Union Catholic senior students are facing a new challenge in the college application process in 2025, with many schools placing less emphasis on standardized test scores and more on compelling personal essays and strong letters of recommendation.
As admissions offices across the country shift away from mandatory SAT or ACT requirements, the weight of a narrative and a letter of recommendation has grown. More than 80% of U.S. four-year colleges and universities now do not require applicants to submit test scores for fall 2025 admissions. Under these policies, reviewers often “train admissions readers to put more emphasis … on high school grades, curriculum, and recommendations” when scores are missing (College Board). Meanwhile, some selective institutions have begun reinstating test mandates, arguing that exam scores continue to correlate with student success in college. For many applicants, their essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of support are no longer optional extras; they’re the primary way to make a lasting impression.
This shift has changed how students approach their applications. For many, managing new priorities has added pressure. Senior Phoebe Morris shared, “Honestly, juggling all the deadlines. Between early action dates, scholarship forms, and essays, it felt like something was always due. I was worried I’d forget something important.” To stay organized, she relied on her school counselor and family support. “My counselor was beneficial. She kept me on track with timelines and reviewed my essays. My sister also gave me advice since she went through the process already,” Morris ’26 said.
In addition to support systems, time management has become a crucial skill for seniors navigating this new admissions landscape. Morris ’26 explained, “I made a schedule and blocked out specific times for each task. For example, weekends were mostly for essays, while weekdays after practice were for homework.” She advises juniors to “start your essays early, like during the summer, so you’re not stressed during senior year. Also, keep everything organized in one place, like a spreadsheet for deadlines.”
For some students, the reduced emphasis on testing has been a relief. Senior Isha Sharma said, “It honestly took a lot of pressure off. Even though I like my scores, also being able to apply test-optional lets me focus on other parts of my application, like my portfolio and essays.” Sharma ’26 prioritizes schools that are aligned with her academic interests and personal values. “I focused on schools with strong programs in my major and places where I felt I’d fit in culturally. Location and campus vibe mattered a lot, too,” she explained.
Looking ahead, both students agreed that essays and recommendations will continue to play an important role in the application process. As colleges adjust their policies post-pandemic, applicants must adapt their strategies accordingly. Whether through personal narratives, strong extracurricular activities, or strategic time management, today’s seniors are finding new ways to stand out in a changing admissions environment.