Test-optional college admission was trending even before the pandemic disrupted in-person standardized testing and made it difficult for all students to take the SAT and ACT. Since then, fewer students are taking these tests, and a full 80% of bachelor’s degree-granting schools are test optional today, according to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing.

The college admissions process is undoubtedly more challenging than ever, with students having to work harder and demonstrate greater qualifications to gain acceptance into their dream schools. But this increased level of rigor is also beneficial; the competition prepares students for the intense academic and professional worlds they may soon enter. The skills and experience that come from pushing themselves past comfort zones and striving for top-tier universities are invaluable, making them some of the best equipped individuals to take on future challenges.

In the current educational landscape, grades are more important than ever due to the increasing prevalence of test-optional colleges and universities. This is a blessing for hardworking high school students who may excel academically but not perform so well on standardized tests, as they can still leverage their dedication to the classroom when applying for college. Although it's important to take time to relax and enjoy life without feeling the immense pressure of earning excellent grades, one should never undervalue the power of a consistent course load and an attention to detail in completing assignments. That said, it's just as important to be mindful of personal limits; sometimes taking that extra class or striving for perfection could be counter-productive if not done responsibly. Ultimately, grades can help open new doors and provide an opportunity to pursue higher education goals where they might not have been attainable before.

When it comes to earning your grades, you should be proud of yourself for every A+ and know that even when the marks aren't as high as you'd like, you've still put in a lot of hard work and effort! Your grades are a reflection of the dedication and determination you have invested in your studies. So rejoice when you do well, learn from any mistakes or misunderstandings made on an assignment, take time to reflect on what could be improved, and strive to do better the next time so that you can reach your academic goals.

Of course, this can be easier said than done - especially if your child is dealing with other stresses like social media pressure or standardized testing anxiety. But there are some things you can do as a parent to help them out. Here are a few tips:

-Encourage your child to take challenging classes 

-Make sure they're staying on top of their homework 

-Talk to them about time management and creating a study schedule 

-Help them find resources like tutors or prep courses if they're struggling in certain subjects