For a moment, the college admissions landscape seemed like it had changed forever. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, colleges and universities across the nation re-evaluated their admissions processes, with many adopting test-optional and test-blind policies. This shift sparked a broader conversation about the relevance and equity of standardized tests.
As the pandemic’s immediate effects waned, more institutions began reinstating their testing requirements. This return to traditional admissions practices has led many to wonder: Why are colleges emphasizing standardized tests again?
Why Colleges Became Test-Optional
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill. Testing locations shut down, and at-home testing wasn’t an option yet. To avoid penalizing the graduating high school classes of 2020 and 2021 for circumstances beyond their control, many colleges waived standardized test requirements.
This decision led to a widespread adoption of test-optional policies. Initially a necessity, these policies reignited debates about standardized tests. Critics argued that removing testing requirements could increase diversity by leveling the playing field between students with and without access to test prep services.
The Reality of Standardized Tests
As applicant pools swelled under test-optional policies, students sought new ways to stand out. Surprisingly, submitting standardized test scores still provided a significant advantage. For example, at Boston College, only 33% of the Class of 2026 accepted without submitting test scores. At Georgetown, a whopping 90% of accepted students submitted scores.
Many Ivy League schools are re-evaluating the role of standardized tests. Yale’s Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Jeremiah Quinlan, believes these tests can predict freshman year success and help students from underserved backgrounds showcase their potential.
Similar sentiments have been expressed by leaders at:
Brown’s analysis revealed that standardized test scores are crucial for predicting a student’s potential academic performance, helping ensure talented students from all backgrounds have access to education.
Are Colleges Bringing Back the SAT?
While the University of California system remains test-blind, other top-tier schools are reinstating testing requirements. These include:
- Brown University
- Dartmouth College
- Georgetown University
- MIT
- University of Texas at Austin
- Yale University
Testing policies can change with little notice. For instance, Harvard, initially committed to being test-optional until 2026, has reinstated test requirements for the 2024-25 application season.
As the debate over the importance of standardized tests continues, students should prepare for the possibility that more colleges will return to requiring test scores.
What Does This Mean for the Class of 2029?
With so many changes, the Class of 2029 must stay informed about admissions policies. Even if applying to test-optional schools, students should prepare for and take standardized tests. Additionally, they need to create a well-rounded application that highlights their strengths beyond academics.
Excelling in standardized tests and submitting a robust application helps admissions teams predict students’ potential for success in higher education.
Will Colleges Be Test-Optional in 2025?
The pandemic prompted colleges to reassess their admissions policies and their impact on diversity. The ongoing debate about standardized tests suggests that testing policies will continue to evolve. Therefore, students should plan on submitting test scores as part of their application.
Excelling in standardized tests, writing compelling essays, and maintaining strong academic performance can significantly enhance a student’s chances of acceptance.
Next Steps
As universities reassess the role of standardized tests, staying informed about changing policies is crucial. For the Class of 2029 and beyond, preparing a solid application with high academic achievements and a well-crafted essay remains essential.
Regardless of testing policies, students should strive for academic excellence and make the most of every opportunity to bolster their academic profiles.
Interested in helping your child build a strong college application? Call us at (888) 312-3814 for more information or find a C2 center near you!
