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List of Colleges Requiring SAT/ACT
College testing policies are in flux, but some schools still require the SAT/ACT. Always research your target colleges' latest requirements to make informed decisions about submitting scores.
Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT can be a valuable tool in the college admissions process. For some students, they are a way to demonstrate academic readiness and potential. It's essential to be aware of which colleges still require these exams. In this guide, we'll cover:
While many colleges are still test-optional or test-free, others now consider the SAT/ACT an important part of the application process.
Notably, prestigious institutions like MIT, Yale, Dartmouth, and Brown have returned to requiring the SAT/ACT. Additionally, entire public university systems in Georgia and Florida have reinstated testing mandates. This trend might continue at other institutions, according to our college counselors.
If you're applying to colleges that require the SAT/ACT, here's how to make your scores work for you:
Before submitting your SAT/ACT scores, it's crucial to research score expectations at your target schools and how they factor into the admissions process.
Let's say you're targeting Yale. You expect applicants there probably score in very high ranges, but you want to know how high.
With a little online research, you'll find the following information, or something close to it, depending on the year in question. In this case we're using data on SAT English scores of Yale applicants for the class of 2028:
25th Percentile Scores: A score below 740 puts you in the 25th percentile, ranking you with the lowest 25% of Yale applicants that year who took the SAT.
75th Percentile Scores: A score above 780 puts you in the 75th percentile — the top 25% of Yale applicants that took the SAT — a good score in this highly competitive landscape.
Understanding Mid-Range Scores: Often test score ranges will be reported using a Middle 50% Range, indicating what score range puts you somewhere in the middle 50% of test takers.
Using the Yale example above, the Middle 50% Range would be scores between 740 and 780:
Below 740 you fall into the 25th percentile (bottom score range for Yale applicants);
Above 780 you get into the 75th percentile, putting you among the top 25% of Yale applicants for SAT English.
With these examples in mind, as you research SAT/ACT expectations for your target schools, consider the following:
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While the information in this guide is a valuable starting point, remember that admissions requirements can vary within a single university. Here are some additional points to keep in mind:
Thoroughly researching each college on your list and their specific program requirements is essential for making informed application decisions.
Our college counselors closely track university admissions policies. Based on their insights, here's our list of top schools where submitting SAT/ACT scores is currently required or highly recommended for the 2024/25 admissions cycle:
Important Note: College testing policies can change frequently. Before applying, it's crucial to always double-check the most current requirements on each school's official website.
A handful of colleges and universities that are test optional in 2024/25 have announced they won't remain test optional for long... These include several prominent Ivies, among other highly respected institutions.
Here's a list of schools with plans to reinstate SAT/ACT test requirements for admissions in the near future:
University | When Test Requirements Will Be Reinstated |
---|---|
Harvard | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
Brown | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
Dartmouth | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
Yale* | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
University of Texas, Austin | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
Caltech | For enrollment in Fall of 2025 (Class of 2029) |
Stanford | For enrollment in Fall of 2026 (Class of 2030) |
University of Wisconsin, Madison | For enrollment in Fall of 2028 (Class of 3032) |
Vanderbilt | For enrollment in Fall of 2028 (Class of 3032) |
* Yale will be adopting a test-flexible policy. While the policy will still require students to submit test scores for admissions, students can satisfy the requirement by submitting scores from any of four options: SAT, ACT, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB).
Important Note: College testing policies can change frequently. Before applying, it's crucial to always double-check the most current requirements on each school's official website.
While the testing landscape evolves, the SAT/ACT remain a key factor for some highly selective colleges. Understanding which schools value these exams is crucial for crafting a successful application strategy. Remember, strong test scores can be a powerful asset, showcasing your academic readiness and potential.
Strategic preparation is essential if you're applying to colleges that require standardized tests. Maximize your performance by starting early and focusing on the exam that best suits your strengths. Let those scores be a testament to your hard work and determination.
Navigating college admissions can be overwhelming, especially when standardized tests are a factor. Our experienced college counselors are here to help. Book a free consultation today if you need test prep guidance or want personalized advice on highlighting your strengths. Let us help you reach your dream college!
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