will welcome any testing element a student chooses to share—the SAT, the ACT, a subject test, an AP score.” While it’s a big move, it’s hard to teach an old dog new tricks. We have no doubt that should you submit testing, it will help you. Lee does make explicit that they are encouraging just one sitting. So, if you’re incredibly anxious and losing sleep about how you’re going to re-take the ACT because you really COULD get a 35 if you tried, please breathe. It’s not worth your sanity.

If you’re an athlete, this is probably not applicable.

Dartmouth is careful to add at the end of this statement: “NOTE: Dartmouth will continue to follow the guidance and policies of the Ivy League regarding testing requirements for applicants who expect to participate in the varsity athletic program.” This means that things might be different for athletes, depending on how their athletic and admissions programs work.

One word, starts with E, two syllables: ESSAY

As we said above, this policy shift provides you with the flexibility and space to be able to focus your energy on the other parts of your application that matter. This means your essay, and crafting and contextualizing your extracurriculars, free time, and academic interests carefully. This means more time to read books on and dedicate time to the things that matter to you, and weaving that added knowledge into your application.

Just because the application policies are changing, that doesn’t mean that you should begin to feel less pressure on the strategy and energy that you are required to put into each aspect of your application.

We know that this changing information can be overwhelming and confusing so if you need some guidance.