How to Submit Your Test Scores to Colleges: A Comprehensive Guide for 2023

The college application process can be a maze of forms, essays, and deadlines. Among the crucial components of your application are your test scores. Whether it's the SAT, ACT, AP, or any other standardized test, ensuring that colleges receive your scores is paramount. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process.

1. Know the Requirements:

Different colleges have varying requirements. Some might require the SAT, others the ACT, and some might even be test-optional. Before anything else, research your target colleges to understand their specific test score requirements.

2. Official Score Reports:

Most colleges require scores to be sent directly from the testing agency. This ensures the authenticity of the scores. For the SAT and AP exams, this would be the College Board. For the ACT, it's the ACT organization.

3. Sending Scores:

SAT & AP (College Board): Log into your College Board account, navigate to the 'Scores' section, and select the scores you wish to send. Choose the colleges from the list, and pay the necessary fees.

ACT: Log into your ACT account, go to the 'Send Your Scores' option, select the colleges, and complete the process.

4. Deadlines Matter:

Each college has its deadline for receiving test scores. Ensure you send your scores well in advance, considering it might take a few weeks for the college to process them.

5. Sending Multiple Scores:

If you've taken a test multiple times, some colleges allow you to send only your highest scores (Score Choice for the SAT). However, some colleges might require all test scores, so be sure to check their policies.

6. Fee Waivers:

For students with financial constraints, both the College Board and ACT offer fee waivers for sending scores to a limited number of colleges.

7. Check and Confirm:

After sending your scores, regularly check your account on the testing agency's website to confirm that the scores were sent. Additionally, many colleges provide online portals where applicants can check the status of their application materials, including test scores.

8. Rush Reporting:

If you're close to a deadline, both the College Board and ACT offer rush reporting services for an additional fee. This ensures that your scores are sent faster than the standard reporting time.

9. Test-Optional Colleges:

With the evolving landscape of college admissions, many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, especially in the wake of the pandemic. If you're applying to such colleges, you can choose whether or not to submit your test scores.

10. Seek Guidance:

If you're unsure about any aspect of sending your scores, consult your school counselor or reach out to the college's admissions office. They can provide clarity and guidance.

While the process of sending test scores might seem daunting, with careful planning and attention to detail, it can be seamlessly managed. At My Total Tutor, we're dedicated to guiding students through every facet of the college application journey, ensuring no stone is left unturned.