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How Much Does The SAT Matter?

SAT
How Much Does The SAT Matter?
Arun Khemani

By Arun Khemani

Crackd Cofounder

How Much Does The SAT Matter?

A full guide to colleges’ ever-changing standardized testing policies.
The SAT, once considered a cornerstone of college admissions, faced a steep decline during the pandemic as test-optional and even test-blind policies became the norm. However, recent trends reveal a persistent resurgence in SAT participation and a renewed emphasis on standardized testing at some elite institutions. While many colleges remain test-optional, submitting SAT or ACT scores provides significant advantages for students navigating an increasingly competitive admissions landscape.

The Numbers

The pandemic caused a sharp drop in SAT participation, with only 1.5 million students taking the test in 2021 compared to 2.1 million in 2020. However, participation has steadily rebounded as schools and students adapt to new testing formats and accessibility initiatives. In 2024, nearly 2 million students took the SAT, with much of this growth fueled by SAT School Day programs, which allow students to take the test during school hours for free.

The Reason

Studies from Dartmouth College reveal that standardized test scores are twice as predictive of first-year college GPA compared to high school transcripts alone. For STEM-focused programs, this correlation is even stronger, with SAT math scores serving as a reliable indicator of success in rigorous technical fields.
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The Trend

As grade inflation becomes more prevalent (with GPAs rising by 27% since 2020), standardized tests offer a rare metric for comparing applicants across different schools and regions. For now, submitting strong test scores remains one of the most effective ways for students to stand out in an increasingly competitive admissions process. By understanding how and when to use standardized tests strategically, students can navigate this evolving landscape with confidence—leveraging their scores not just as numbers but as tools to tell their unique academic stories.
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(*Approximate percentages based on institutional reporting and policy analysis.)

Favoring the Wealthy

Even as test-optional policies dominate, research shows that submitting SAT or ACT scores can provide tangible benefits for applicants. Still, while test-optional policies aim to reduce barriers for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, research suggests that these policies may inadvertently favor wealthier applicants:
  • Wealthier families often have access to private college counselors who advise them on whether to submit scores strategically.
  • Low-income students are less likely to get outside help, as only about one-sixth of students pay for SAT tutoring.
To address this disparity, some organizations are working to make test preparation more accessible and affordable. For instance, platforms like crackd provide personalized SAT prep at significantly lower costs than traditional tutoring services or expensive courses, while delivering results that are on par with—and in many cases better than—traditional prep. This ensures that all students—regardless of their economic background—have access to high-quality tutoring and resources for a few dollars per day.

More Benefits

  • 72% of merit-based scholarships still require standardized test scores.
  • Students who submit scores are shown to have 19% higher retention rates at selective colleges compared to those who do not submit scores.

SAT School Day Programs

A significant driver of the SAT's resurgence is the expansion of SAT School Day programs, which allow students to take the test during school hours at no cost:
  • In 2023, 67% of all SAT participants took advantage of these programs.
  • States like Florida and Michigan reported participation rates exceeding 80%, ensuring broader access for students who might otherwise face logistical or financial barriers.

Strategic Advice for Students

For students navigating test-optional policies, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can still be a game-changer:
  • Submit if your score is above the median: For example, if your target school’s middle SAT range is 1200–1350, submitting a score of 1400+ can set you apart.
  • Importance for STEM programs: Schools like MIT and Caltech emphasize standardized tests for STEM applicants due to their predictive value for success in technical fields.
  • Take advantage of fee waivers: Low-income students can take up to four free SATs through College Board’s fee waiver program.

Bibliography

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