Over the past several years, standardized testing has undergone significant changes in college admissions. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted access to testing, many colleges moved to test-optional policies. What began as a temporary measure has largely become a long-term part of how colleges approach applications.
Today, there is no single “right” approach to testing. Instead, colleges use different policies — and understanding those nuances helps families make informed, strategic decisions rather than reacting to anxiety or misinformation.
Most colleges now fall into one of four categories: test-optional, test-preferred, test-required, or test-blind (test-free). How a student approaches testing should depend on where they’re applying and how well their scores support their overall profile.
Why Standardized Testing Still Matters
Even as policies evolve, standardized testing continues to matter — in admissions at some schools, in merit scholarship decisions at others, and as a useful data point for many colleges trying to compare students across different high schools.
The confusion many families feel is understandable, but it’s also avoidable with clear information about current policies and how they’re applied. Knowing which colleges use which approach allows you to plan deliberately and with confidence.
Test-Optional Colleges and What That Means
Test-optional colleges allow students to choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. Students who do not submit scores are still fully considered for admission — and are not automatically disadvantaged.
However, it’s important to know that “optional” does not mean “irrelevant.” At many test-optional colleges — from highly ranked liberal arts schools like Pomona College to research universities like University of Michigan — submitting strong scores can still enhance an application. Decision-making should be strategic and school-specific.
Learn more about test-optional policies and how they work
Test-Preferred and Test-Flexible Policies
Some colleges historically preferred scores even if they didn’t require them, but policies can evolve.
A notable example is Yale University, which has transitioned from a test-optional policy to a test-flexible policy, meaning scores are required again — but students can choose which type to submit (SAT, ACT, Advanced Placement [AP], or International Baccalaureate [IB]). This allows applicants to highlight their academic strengths in the way that best reflects them.
Yale’s official statement on its test-flexible approach
Test-Required Colleges
Some institutions have reinstated testing as a requirement. For example, multiple Ivy League schools and other selective universities have moved back toward requiring SAT or ACT scores after experimenting with test-optional policies — a shift reflecting their view that test scores provide useful academic context.
Examples include:
- Harvard University — test required for admissions
- Brown University — requires standardized tests
- Stanford University — reinstated mandatory SAT/ACT reporting beginning for recent application cycles (Fall 2026)
- Princeton University — planning to require SAT/ACT again beginning for the 2027–28 cycle
Even at test-required schools, admissions offices typically use scores as part of a holistic review alongside grades, essays, recommendations, and other factors.
Test-Blind (Test-Free) Colleges
Test-blind or test-free colleges do not consider SAT or ACT scores at all — even if students submit them. Scores play no role in admissions decisions.
One of the most prominent examples is the University of California (UC) system. The UCs — including UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, and others — eliminated SAT/ACT scores from admissions and scholarship considerations in 2020 and do not use them in review.
University of California admission requirements page
At test-blind colleges, students are evaluated entirely on their academic record, essays, activities, and other non-test components.
Understanding Standardized Tests: PSAT, SAT, and ACT
What Is the PSAT?
The PSAT is a practice version of the SAT, usually taken in October of a student’s junior year. It helps students learn the testing format and also serves as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
National Merit Scholarship info
What Is the SAT?
The SAT is a standardized college admissions test measuring reading, writing, and math skills, now delivered digitally and without an essay. Many colleges include SAT scores as part of a holistic review.
What Is the ACT?
The ACT is another widely accepted college admissions exam covering English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. Some students perform better on one exam over the other, which is why diagnostics are so useful.
Navigating ACT/SAT in a Test-Optional Landscape What is a “test-optional”
Planning Test Preparation Strategically
The most effective approach to test preparation starts with understanding where a student is right now. Rather than guessing which test to take, it’s far more useful to begin with a diagnostic exam to identify strengths and areas for growth.
Helpful steps include:
- determining whether a student has taken a proctored SAT or ACT,
- completing a diagnostic if not,
- and using data to choose the best path forward.
Ready to dive deeper into personalized test prep? Check out our blog to learn how we use data and diagnostics to make test prep less stressful and more strategic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Standardized Testing
Do students still need to take the SAT or ACT?
It varies by college. Some require scores, some encourage them, and others ignore them entirely. Always consult each school’s official admissions page.
If a college is test-optional, is it better to submit scores?
Only if scores strengthen the application compared with other parts of the student’s profile.
Is one test better — SAT or ACT?
There’s no universal answer. Some students excel in one format over the other. A diagnostic test is often the best way to determine fit.
Do SAT or ACT scores still matter for scholarships?
Yes — even at test-optional schools, scores can matter for merit-based awards.
When should students start thinking about test prep?
Ideally by sophomore or early junior year to understand timelines and options.
Can students apply without testing at all?
Yes — many colleges permit test-free applications, but this should be an intentional choice based on the student’s goals and college list.
Sign up for the FREE Parent Community to experience monthly LIVE Podcast episodes, buckets of resources, relevant News articles, and a community of like-minded parents!
Want to learn more about our College Consulting offerings? Tell Us Your Story and we will be in touch!
