Every fall, one of the most common questions I hear from high school juniors and seniors is, “Do I still need to take the SAT or ACT?” And honestly, I get it. The rules have changed so much over the past few years that even counselors need a cheat sheet. What started as a pandemic pivot has turned into a full-blown transformation in how colleges use standardized tests. For students applying for the 2025 admissions cycle, it’s more important than ever to understand who requires what and how your test scores could impact your chances.
In this post, I’ll break down the current landscape of standardized testing for 2025 applicants. Whether you’re aiming for Ivies, public flagships, test-blind schools, or somewhere in between, we’ll cover exactly what you need to know — and how you can make strategic decisions that work in your favor.
Standardized Test Policies for 2025 Admissions (Who Requires What)
As of 2025, colleges fall into three main categories regarding standardized tests: test-required, test-optional, and test-blind. But within those categories, there are nuances that can make a big difference depending on your major, residency status, or scholarship goals.
Test-Required Schools (Yes, You Still Need the SAT or ACT)
Some selective institutions are officially returning to requiring standardized test scores. The most widely reported shift came from MIT, which reinstated its SAT/ACT requirement for all applicants, citing that scores help them identify academic readiness in math-heavy fields. Dartmouth and Yale have also announced similar policies, although Yale’s policy allows some flexibility for students without access to testing.
Other schools that require scores for 2025 include:
- Georgetown University
- University of Florida (UF)
- University of Georgia
- Purdue University
- Florida State University
For example, I worked with a student named Olivia last year who had her eye on UF. She was initially uncertain about prepping for the ACT, but once we confirmed that UF requires test scores for all applicants, we built a study plan around her summer schedule. She ended up scoring a 31 and received a merit scholarship based on that score — a reminder of how test-required doesn’t just mean admissions, but also financial aid.
Test-Optional Schools (You Decide Whether to Submit)
Most U.S. colleges remain test-optional for 2025, including many selective institutions like Harvard, Columbia, NYU, and the University of Chicago. These schools allow you to choose whether or not to send scores. If you believe your SAT or ACT reflects your academic potential, it can still strengthen your application.
But here’s the nuance: optional doesn’t mean unimportant. As I often tell my students, if you’re applying to a reach school and your score is above their middle 50% range, it’s worth submitting. One of my students, Jayden, applied test-optional to five colleges but submitted his SAT to two match schools — and those were the two he got into. The scores gave his application an edge, especially since he came from an under-resourced high school.
Want help figuring out where your scores give you an advantage? Our guide on choosing reach, match, and safety schools walks through how to match your academic profile to college tiers.
Test-Blind Schools (Scores Not Considered At All)
Then you have schools that are test-blind — meaning they won’t consider scores even if you send them. The University of California system (including Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego) is the most prominent example. California State University campuses are also test-blind.
Additionally, a few liberal arts colleges like Hampshire College and Reed College have adopted permanent test-blind policies. In these cases, submitting scores won’t help or hurt you — they’re simply not part of the decision-making process.
If you’re applying to test-blind schools, focus more on your GPA, course rigor, and personal essays. I had a homeschooled student, Leila, who was relieved to apply to UC campuses without stress over missing test centers during the pandemic. Instead, she focused on her activity resume and wrote compelling essays about her independent research in environmental science.
Strategic Considerations for Submitting Test Scores
Even in a test-optional landscape, knowing when and where to submit scores can significantly impact your application. Here’s how I help students weigh their options:
Compare Your Scores to the School’s Middle 50%
Look up the average SAT/ACT range for admitted students. If your score falls in the top half or above, it’s likely beneficial to submit. You can find score ranges on each college’s admissions page or through the College Navigator from the U.S. Department of Education.
Think About Scholarships and Honors Programs
Some schools offer automatic merit scholarships or honors college invitations based on test scores, even if they’re test-optional for admissions. For instance, at schools like the University of Alabama and University of Arizona, a higher ACT or SAT can unlock thousands in aid. I recently saw a student earn $12,000 per year just by submitting a 1280 SAT to a school that didn’t require it. Check each school’s financial aid site or use tools like BigFuture from the College Board to estimate eligibility.
Consider Your Academic Record
If your GPA is lower due to personal hardship or inconsistent grading policies, strong test scores can act as a stabilizer. But if your transcript is robust and your score is average or below, you might be better off applying test-optional. This is especially true at schools with holistic admissions, as explained in our post on what colleges look for beyond the numbers.
Plan Ahead for Deadlines and Score Reporting
Remember that it can take 1–2 weeks for colleges to receive your official scores. If you’re applying early action or early decision, make sure your test date aligns with reporting deadlines. You can read more about timelines in our college admissions planning guide.
Common Questions About Standardized Tests for 2025
Do international students have to submit SAT or ACT scores?
It depends on the college. Some schools waive SAT/ACT for international students but may still require English proficiency tests like the TOEFL or IELTS. Others expect both. Check each school’s international admissions page for exact requirements.
What if I can’t afford test prep?
You’re not alone. Many students worry about access. The good news is that there are free resources like Khan Academy’s SAT prep or ACT’s free prep platform. Also, many schools don’t require tests at all — and some offer fee waivers and test prep grants.
Should I take both the SAT and ACT?
Not necessarily. Colleges accept either. I usually suggest taking a diagnostic of both, then focusing on the one that suits your strengths. If you’re unsure, our ACT vs. SAT comparison guide might help you decide.
Can test scores help if I’m applying as a first-gen or underrepresented student?
Sometimes, yes. A strong score can underline your academic potential, especially if your high school hasn’t offered many AP or honors courses. That said, many colleges now emphasize context and personal background. If you’re unsure how your story fits in, check out our guide for first-generation applicants.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the Testing Maze with Confidence
I’ve worked with students who tested three times and students who never tested at all — and I’ve seen both get into their dream schools. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer anymore, and that’s actually a good thing. The flexibility empowers you to highlight your strengths in the way that suits you best.
If you’re unsure whether to test or submit scores, take a step back and consider your entire application: your GPA, coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and life experiences. Then ask yourself — would a test score add value or just add stress?
And remember, this is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle. Whether you’re crafting your personal statement, preparing for college interviews, or choosing how many schools to apply to, every step is a chance to tell your story more clearly.
If you’re feeling stuck on testing decisions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your school counselor or message me through College Grant Hub. You’re not in this alone — and with the right guidance, you’ll find the path that works for you.