Over the past several years, hundreds of colleges have adopted test-optional , test-flexible, and test-blind admissions policies. For many students, that shift has brought relief. For others, it has created confusion. If colleges don't require test scores, why take the SAT or ACT at all? The reality is more nuanced. Test-optional does not mean test-blind, and for some students, submitting scores can still be an advantage. For others, skipping the test is the smarter choice. T

If you're a high school student with college aspirations or a parent supporting one, there's a fundamental truth you need to understand:...

Private colleges across the United States have expanded their merit-based aid programs in response to competition from public...