What if the hundreds of hours you spend attempting to achieve a high test score are more damaging to your college application than a low score? Each year, high-achieving juniors make the fatal strategic mistake of choosing the wrong exam. They spend months battling a test format that does not suit them, depleting mental energy t hat could  have been used to create a standout profile. A strong SAT or ACT score is required for admission in 2026. However, you will not receive t