What is CMC’s policy on standardized tests?
In light of the current challenges related to test access (particularly in California), as well as changes within the tests, CMC has decided to extend our test-optional policy through the Fall 2027 admission cycle. Thus, for the Fall 2026 and Fall 2027 admission cycles, CMC will remain test-optional.
What are the important variables that contribute to CMC’s evaluation of tests?
CMC’s Office of Admission utilizes test scores as a single data point in over 1,000 attributes that we consider in our decisions. We neither reject nor accept applicants solely on the basis of test scores. We view test scores as one potential predictive measure of academic performance in the college classroom—and in the greater context of a student’s school and community.
If I take a test, should I submit my score?
CMC’s test-optional policy affords our applicants the choice of submitting ACT or SAT results. Those who submit their score results will have the tests included as part of their academic record and assessment. Applicants should consider their academic record as a whole—specifically their high school transcript, including their curriculum and grades—and decide if the test scores complement or strengthen their academic record.
If there is value added or additional context to the scores that complements or strengthens your academic record, please consider submitting your scores.
If you take the exam and do not submit scores for consideration in the admission process, we request that you submit your standardized test scores to us after enrolling at CMC. This is so we can have the data for institutional research as we continue to study the value of the SAT and ACT, especially in light of recent exam modifications.
Do most students who take tests submit their scores?
While not a precise representation of everyone at CMC, based on a survey we administered to our student body in the spring of 2024, nearly 85% reported that they took the exam. However, 40% of the first-year cohort that entered in the fall of 2024 reported scores for admission consideration.
Our data shows that our test score averages have risen significantly during the period we have been test-optional (2021-2025). We don’t want students to be discouraged from submitting their scores, as it seems likely that the scores would be helpful data for many applicants.
To help students who have taken the exam make an informed decision regarding submitting their scores, we recommend that they review our test score medians and middle 50% ranges from the years 2018 to 2020.
Scores from the pre-COVID years provide a more accurate representation of the broader score ranges of students who were admitted and matriculated to CMC. Please also keep in mind that these are medians and are not representative of the full range of test scores of submitted applicants.
I expect to apply to CMC in the Fall 2028. What should I do about testing?
For those students expecting to apply to CMC for the Fall 2028 (high school graduating class of 2028), please anticipate that CMC may change its test-optional policy in the future. We are always evaluating a variety of factors, including a steadying of the admission landscape, recent modifications to the ACT and SAT, and improvements in access to testing in California. We encourage you to prepare to take either the SAT or ACT exams by taking the PSAT or Pre-ACT, if possible.
Check back with us in Summer 2026 for information regarding our policy beyond Fall 2027.
It is not easy for me to access testing. What should I do?
If you are applying for the Fall 2026 or Fall 2027 admission cycles, do not panic, as we are test-optional. If you plan to apply for the Fall 2028 admission cycle and beyond, as stated above, we will closely monitor access to testing sites as we weigh the future of our testing policy. Please contact us if you have questions.