Update 5/24/2020: With testing impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend of reducing mandatory SAT/ACT test scores has accelerated. The latest high profile institution to add its name to the list is the University of California system, which has suspended the test requirement until 2024. It plans to reviews alternatives including the possibility of eliminating standardized tests altogether.

A growing number of colleges that are de-emphasizing standardized tests as part of their admissions process. We know - and over one thousand colleges know too - that an SAT/ACT test score is not a true indicator of a student’s abilities.

Why the change in philosophy?

Effectiveness: With the prevalence of SAT/ACT prep classes, the tests are less effective than ever at indicating intellectual abilities. Those who study for the test or take prep classes tend to do better than those who don’t. While free help is out there, such as Khan Academy’s free online SAT study prep, not all students have the opportunity to find and utilize these resources. In addition, some students are simply poor test-takers or work at a slower pace, so the timed tests may not be reflective of their abilities in those areas under normal circumstances. As a result, test scores can be deceiving and leave otherwise strong candidates out in the cold. Many colleges are now looking beyond standardized tests to find capable students who are the right fit for their institutions.

Diversity: With colleges looking to broaden their admissions process and become more diverse, relying on test scores can add a barrier to access that many colleges are trying to remove. Students who are financially able to take the tests multiple times have a greater advantage to those that can’t, for example. Academically qualified students from low income, first-generation and other underrepresented groups may be turned away for not reaching the test benchmarks or be put off applying altogether. Colleges are waking up to the fact that they are pushing away a pool of talented individuals by an over-reliance on standardized tests.

Holistic Approach: While many universities still require the SAT/ACT/SAT Subject Tests and will continue to do so, those scores are usually just one part of a more holistic approach to their admissions process. Many universities recognize that while academics are certainly important, they shouldn’t be to the exclusion of everything else. Most colleges are looking for well-rounded students who will take advantage of the opportunities available on their campuses and beyond. Interesting extracurriculars and a demonstrated growth in responsibilities, both in the home and out of it, also factor into the admissions selection process, resulting in a de-emphasizing of standardized tests.

How do I find colleges that don’t require the SAT/ACT?

The FairTest Center keeps an updated list of colleges that have de-emphasized standardized tests. All colleges usually note their policies on testing on their admissions pages.

FairTest has also produced a list of over 360 schools that de-emphasize the SAT/ACT (PDF). The list includes universities from the top 10%, such as the University of Chicago, Texas A & M, and Washington State University; nationally ranked universities like Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and regional universities and colleges, such as James Madison University in Virginia.

So, do I not need to take the SAT/ACT/SAT Subject Tests (please, please, pretty please)?

It is still advisable to take the tests where possible and study as hard for them as you can. However, if the scores don’t reflect your capabilities, then applying to some colleges which de-emphasize standardized tests is a good idea and there is now more choice than ever. Cornell University announced in September 2019 that they are no longer requiring SAT Subject Tests, so the trend continues.