NDA juniors will be taking the ACT next week, March 26, and the use of this test for their college admissions might be different from previous classes. 

The last few years, many colleges have been “test-optional,” meaning students do not need to submit their ACT scores to apply. 

However, this may be changing for many colleges in Wisconsin and throughout the country, starting with the class of ‘25.

“Here is what is happening right now: colleges across the U.S. are analyzing four years of data since COVID and deciding on admission policies for Fall 2025 applicants–current juniors,” shared NDA’s college counselor Becky Bain. 

“A hot topic is whether to require standardized test scores. According to FairTest.org, 1,800 colleges will remain test-optional or test-blind for Fall 2025. Students can find a full list of test-optional colleges at fairtest.org,”continued the counselor. 

The University of Wisconsin Board of Regents will meet on April 4-5 to decide whether ACT/SAT scores will be required for Wisconsin universities. 

NDA’s ACT test is before this date, which means that juniors will take it unaware of whether they’ll be required to submit their score.

“My advice for juniors is to pretend that ACT scores will be required for admission to colleges,” said Bain. “What do you have to lose by studying and going in fully prepared so you can do your best?”

She added that not only are ACT scores used for admissions, but they can also be used for direct-entry majors and scholarships.

“Plus, having a good ACT score is an effective way to showcase your academic ability even if your colleges are test-optional,” said Bain.

For resources and prep tools for the ACT, Bain recommends a couple of different options: watching YouTube videos or taking a prep class from SuperTutorTV, taking practice tests on act.org and using free online learning platforms like BadgerLink’s Learning Express Library. 

“These are all great ways to prepare for the ACT,” Bain said. “There are also books for purchase and loan through bookstores and libraries. Check out Student Service’s Google Classroom for a complete list of test prep resources.”

Link to SuperTutorTV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdCV7B7-FFc). Link to 

BadgerLink Learning Express Library:  (https://www.learningexpresshub.com/ProductEngine/LELIndex.html#/learningexpresslibrary/libraryhome).