Introduction

With more colleges going test-optional, many parents and students are asking:
“Is it still worth taking the ACT?”

It’s a fair question — and the answer might surprise you.

Even if ACT scores aren’t required, submitting strong scores can still give your student a competitive edge in admissions, scholarships, and more. In this article, we’ll break down:

• What test-optional really means
• When ACT scores still help
• How to decide if your child should take the test

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What Does “Test-Optional” Actually Mean?

Test-optional means students are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores — but if they do, those scores will be considered in the admissions process.

That’s different from test-blind, which means the school won’t look at test scores at all (no matter what).

Example:

• University of Michigan is test-optional — you can submit scores, and they will consider them.
• UC Berkeley is test-blind — they will ignore scores completely.

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5 Reasons Why Taking the ACT Is Still Worth It

1. It Can Strengthen Your Application

A solid ACT score:

• Shows academic readiness
• Offsets a lower GPA or limited extracurriculars
• Helps you stand out if you’re applying from a competitive high school

2. Merit Scholarships Often Require Scores

Many colleges still use ACT scores to award:

• Merit-based scholarships
• Honors college invitations
• Special programs and grants

Some scholarship applications are “test-optional,” but score submission can tip the scales in your favor.

3. It May Be Required for Out-of-State Schools

Not all public universities are test-blind. Many — especially outside California — remain test-optional, but still use scores:

• University of Florida
• University of Georgia
• University of Texas
• Ohio State
• University of Wisconsin

If your child is applying broadly, taking the ACT keeps options open.

4. It Helps With Course Placement

Some schools use ACT scores for:

• Math or English placement
• Skipping intro courses
• Satisfying graduation requirements early

That can mean fewer classes — and saved tuition.

5. It’s Low-Risk, High Reward

If your child doesn’t do well, they can simply choose not to submit the score. But if they do great? That score becomes a powerful admissions and scholarship tool.

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Who Should Definitely Consider Taking the ACT?

• Students with a strong GPA and strong test-taking skills who want to stand out
• Students applying to competitive schools or programs
• Students who need scholarships to make college affordable
• Students unsure where they want to apply and want maximum flexibility

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How to Decide

If your child…	Then…
Has strong grades but isn’t a confident test-taker	Maybe skip or try a diagnostic first
Is aiming for competitive or out-of-state schools	Take the ACT
Needs financial aid or scholarship money	Definitely take it
Wants to apply broadly or early decision	Take it early and see if it helps

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We Help Students Make Smart Testing Decisions

If you’re unsure whether the ACT is the right move for your child, we can help evaluate:

• Diagnostic test results
• Application goals
• Strengths and weaknesses

Once we decide to move forward, we provide live virtual ACT prep classes to build test confidence, improve scores, and open doors.

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Let’s find the path that’s right for your child.
We help students understand their strengths and choose the right path — join our remote ACT class to get started.

Contact us today at (408) 800-6268‬ or ascendprepacademy@gmail.com to learn more or schedule a free consultation