Test-Blind
An admissions policy where SAT and ACT scores are not considered at all, even if submitted. The most common case is the University of California system.
Test-blind admissions means the college does not consider SAT or ACT scores under any circumstances, even if submitted. Submitted scores are simply not part of the file the admissions committee reviews. The most prominent test-blind admissions system is the University of California, which has been test-blind since 2021.
For students applying to test-blind schools, taking the SAT or ACT serves no admissions purpose, though scores may still be useful for course placement after enrollment, scholarship competitions, or applying to schools with different policies.
For parents, the practical implication is that if all schools on a child's list are test-blind (a UC-only list, for example), the time and cost of test prep can be redirected to GPA, course rigor, and extracurricular development. Always confirm each school's current policy before deciding to skip testing entirely.
Related terms
View all terms- Test-OptionalAn admissions policy where students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. The school evaluates submitted scores when present.
- UC GPAThe University of California's recalculated GPA, capped at 4.4 weighted with limited honor-points credit. Used by all UC campuses and CSUs.
- SuperscoreA composite SAT or ACT score combining a student's best section scores across multiple test dates.
- Score ChoiceThe option to send only specific SAT score reports to colleges, not the full testing history. Some schools require all sittings.