Standardized Test

UC professors have signed a joint letter calling for STEM applicants to submit SAT or ACT math scores starting in 2027–28, challenging UC's long-standing test-blind policy. UC has yet to respond, but pressure is mounting, and test scores may soon become a UC admissions requirement.

AP scores can be reported at the student's discretion and are not required to be sent to colleges. If you did poorly, there's no need to pay to cancel the score. Simply choose not to report it. Subjects with a 1–3 can be left unreported, and there's no need to cancel them. If you want to use scores for college credit, check the minimum score requirements of your target schools in advance.

The 2026 AP exams run May 4–8 and 11–15, with finals week falling between May 18 and June 5. The recommendation is to prioritize finals and start reviewing for them immediately after AP exams end. Finals have a major impact on GPA, while AP scores are mainly used for college credit. Plan your time wisely and avoid overextending your review schedule.

After March SAT scores are released, the decision to switch to the ACT should be based on your score breakdown and personal strengths. The ACT tends to suit students with a strong math and science foundation, or those with fast and steady pacing. Students at different GPA levels can refer to corresponding ACT target score ranges. The recommended approach is to first analyze and build on your strengths and practice test performance before deciding whether to make the switch.

20-Day Countdown to the March SAT: Pinpoint weak areas, optimize your pacing, and complete final technical checks.

📌 Four Types of SAT Policies: Test Required: SAT scores must be submitted . Test Blind: Schools do not consider SAT scores at all —even...

The College Board has announced that starting in May 2025, 28 AP exams will be fully administered digitally through the Bluebook system. Standard paper-based exams will no longer be offered (except in rare cases with approved accommodations). How students can prepare for the new system and which subjects are not affected?