College Admission Policy Changes
Which colleges are requiring SAT/ACT test scores?
2024 has become a transition year. While almost all colleges adopted test-optional admissions policies during the pandemic, the tides are changing among the most selective colleges. Although 1900+ colleges remain test optional across the US, recent shifts at this handful of extremely selective colleges may lead to more colleges reinstating testing requirements or adopting ‘test flexible’ policies.
Check out our blog to learn more about recent changes to testing policy at top colleges, the switch to a digital SAT, and how to think about choosing between the SAT and ACT exams.
To help students and parents navigate the changing landscape of admission testing policies, we are curating a list of the colleges that have reinstated testing policies.
See the chart below for the latest news, and check back for updates frequently!
*Since colleges and universities change their policies frequently, it is important to visit the admissions website for any college you are applying to to read the specifics of their policy as it applies to you.
Colleges Now Requiring Testing:
Colleges added in order of policy announcement
College | Policy | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
MIT Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Test Required SAT or ACT | |
Georgetown | Test Required SAT or ACT *All scores must be submitted | |
Dartmouth | Test Required HS Class of 2025 onward
US Students: SAT or ACT
International Students: Choice of SAT, ACT, 3 APs, IBs, or A-Levels | |
Yale | Test Flexible HS Class of 2025 onward SAT or ACT or ALL AP or IB exams taken | |
Brown | Test Required HS Class of 2025 onward SAT or ACT
*Transfer applicants will remain Test Optional | |
University of Texas – Austin | Test Required HS Class of 2025 onward SAT or ACT
*Official score reports must be submitted directly from testing agency. | |
Harvard | Test Required HS Class of 2025 onward SAT or ACT
*AP, IB, GCSE/A-Level, or NLE accepted in place of SAT/ACT in ‘exceptional cases’ | |
Caltech | Test Required HS Class of 2025 onward SAT or ACT |
Note that in addition to the updated policies for the colleges above a handful of colleges reinstated testing requirements earlier:
*Please consult college websites for specific testing policy details.
The US Service Academies including:
- Air Force Academy
- US Military Academy
- US Naval Academy
- US Merchant Marine Academy
Most Public Universities in certain states:
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Tennessee
- + Purdue University
Finding this all a lot to keep up with? We understand, and we’re here to help. Connect with a TBU Advisor to explore personalized support to navigate the college process. You don’t have to go it alone!