North Star Admissions Consulting

JUNE 24, 2025

Tests are back. Although the majority of schools are still (technically) test optional , there is definitely a notable shift towards the submission of standardized tests. Today, I will answer one of the most common questions that I get this time of year: “ What college admissions trends are you seeing?”

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Top Tier Admissions

MARCH 18, 2025

This occurred even though ACT subject tests remained relatively stagnant. CAUSES OF GRADE INFLATION While there is no definitive study on the causes of grade inflation, several cultural changes around school achievement can be considered. In fact, ACT scores even dropped a bit in some areas. The tables below show this phenomenon.

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AdmissionSight

JANUARY 10, 2025

As one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, VSU is definitely one of the top choices. And for those who break into a cold sweat at the mention of standardized tests, good news: GMU is test-optional , so your SAT or ACT scores arent a dealbreaker. The middle 50% of accepted students have cumulative GPAs ranging from 3.3

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Peterson's Blog

JANUARY 16, 2025

As one of the first high school standardized tests a student takes, the PSAT can set the stage for teenagers’ expectations of themselves and future exams. The test is a critical milestone for expressing academic and college readiness; your students’ confidence on test day often reflects how well-prepared they are.

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AdmissionSight

JUNE 7, 2025

The school’s commitment to making education more accessible definitely brings in more students, particularly those who might have otherwise been scared off by the hefty price tag. To get there, take plenty of practice tests and zero in on your weak spots. Another factor? Princeton’s ramped-up financial aid program.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 14, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). The University of Michigan is test-optional. While these factors may not weigh as heavily as academic factors, they can definitely help strengthen your application and showcase what makes you one of a kind. If your scores are strong, though, submitting them can definitely help.

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AdmissionSight

JANUARY 11, 2025

That means you can skip stressing over standardized test prep and tracking down teachers for letters. If you put in the effort, you definitely have a good shot! Its definitely a tough situation, but getting waitlisted means you were considered a strong candidate. What’s the vibe like at UC Davis?

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AdmissionSight

NOVEMBER 24, 2024

You can self-report test scores through the Common Application or Coalition on Scoir, and if admitted, you’ll need to send official reports. Keep in mind that this test-optional policy is temporary—standardized testing will be required again starting with the 2025–2026 cycle.

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AdmissionSight

JANUARY 20, 2025

Youre definitely not alone! Standardized test scores (optional). They accept both, but standardized test scores are optional. Even though its hard to get into Stanford with or without test scores, submitting your best results can only help. Dreaming of Stanford ? Extracurriculars. Interview (optional).

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AdmissionSight

JANUARY 15, 2025

Tips to Improve Your GPA If you still have enough time, you should definitely try to get your GPA up ! Perform well on standardized tests. These tests demonstrate your academic aptitude and readiness for college-level work. On top of that, a higher GPA can also give you more opportunities for other schools.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). UT Austin remains test-optional for Spring 2025 applicants. Some factors, like volunteer work, first-generation status, and character/personal qualities, are definitely considered in your application but arent dealbreakers. UT Austin wants to know about the quality of your involvement.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 1, 2025

Spoiler alert: its not all about being a straight-A student (though that definitely helps). Considered These factors dont hold the same weight as the more important ones, but they still play a role in rounding out your application: Standardized test scores. So, lets break down what Cornell looks for in an applicant.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 26, 2025

Plenty of schools accept students with this score, and many have test-optional policies, meaning you can focus on strengthening other parts of your application if your SAT score isnt as competitive as youd like. If you believe you can improve your SAT score, retaking the test could open more opportunities. Should You Retake the SAT?

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The Koppelman Group

DECEMBER 21, 2024

We definitely recommend using at least one of these. Its smart to submit scores.) Optional rec letters, youre allowed one professional, one personal, and one academic. Syllabi for current classes (to award credit if you get in) And some wisdom for you, if youre aiming to transfer to BU, strong grades and smart course choices are key.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 14, 2025

The University of Florida acceptance rate definitely proves its not easy to get a spot. The numbers may not scream Ivy, but the competition is definitely up there. So, if you’re applying now, test scores are officially back on the table. No wonder everyone wants to go there! So, whats behind these tough numbers?

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The Koppelman Group

APRIL 12, 2025

At private colleges, especially southern private colleges, we find that legacy is still a big deal, and it definitely is at Vanderbilt. The idea that legacy students are held to the same standard should be a given we see this at most other top colleges but its not because Vanderbilt believes in creating a more equitable process.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 7, 2025

With an REA rate of 15%, early birds definitely catch more worms, leaving fewer spots open for RD hopefuls. Target standardized test scores Take note that Notre Dame has a test-optional policy i n place through at least the 2025-26 admissions cycle. But, youre definitely going to need impressive numbers to stand out.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 19, 2025

A 770 SAT score is definitely on the lower end, which means it could limit your college options if youre applying to schools that still weigh your SAT scores heavily. When you dont need to retake the SAT Not every school requires SAT scores, and many are moving away from standardized testing altogether.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 7, 2025

for the Class of 2028, so the competition is definitely heating up. While Rice is test-optional, strong scores can help your application stand out and show that youre ready for the schools challenging academics. This year, they got 2,970 ED applications and accepted 391 students, which works out to a 13.2% ED acceptance rate.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 1, 2025

Standardized test scores. UC Berkeley is test-free, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the application review process. This means standardized tests are not required for admission, and your application will be reviewed holistically, focusing on your GPA, coursework, extracurriculars, and PIQ responses.

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AdmissionSight

JANUARY 18, 2025

Step 3: Make your test scores count. Standardized test scores arent everything, but they can definitely give you an edge. This isnt a place for overcomplicated jargon. Typos and grammar mistakes can undercut a strong application. If youre submitting SAT or ACT scores, aim for the 99th percentile: SAT. 1530 or higher.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 12, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). Wellesley is test-optional , so submitting SAT or ACT scores is up to you. While these factors may not weigh as heavily as academic ones, they can definitely help strengthen your application and show what makes you unique. Can I get into Wellesley with low test scores?

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 3, 2025

The schools exclusivity definitely makes things harder for applicants. Target test scores Even though NYU is test-optional, strong SAT or ACT scores can still give your application an extra edge. Standardized tests (optional). The chances arent impossible, but theyre definitely slim. Audition or portfolio.

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AdmissionSight

JUNE 20, 2025

Even with a few ups and downs, the steady number of applicants and tighter acceptance rates show that getting into Pomona is definitely becoming more competitive.</p> </p> <p class="ai-optimize-330">In contrast, Early Decision applicants have a higher acceptance rate.

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Top Tier Admissions

MARCH 13, 2025

Small adjustments, like upping sports recruitment for football teams and prioritizing standardized test results (which tend to be slightly higher for men) can tip the scales towards increasing male enrollment. At Brown University, about 12,000 more women than men applied for admission in 2023, but 14 more men than women were admitted.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 23, 2025

No school is perfect, and BC definitely has its downsides, but most of them have workarounds or things to consider before you enroll. On standardized tests , 91.99% scored between 1400 and 1600 on the SAT, and 98.9% Cons of Boston College Now lets talk about the flipside of the Boston College pros and cons coin.

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AdmissionSight

JUNE 6, 2025

But there’s definitely a quiet, behind-the-scenes competition going on as both schools regularly land spots on top college rankings like U.S. Unlike the legendary matchups like Harvard vs. Yale or Stanford vs. UC Berkeley , the Northwestern vs Cornell rivalry isn’t loud or widely talked about. Some might even say it doesn’t exist at all.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 16, 2025

Target standardized test scores Carnegie Mellon has a test-optional policy in place through at least the 2025-26 admissions cycle, meaning you wont be required to submit ACT or SAT scores when you apply. That said, if youre planning to submit test scores, its important to aim high.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 3, 2025

Plenty of schools accept students with this score, and many have test-optional policies, meaning you can focus on strengthening other parts of your application if your SAT score isnt as competitive as youd like. If you believe you can improve your SAT score, retaking the test could open more opportunities. Should You Retake the SAT?

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 28, 2025

If youre applying, youll definitely need to bring your A-game! Standardized test scores (optional). Northeastern is test-optional , so SAT and ACT scores are not required. If standardized testing is not your strong suit, you can absolutely stand out in other areas. If not, no stress.

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The Koppelman Group

APRIL 24, 2025

Quick definition time! They say the policy is test flexible, which means AP and IB scores are accepted, but we dont think thats a successful strategy. Yale reinstated standardized testing (along with a few other Ivies) because the data is clear: strong test scores are one of the best predictors of college success.

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The Koppelman Group

JANUARY 21, 2025

You should feel comfortable leaving this blank, but definitely brainstorm for a bit because its ideal if you can find something that is a good fit. Standardized testing is optional, but encouraged (by us) if you have strong scores that underline your academic achievements. And, finally, the SAT or ACT.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 16, 2025

Standardized test scores. Unlike test-optional schools , Georgetown requires either the SAT or ACT. If youre aiming to stand out, exceeding these minimums and taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes will definitely give your application an edge. Submit strong SAT/ACT scores.

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College Essay Guy

FEBRUARY 19, 2025

Speaking of, pro tip: you should definitely be reusing scholarship essays when possible, and its frequently possible.) Academic performance: While essays arent required, some no essay scholarships may still have a minimum requirement for your GPA or standardized test scores. accredited college or university).

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 12, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). Vanderbilt is test-optional , but strong scores can add a little sparkle to your application. aiming for 21 units will definitely set you apart. Vanderbilt is test-optional, meaning you only need to submit scores if you feel theyll enhance your application. No problem.

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AdmissionSight

APRIL 22, 2025

A 780 SAT score is definitely on the lower end, which means it could limit your college options if youre applying to schools that still weigh your SAT scores heavily. When you dont need to retake the SAT Not every school requires SAT scores, and many are moving away from standardized testing altogether.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 12, 2025

Standardized testing. BC is test-optional. BC is test-optional, so you dont have to submit SAT or ACT scores. But if youve got strong scores, its definitely worth sending them in since BC superscores both tests, meaning they take your best section scores across multiple test dates.

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