The language colleges use about testing can also tell you a lot about how they actually view scores:
Strongly Test-Optional—Clear Message That You’re Not Penalized
Bowdoin College
“Testing is optional. Applicants are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by submitting standardized test scores.”
Smith College
“Testing is not required for admission. We will not consider scores if you choose not to submit them.”
Wake Forest University
“Our holistic approach to admissions means that your decision to submit standardized test scores is entirely yoursand you will not be penalized if you do not submit scores.”
These schools go out of their way to reassure applicants that test scores are truly optional—and non-submitters are on totally equal footing.
Middle Ground—We Don’t Require Them, But They Can Help
Boston University
“If you submit standardized test scores, they will be considered as part of your application, but students who do not submit scores are not penalized in the admissions process.”
Tufts University
“Students who do not submit scores are considered with the same level of scrutiny and care as those who do.”
This language supports a genuine test-optional approach while also signaling that scores, when submitted, are helpful data points.
Test-Preferred—Subtle (or Not-So-Subtle) Encouragement to Submit
University of Michigan
“Applicants who have taken standardized tests are encouraged to submit them. Those who do not submit scores will not be disadvantaged in the review process.”
This language doesn’t require testing, but it makes clear that scores are viewed as useful. The phrase “encouraged to submit” is a strong indicator that the school finds value in them.