Take a look at the bar graph above. You’ll see a story that’s hard to miss: SAT participation dipped sharply during the height of COVID — But it’s on the way back up.
The Numbers Behind the SAT Comeback
According to the College Board, about 1.97 million students in the Class of 2024 took the SAT. That’s up from 1.9 million in 2023, 1.7 million in 2022, and just 1.5 million in 2021. While we’re not quite back to the pre-COVID peak of 2.2 million (Class of 2020), the recovery is clear.
What Test-Optional Really Means for SAT Takers
So what does this mean in a “test-optional” era? The numbers suggest something interesting:
- Even when colleges say scores aren’t required, students still want the option.
- Many take the SAT “just in case”—because a strong score can definitely help, not submitting one can may leave admissions officers with less academic context.
- In practice, “test-optional” often seems to mean take the SAT if you think it helps you.
In other words, students may not fully trust the idea of “optional.” They’re hedging their bets, taking the SAT, and deciding later whether to send scores. It’s a kind of insurance policy in an uncertain admissions landscape.
The SAT’s Staying Power
The SAT may not be the universal gatekeeper it once was, but nearly two million students still show up each year. That’s not a fade-out. That’s staying power!
Why Taking the SAT Still Makes Sense
Thinking about the college of your dreams? Don’t leave your options to chance. Whether you end up submitting scores or not, taking the SAT or ACT keeps doors open. A solid result can give you an edge in admissions and in scholarships, too. Make the smart move: register, prepare and give yourself every advantage.
Ready to plan your next move?
Don’t leave your college options to chance. Whether or not you decide to submit scores, taking the SAT or ACT keeps pathways open for admissions, scholarships, and peace of mind.
See our articles: “Colleges Still Requiring SAT or ACT (Verified August, 2025” and “The SAT Paradox: to Submit or not to Submit.”
We offer expert guidance and personalized strategies. Reach out today for SAT or ACT tutoring and start building your best score. Call (914) 365-8878.
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