For Students

Test-Optional or Test-Required? Colleges Bringing Back the SAT

August 21, 2025

Author:

Brent L.

If you’re feeling confused about whether or not you need the SAT for college applications—you’re not alone.

Confused young woman in a pink t-shirt and denim overalls scratching her head and frowning, looking thoughtful while trying to make a decision.

Over the past few years, policies have shifted dramatically: many schools went test-optional during the pandemic, and now some are swinging back to requiring standardized test scores again. It can feel overwhelming to keep up with the changes, but don’t worry—you’re doing the right thing by staying informed.

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Public Colleges That Require the SAT or ACT

Here’s a list of public colleges where SAT or ACT scores are part of the admissions requirement. (Keep in mind that some schools marked with * will officially reinstate this policy for Fall 2026 applicants.)

Table listing public colleges in the U.S. that require SAT or ACT scores for admission, including universities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

Public Colleges
- University of West Alabama
- Auburn University at Montgomery
- United States Air Force Academy
- Florida Atlantic University
- Florida Gulf Coast University
- University of Florida
- University of North Florida
- Florida Polytechnic University
- Florida International University
- University of Central Florida
- University of West Florida
- New College of Florida
- Florida State University
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU)
- University of South Florida
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University* (For Fall 2026)
- Kennesaw State University* (For Fall 2026)
- Georgia Southern University* (For Fall 2026)
- Augusta University* (For Fall 2026)
- Georgia College and State University
- Purdue University
- Louisiana Tech University
- United States Naval Academy
- Alcorn State University
- Delta State University
- United States Military Academy
- University of Tennessee Knoxville
- University of Memphis
- Tennessee State University
- Middle Tennessee State University
- University of Tennessee: Chattanooga
- University of Texas at Austin
- Fairmont State University

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Private Colleges That Require the SAT or ACT

Just like public universities, many private institutions have shifted back to requiring standardized test scores. If you’re aiming for selective schools, having a strong SAT or ACT score will definitely give you an edge.

Table listing private colleges that require SAT or ACT scores for admission, including Ivy League schools like Harvard, Brown, and Cornell, as well as institutions such as MIT, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, Caltech, University of Miami, and others across the U.S.

Private Colleges
- Cornell University* (For Fall 2026)
- University of Pennsylvania
- Harvard College
- Stanford University* (For Fall 2026)
- Brown University
- University of Miami
- Johns Hopkins University* (For Fall 2026)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Dartmouth College
- Georgetown University
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Florida Institute of Technology
- Saint Augustine's University
- Harding University
- College of the Ozarks
- William Carey University
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- University of Tennessee Southern
- Gallaudet University
- Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary
- Thomas Aquinas College

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Test-Optional Ivy League Schools in 2025

The Ivy League has seen some of the biggest shifts in testing policies. Here’s where things stand:

Harvard University: Returning to required testing for all applicants moving forward.
Yale University: Adopting a test-flexible policy—students must submit standardized test scores, but can choose from the SAT, ACT, AP, or IB exams.
Princeton University: Still test-optional for 2025, though strong scores are encouraged.
University of Pennsylvania: Remains test-optional for 2025, with GPA and activities carrying more weight.
Columbia University: Keeping its test-optional policy indefinitely, evaluating students holistically.
Dartmouth College: Has restored its testing requirement, meaning SAT or ACT scores are mandatory again.
Brown University: Also now requires SAT or ACT scores.
Cornell University: Reinstituting standardized testing for Fall 2026 and beyond.

Group of happy college students standing outside a historic university building, smiling and giving each other high-fives in celebration

You’re Closer Than You Think

With the August SAT just around the corner, it’s natural to feel a little nervous. But remember—all the effort you’ve put in will pay off. Trust the work you’ve done, walk into the test with confidence, and know that you’re giving yourself the best chance possible.

And beyond the SAT? An exciting new chapter of college life is waiting for you. New friends, new opportunities, and experiences you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.

So hang in there—you’re doing amazing. Keep believing in yourself, and let’s look forward to both strong SAT results and a fun, fulfilling college journey ahead. You’ve got this. 🌟