2025–2026 Standardized Test-Optional Colleges: What You Need to Know

Over the last several admissions cycles, many colleges and universities have re-examined their standardized testing policies. [1] While some institutions have chosen to reinstate test requirements, others continue to maintain test optional or test blind policies, offering students more flexibility in how they present themselves during the admissions process.

If you’ve already taken the SAT or ACT and feel confident in your score, submitting it can strengthen your application. However, if you haven’t taken the test or believe your score doesn’t reflect your academic potential, there are still plenty of schools that do not require test scores for admission.

Below, you’ll find two updated lists: one highlighting schools that now require standardized testing, and another listing institutions that are continuing test-optional or test blind policies for the 2025–2026 application cycle and beyond.

Schools That Now Require Standardized Testing

• Brown University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• Cornell University (recommended now, required next cycle)
• Dartmouth College
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• Georgetown University
• Johns Hopkins University (recommended now, required next cycle)
• Harvard University
• Florida State University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Ohio State University (required beginning 2025–26)
• Purdue University
• University of Pennsylvania (required beginning 2025–26)
• Rice University (recommended)
• Stanford University (required beginning 2025–26)
• University of Florida
• University of Georgia
• University of Texas at Austin
• Yale University (test flexible)

Test Optional Colleges for 2025–2026 (and Beyond)

Many schools have extended or made permanent their test-optional or test blind policies. Whether you’re applying to a large public university or a small liberal arts college, this list highlights the many institutions that do not require test scores for the 2025–2026 cycle.

Note: “Test optional” means students may choose whether to submit scores. “Test blind” means test scores will not be considered at all. Here is the full list:

What This Means for Applicants

As testing requirements continue to evolve, students need to stay informed about each school’s current policy. While some colleges now expect scores, others are experimenting with long-term test-optional approaches or have decided to eliminate test scores from consideration.

When planning your applications, consider the following:

• Does your test score add strength to your overall academic profile?
• Are your GPA, course rigor, and extracurricular activities strong enough to apply test optional?
• Are any of your target schools now requiring scores?

The most successful applicants take a strategic approach. [2] Understanding each institution’s expectations helps you tailor your application accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Whether or not you choose to submit test scores, colleges continue to value a holistic approach to admissions. [3] Strong essays, recommendation letters, and thoughtful extracurricular involvement remain critical components of a competitive application.

If you’re unsure whether to go test-optional or need help building a college list that fits your goals, consider speaking with an admissions expert who can help you navigate your options with confidence.

Ready to get started? Schedule a free strategy call today and take the first step toward your future success.