by Irene Chung

As we head into summer, many families are asking: Do we still need to worry about SAT or ACT scores? With college testing policies continuing to evolve and test dates coming up soon, June is the perfect time to build a clear, thoughtful strategy.

The short answer? It depends. While some colleges remain test-optional, others are reinstating test requirements. Understanding these policies and how they apply to your goals is crucial in making informed decisions.

What Do the Testing Policies Really Mean?

• Test-Optional
  Students may choose whether or not to submit SAT/ACT scores. Applications without scores are still fully reviewed. However, strong scores can still help – especially at more competitive schools.
• Test-Required
  These colleges require that all applicants submit test scores. Applications are incomplete without them.
• Test-Flexible
  A few schools allow alternative credentials, like AP or IB scores, in place of SAT or ACT scores.
• Test-Blind
  Schools in this category (such as the University of California system) won’t consider scores at all, even if submitted.

Recent Changes: What’s Happening in 2025

Over the past few months, several well-known colleges have announced they’re bringing back testing requirements:

• Dartmouth, Yale, Stanford, and Brown have reintroduced SAT/ACT requirements for upcoming classes.
• Public systems in Florida and Georgia continue to require test scores.

The UC and Cal State systems remain test-blind, meaning scores are never considered.