Standardized Testing Policy Update

STANDARDIZED TESTING POLICY UPDATE
SAT or ACT Required Beginning with the Fall 2027 Entering Class
Last updated: January 7, 2026

PAGE SUMMARY
Goal Get It! will reinstate its standardized testing requirement for applicants to the Fall 2027 entering class and beyond. Applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores. In exceptional cases where the SAT/ACT is not reasonably accessible, certain other externally assessed exams (such as AP, IB, GCSE/A-Level, or national leaving exams) may be used to meet the requirement. English language proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) do not satisfy the standardized testing requirement (though they may be submitted as additional application materials where relevant). Students may self-report standardized test scores.

1. THE POLICY
   Starting with applicants for the Fall 2027 entering class, Goal Get It! requires standardized test scores as part of the admission process.
   
   

To meet the standardized testing requirement, applicants must submit:
• SAT scores OR
• ACT scores

Students may self-report their standardized test scores during the application process. If admitted and enrolling, students will be asked to provide official scores for verification.

We are reinstating this requirement while continuing to evaluate every applicant through a holistic, context-aware review.

2. WHY WE MADE THIS DECISION
   We recognize that reinstating a testing requirement can feel counterintuitive—especially after several years in which “test-optional” policies were intended to increase access. Our decision reflects new insights, including research led by the Goal Get It! Office of Admissions, that supports the careful use of standardized tests as one helpful measure of academic preparation and future success.
   
   

A) What our research and experience showed
Our internal analyses confirm that standardized test results can add meaningful information when considered together with:
• High school grades and academic trends
• Course rigor and the curriculum available at a student’s school
• Academic letters of recommendation
• Writing and other required application components
• The context of a student’s educational opportunities and lived experiences

In particular, we find that standardized test scores can help predict college performance and post-college outcomes—especially when used as one factor among many and interpreted in context rather than as a standalone “gatekeeper.”

B) Why test-optional can unintentionally disadvantage underrepresented applicants
Many people assume test-optional automatically removes a barrier. In practice, test-optional can create a new set of barriers—ones that are less visible, but still real. Here are key reasons this can happen:

1. When applicants can choose whether to submit scores, “who submits” is not random
   When testing is optional, students who submit scores are often those who believe their scores will strengthen their application. This can skew the score-submitting group toward students with:
   • More access to guidance on admissions strategy
   • More access to tutoring or test prep
   • More familiarity with how selective admissions works
   As a result, the absence of a score can be interpreted in different ways, even if that interpretation is unintended.
   
   

2. Uncertainty and mixed advice can lead strong students not to submit
   When a policy is optional, applicants must make a strategic choice. Students with fewer advising resources may be more likely to:
   • Misjudge whether their scores would help
   • Receive inconsistent guidance about what “optional” really means
   • Worry that a score that is “good” might still be “not good enough,” and choose to withhold it
   This uncertainty can disproportionately affect students from low-income backgrounds and students who attend under-resourced schools.
   
   

3. Test-optional can shift weight onto other components that reflect opportunity gaps
   When scores are missing for many applicants, an admissions process may rely more heavily on other elements that can be shaped by unequal access, such as:
   • The range of extracurricular options at a school or in a community
   • Access to enrichment programs, internships, research, or unpaid opportunities
   • The availability of specialized college counseling
   • The ability to craft polished application materials with extensive feedback
   We value these materials, but we also recognize that access to them is not evenly distributed.
   
   

4. Scores can serve as an additional “signal of readiness,” particularly for students whose schools have fewer advanced offerings
   For applicants whose schools offer fewer AP/IB/advanced courses, or whose transcripts must be read in a context of limited opportunities, a standardized test score can provide additional information about academic readiness that might not be fully visible from the transcript alone.
   
   

C) What we believe is the most equitable approach
We believe a clear, universal expectation—paired with practical flexibility for students who cannot reasonably access the SAT/ACT—is the fairest approach.

Requiring scores beginning with Fall 2027 helps us:
• Reduce strategic guesswork for applicants and families
• Evaluate applicants with a more consistent set of academic information
• Identify academic strength that may not be fully reflected by unequal school resources
• Avoid unintentionally penalizing students who would benefit from submitting scores but hesitate under an “optional” framework

We also want to be explicit: standardized tests are not perfect measures, and we do not treat them that way. We use them carefully, as part of a comprehensive review, and we will continue to invest in policies and practices that promote access.

3. HOW TO MEET THE STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIREMENT
   A) Primary way to meet the requirement
   Submit SAT or ACT scores.
   
   

B) Self-reporting
Students may self-report SAT or ACT scores on their application.

C) Verification after admission (for enrolling students)
If you are admitted and choose to enroll, you will be asked to submit official score reports for verification. (Instructions and deadlines will be provided in your admission portal.)

4. EXCEPTIONAL CASES: WHEN SAT/ACT IS NOT REASONABLY ACCESSIBLE
   In exceptional cases—when the SAT or ACT is not accessible for a student—ONE of the following may meet the requirement:
   
   

• AP exam results
• IB actual or predicted scores
• GCSE/A-Level actual or predicted results
• National Leaving Exam results (externally assessed) or predictions

What counts as an “exceptional case”?
Exceptional cases typically involve circumstances such as:
• Significant challenges paying for the SAT/ACT
• Inability to access a test site
• Being unable to secure an available seat at a test site prior to the Regular Decision deadline

Important notes about exceptional cases
• The Admissions Committee does not expect applicants to take extraordinary measures to access SAT/ACT testing.
• Applicants will have an opportunity to explain why they are unable to submit SAT or ACT scores.
• Students who have other forms of testing listed above (AP, IB, GCSE, national leaving exams) are still expected to take an SAT or ACT and submit those scores if financial considerations or test availability would not limit their ability to do so.

5. WHAT DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENT
   English language proficiency exams such as:
   • TOEFL
   • IELTS
   • Duolingo English Test
   cannot be used to meet the standardized testing requirement.
   
   

Students are welcome to submit English proficiency exam results for review as part of their application materials, but they do not replace SAT/ACT (or the approved exceptional-case alternatives listed above).

6. FEE WAIVERS AND FINANCIAL BARRIERS
   If the cost of taking the SAT or ACT is a concern:
   • The College Board and ACT provide fee waivers to some domestic students from low-income families.
   • Students who are non-U.S. citizens attending secondary schools outside the U.S. are not typically eligible for SAT or ACT fee waivers.
   
   

If you are ineligible for fee waivers but still face financial hardship:
We still encourage you to apply. We encourage students in this situation to take and submit results from other standardized tests to which they have greater access, such as AP results, GCSE results, or IB/A-level/national leaving exam predictions or results, along with an explanation of constraints.

7. DETAILED Q&A (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)
   
   

A. TIMELINE AND WHO IS AFFECTED

1. Who must submit test scores under this policy?
   All applicants to the Fall 2027 entering class and beyond must meet the standardized testing requirement.
   
   

2. Does this apply to earlier entering classes?
   No. This policy applies beginning with the Fall 2027 entering class. Applicants to earlier cycles should follow the policies published for their respective application year.
   
   

3. When should I take the SAT or ACT?
   Plan to test early enough that you can report results by your application deadline. If access or scheduling issues prevent this, you may use the exceptional-case pathway and explain your circumstances in the application.
   
   

4. What if I register for the SAT/ACT but my test is canceled or I can’t get a seat?
   We understand that test availability can be unpredictable. If you cannot reasonably test before the deadline due to cancellations, lack of seats, or travel constraints, explain this in your application. You may meet the requirement using one of the approved alternatives (AP/IB/GCSE/A-Level/national leaving exams) if applicable.
   
   

5. Will applying Early Decision/Early Action change the testing requirement?
   The testing requirement applies to the entering class cohort. You should plan testing around whichever deadline you choose. If you cannot test before an early deadline due to access constraints, explain it and provide approved alternative results if needed.
   
   

B. WHAT TO SUBMIT AND HOW SUBMISSION WORKS

6. Can I self-report my SAT/ACT scores?
   Yes. You may self-report your standardized test scores on your application.
   
   

7. Will you require official scores when I apply?
   For application review, self-reporting is acceptable. If you are admitted and choose to enroll, you will be required to submit official scores for verification.
   
   

8. What if my self-reported score is slightly different from the official score report?
   Small reporting mistakes can happen. However, substantial discrepancies may raise concerns. If you realize you reported incorrectly, notify the admissions office as soon as possible.
   
   

9. Do you have a minimum required score?
   We do not evaluate applicants based on a single cutoff score. Scores are considered as one piece of a holistic review and are interpreted in context.
   
   

10. If my score is not as strong as I hoped, should I still apply?
    Yes. A score is one part of your application, not the whole story. We review your academic record, course rigor, recommendations, and the context of your opportunities alongside testing.
    
    

11. If my score improves later, can I update it?
    In many cases, yes, as long as the update arrives by the deadline communicated by the admissions office for your application plan. If you are testing again, plan ahead and monitor your portal for instructions.
    
    

12. Do you prefer the SAT or the ACT?
    No. We accept either exam to satisfy the requirement.
    
    

C. EXCEPTIONAL ACCESS CASES AND ALTERNATIVE EXAMS

13. If I have AP/IB/GCSE/A-Level or national leaving exam results, do I still need the SAT/ACT?
    In general, yes. Students with these exams are still expected to take and submit the SAT or ACT if cost or test availability would not limit their ability to do so.
    
    

14. When can AP/IB/GCSE/A-Level/national leaving exams be used instead of SAT/ACT?
    Only in exceptional cases where the SAT/ACT is not reasonably accessible (for example, unaffordable even after pursuing available supports, or no test seats before the deadline). In these cases, ONE approved alternative category may meet the requirement, along with an explanation in the application.
    
    

15. What counts as “not reasonably accessible”?
    Common situations include:
    • You cannot access an SAT/ACT test site without unreasonable travel or hardship
    • No available seats exist prior to the deadline
    • Severe financial hardship prevents testing (including when you are ineligible for fee waivers)
    We do not expect applicants to take extraordinary measures.
    
    

16. How do I explain that I can’t access the SAT/ACT?
    You will have an opportunity within the application to provide context. Be specific about what barriers you faced (cost, travel, seat availability, timing). You do not need to share private information beyond what is necessary to explain the obstacle.
    
    

17. If I’m using predicted scores (like predicted IB or A-level results), is that acceptable?
    Yes, predicted scores are acceptable for the approved alternative exams in exceptional access cases.
    
    

18. Will you penalize me for needing to use the exceptional-case pathway?
    No. The exceptional-case policy exists to ensure that students are not excluded due to circumstances outside their control. We evaluate your application holistically.
    
    

D. ENGLISH PROFICIENCY EXAMS

19. Can TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo replace SAT/ACT?
    No. English language proficiency tests cannot be used to meet the standardized testing requirement.
    
    

20. Should I still submit English proficiency scores if English is not my first language?
    If your application requires or recommends English proficiency materials, you should submit them. Even when optional, you may submit them for context. They are reviewed separately from standardized testing for admission.
    
    

E. EQUITY, FAIRNESS, AND HOW SCORES ARE USED

21. Why does Goal Get It! believe a testing requirement can support equity?
    Because it reduces strategic uncertainty and helps ensure we have a comparable academic data point across applicants—while still allowing flexibility when access is not feasible. When tests are optional, students with fewer advising resources may be more likely to withhold scores that could help them, and the review process can place greater weight on other components that reflect opportunity gaps.
    
    

22. Are standardized tests biased or unfair?
    Standardized tests have limitations and do not measure every form of talent or potential. That is why Goal Get It! does not use tests alone to make decisions. We interpret scores in context and alongside your academic record, your school environment, and your opportunities. Our goal is not to “rank” students by a number, but to better understand readiness and potential.
    
    

23. If test prep is expensive, won’t this hurt low-income students?
    We recognize that paid test prep is not equally accessible. However, we do not expect applicants to have expensive preparation. We also encourage students to pursue fee waivers where eligible and to use the exceptional-case alternatives when SAT/ACT access is limited. Our review process considers context and opportunity; we do not assume that a lower score reflects lower potential.
    
    

24. Does this mean you will care less about grades or coursework?
    No. Your transcript and academic program remain central to our evaluation. Standardized testing is an additional data point, not a replacement for sustained academic performance.
    
    

25. What does “in context” actually mean?
    It means we evaluate academic information with an understanding of your environment: the courses available at your school, grading systems, educational disruptions, family responsibilities, access to enrichment, and other factors that shape your opportunities.
    
    

F. ACCESS, ACCOMMODATIONS, AND PRACTICAL CONCERNS

26. What if I need testing accommodations?
    If you have a documented need for accommodations, we encourage you to request them through the testing agency as early as possible. If accommodations are not approved in time or prevent access before a deadline, explain your situation in your application and use the exceptional-case pathway if needed.
    
    

27. What if I live far from any test center?
    We do not expect extraordinary travel. If distance, transportation, or safety concerns make testing unreasonable, explain this in your application. If available, submit approved alternative exams (AP/IB/GCSE/A-level/national leaving exams).
    
    

28. What if my school or region has limited test dates or frequent cancellations?
    Explain the limitation, including timing and availability. If needed, use the exceptional-case pathway.
    
    

29. What if I can only take the test once?
    That is okay. We do not require multiple attempts. Submit what you have, and focus on presenting the fullest academic picture in the rest of your application.
    
    

30. What if I have a disruption (illness, family emergency) that affects testing?
    We understand that life happens. Use the application to explain the circumstance and, if necessary, meet the requirement via an approved alternative in exceptional cases.
    
    

G. INTERNATIONAL AND DIFFERENT CURRICULA

31. I am an international applicant. Do I still need SAT/ACT?
    Yes—unless you fall into an exceptional access case. If access is limited, you may meet the requirement with approved alternatives such as IB, A-levels/GCSE, or national leaving exams (actual or predicted), along with an explanation.
    
    

32. My country’s national leaving exams are the main standardized exams we take. Can those count?
    Yes, national leaving exam results (externally assessed) or predictions can meet the requirement in exceptional cases when SAT/ACT is not reasonably accessible.
    
    

33. If I have strong national exam results, will you still expect SAT/ACT?
    If SAT/ACT cost and availability would not limit your ability to take it, we still expect SAT/ACT submission. If access is limited, use the exceptional-case pathway.
    
    

H. AFTER ADMISSION

34. If I’m admitted, what happens next with scores?
    If you enroll, you will be asked to submit official score reports for verification. The process and timeline will be provided in your portal.
    
    

35. Can my admission be revoked over testing?
    We expect self-reported information to be accurate. Significant misrepresentation may lead to revocation. If you make an honest mistake, contact us as soon as possible so we can correct it.
    
    

36. If I’m admitted using the exceptional-case pathway, will you later require SAT/ACT anyway?
    No. If you were approved to meet the requirement through an alternative exam due to documented access constraints, we will not later require SAT/ACT for enrollment solely because it was not submitted—unless there is a specific verification concern that requires follow-up.
    
    

37. NEED HELP? CONTACT ADMISSIONS
    We know policies can feel stressful—especially when your access to testing is shaped by factors outside your control. If you have questions about your situation or how to meet the requirement, contact the Goal Get It! Office of Admissions.

The Office of Admissions and the Lu Office of Financial Aid at Goal Get It!

Goal Get It! Office of Admissions
Email: admissions@goalgetit.org | Phone: (626) 559-1589

Goal Get It! Lu Office of Financial Aid
Email: financialaid@goalgetit.org | Phone: (320) 364-4860

Goal Get It! is need-blind in its admissions process.
The Office of Admissions operates separately from the Lu Office of Financial Aid.