The Return of Standardized Test Requirements: Why Some Colleges are Reinstating Them

In response to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, many colleges across the United States implemented test-optional admission policies, allowing applicants to decide whether to submit their SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. While some colleges initially said this change was temporary, recent developments in the early months of 2024 have seen additional schools, including Dartmouth College, Brown University, and the University of Texas at Austin, reinstating standardized test requirements.

One notable exception is Yale University, which eliminated its test-optional policy but now allows applicants to submit Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exam scores instead of ACT or SAT scores. The decision to require test scores again stems from internal research at these institutions, indicating that standardized test scores can predict a student’s academic success in college more reliably than high school grades alone.

According to admissions experts, standardized test scores help level the playing field by providing a better understanding of a student’s academic context, particularly for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Requiring test scores also brings more transparency to the admissions process, clarifying confusion around what test-optional actually means.

While test-optional policies have led to an increase in applications at many institutions, the restoration of admissions testing requirements may affect students unequally. Some students may be deterred from applying to schools that require test scores, while others may see it as an opportunity to showcase their strengths.

As colleges navigate these changes to admission requirements, students are advised to focus on rigorous high school coursework, engage in extracurricular activities, and carefully consider their college list. It is essential for students to stay informed about admissions requirements for the schools they are interested in applying to and seek guidance from school counselors when deciding whether to submit test scores.

Overall, the evolving landscape of college admissions underscores the importance of staying informed and making strategic decisions based on individual circumstances. As colleges continue to adjust their policies, students must adapt and make informed choices to maximize their chances of success in the admissions process.