Extracurricular, Policies and Standardized Testing

Harvard Reinstates Standardized Testing

BestColleges

APRIL 15, 2024

Harvard has reinstituted its standardized test requirement beginning next fall. Studies suggest standardized tests can help increase socioeconomic diversity. Add Harvard to the list of universities reinstating standardized test requirements. Exclamation mark. Don't send it. We won't see it.

Standardized Testing

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An In-depth Look at Standardized Testing Policies for Ivy League 2023

Ivy College Essay

AUGUST 22, 2023

In recent times, standardized testing policies for Ivy League universities have undergone significant changes, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and growing concerns about equity in college admissions. What Does This Mean for Applicants?

Ivy League

Ivy League Standardized Testing Policies Testing

Yale Adopts ‘Test-Flexible’ Policy

BestColleges

MARCH 1, 2024

Yale University announced it is reinstating standardized test requirements. The university believes mandatory test requirements can help level the playing field for disadvantaged students. Yale has officially become "test-flexible." Applicants will thus have four options for submitting standardized test results.

Policies

Policies Testing Standardized Testing Ivy League

Four in 10 Students Think Standardized Tests Are a Good Measure of College Readiness

BestColleges

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Data Summary Check Less than half of students (47%) say that the use of standardized test scores to assess applicants in college admissions is fair. Check Among students who submitted standardized test scores to a college, 56% say their score may have helped their chances of getting accepted to the school of their choice.

Standardized Testing

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Big Changes at UT Austin: Testing Policies, Essays, and Deadlines

Berkeley² Academy

MARCH 15, 2024

Some ,, big changes are coming to UT Austin admissions in 2024—today we’ll go over important details regarding their standardized testing policy, essay prompts, application deadlines, and more. Under the former test-optional policy, over 40% of UT applicants elected to have the university consider their SAT or ACT test scores.

Policies

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Which Is More Important — Grades or Extracurricular Activities?

Great College Advice

JULY 25, 2023

One of the most-oft questions I get from families is some version of this: “Which is more important — grades or extracurricular activities? Grades are more important than your extracurricular activities. But there are some other things that are also super-important–more so than your extracurricular achievements.

Extracurricular

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Test Optional: Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

ACM College Consulting

MAY 3, 2024

In 2024, we have already seen several selective universities, including MIT, Cornell, Yale and Brown announce that they will once again require test scores of some sort (each policy is frustratingly different or vague) for the next application year. Students should research the admissions policies and data of the schools on their list.

SAT

SAT ACT Testing Standardized Testing

Columbia University Becomes Permanently Test-Optional with No SAT/ACT Requirement

Spark Admissions

APRIL 11, 2023

According to Columbia, this move was prompted by a growing recognition of the flaws in standardized testing and the school’s desire to make the admissions process more equitable and accessible to a broader range of students. For decades, standardized tests have been central to the college admissions process.

ACT

ACT SAT Testing Standardized Testing

Columbia University Becomes Permanently Test-Optional with No SAT/ACT Requirement

Spark Admissions

APRIL 11, 2023

According to Columbia, this move was prompted by a growing recognition of the flaws in standardized testing and the school’s desire to make the admissions process more equitable and accessible to a broader range of students. For decades, standardized tests have been central to the college admissions process.

ACT

ACT SAT Testing Standardized Testing

What Is a Bad SAT Score — And Should I Worry About Mine?

BestColleges

MARCH 20, 2024

It's also important to remember that your standardized test score is just one factor that schools will consider in your overall application. However, a recent study conducted by Harvard University-based research group Opportunity Insights has administrators rethinking their test-optional policies.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing Ivy League Test Prep

4 Things to Know Before Applying to a Test-Optional College

Solomon Admissions

DECEMBER 8, 2023

According to Forbes , many of these schools did so to help combat the effects of COVID, but as COVID cases have been on a drastic decline schools are standing by this policy for a multitude of reasons. These universities recognize that standardized tests alone do not fully represent a student’s abilities, talents, and/or potential.

Testing

Testing Standardized Testing Letters of Recommendation Test Prep

Duke University: Class of 2028 Acceptance Rate

Top Tier Admissions

MAY 10, 2024

In a major shift, Duke is no longer giving essays and standardized testing scores numerical ratings in the undergraduate admissions process, according to The Duke Chronicle. This cycle, Duke will still take into account standardized test scores when submitted, including AP and IB scores.

Acceptance

Acceptance Ivy League Standardized Testing University

Duke SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 24, 2024

Duke University, renowned for its academic rigor and vibrant campus community , holds its applicants to high standards, including in their SAT scores and requirements. In this article, we’ll delve into the average SAT scores at Duke University and the nuances of their admissions policies.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing ACT Policies

Navigating Post-COVID Admissions: Test Optional Policies

Simply Admissions

AUGUST 13, 2020

This month, we’ll go over post-COVID standardized testing changes and FAQs. The majority of colleges have changed their testing requirements recently, which seems like it’s only caused more confusion! Below is a handy cheat sheet I’ve created that summarizes the different testing policies.

Policies

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Duke ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 24, 2024

Duke University sets high standards for its applicants, and standardized testing is a crucial aspect of the college application process. Duke University maintains a test-optional policy for applicants. Duke evaluates applications comprehensively, considering various factors beyond standardized test scores.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT Extracurricular

Dartmouth + Yale End Test-Optional: What Does it Mean?

The Koppelman Group

MARCH 1, 2024

In the last few weeks, both Dartmouth and Yale have decided to end the test-optional policies they adopted during the height of COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. Since adopting test-optional, a lot of schools started extending their policies out by years or even indefinitely (like Michigan). And schools love this.

Testing

Testing Ivy League Standardized Testing Policies

Test-Optional Colleges and Admissions Strategies for the 2023–2024 Application Cycle

Shemmassian Academic Consulting

JULY 9, 2023

This became especially true in 2020, given changes in test administration and colleges’ testing policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Two years later, colleges continue to update their testing requirements, with some extending their test-optional periods and others opting for permanent changes.

Testing

Testing Applications Admissions Standardized Testing

Brown SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 17, 2024

For the 2023-2024 admission cycle, Brown University will maintain a test-optional policy for all first-year, transfer, and Resumed Undergraduate Education applicants. If students choose to submit test scores, they may self-report them or send them officially to Brown. Should I go test-optional?

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing ACT Transfer

Columbia University: Class of 2028 Acceptance Rate

Top Tier Admissions

APRIL 26, 2024

Through their essays and extracurriculars, research projects and maker portfolios, they have revealed remarkable depth, dedication and inspiration. Harvard University also backtracked from its two-year test-optional commitment when it announced it would require standardized test scores , effective for the Class of 2029.

Acceptance

Acceptance Ivy League University University

Northwestern SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MAY 4, 2024

For the admissions cycle spanning 2024–25, Northwestern University maintains a test-optional policy. However, applicants may choose to submit these scores along with other optional forms of testing, such as Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate scores. What are Northwestern’s SAT requirements?

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing ACT Placement

Stanford ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 15, 2024

Stanford University maintains a test-optional policy for applicants. This means that standardized test scores, including ACT and SAT, are not required for admission. Admitted students who plan to enroll will be required to submit official test score documentation. What are Stanford’s ACT requirements?

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT Policies

Cornell SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 13, 2024

Applicants to Cornell’s schools for Agriculture and Life Sciences; Architecture, Art, and Planning; and the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business are not expected to submit standardized test scores. Brooks School of Public Policy; and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations may optionally submit standardized test scores.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing ACT Extracurricular

What’s a Good SAT/ACT Score for Applying to College?

Solomon Admissions

JUNE 29, 2023

In addition to the usual application materials, like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays, students are often asked to submit standardized test scores from either the SAT or ACT exam when applying to college. Top schools do not recommend one test over the other; students are allowed to submit whichever one they prefer.

ACT

ACT SAT Ivy League Standardized Testing

Cornell ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 13, 2024

Cornell University, known for its academic rigor and diverse community, sets high standards for its applicants. Among the various elements of the college application process, standardized testing plays a significant role. 37% submitted SAT scores, and 49% omitted standardized test scores from their application.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT Early Decision

Columbia ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 2, 2024

Columbia University, a distinguished Ivy League institution, sets high standards for its applicants, with standardized testing playing a pivotal role in the college admissions process. Columbia University has a test-optional admissions policy. What are Columbia University’s ACT requirements?

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing Ivy League SAT

Columbia SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 2, 2024

Columbia University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. This means that applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores. However, applicants are encouraged to submit any test scores they believe will strengthen their application. Should I go test-optional?

SAT

SAT Ivy League Standardized Testing ACT

MIT ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 20, 2024

MIT requires the submission of standardized test scores for both prospective first-year and transfer students. While challenging, gaining admission to MIT with a below-average ACT score is possible, especially given MIT’s test-optional policy. MIT’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 1858.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT Transfer

Stanford SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 15, 2024

Stanford University maintains a test-optional policy. However, applicants are welcome and encouraged to submit any standardized test scores they believe will enhance their application. Approximately 28% of applicants chose to omit standardized test scores from their application.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing ACT Semester

UPenn SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 6, 2024

UPenn currently does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores, as the University has adopted a test-optional policy. Of the admitted applicants for the fall of 2021, 48% submitted SAT scores, while 23% submitted ACT scores, and 29% presumably omitted standardized test scores from their application.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing Ivy League ACT

Princeton SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

For the upcoming admission cycles (applications due in the falls of 2023, 2024, and 2025), Princeton University has extended its test-optional policy. Although standardized test results will not be required, they will still be valued and evaluated within the application’s larger context.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing Ivy League ACT

Princeton SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

For the upcoming admission cycles (applications due in the falls of 2023, 2024, and 2025), Princeton University has extended its test-optional policy. Although standardized test results will not be required, they will still be valued and evaluated within the application’s larger context.

SAT

SAT Standardized Testing Ivy League ACT

University of California, Irvine

Ivy Central

MAY 19, 2023

The institution offers a vibrant array of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to diverse interests. The Student Center of the campus offers numerous dining options, social spaces, and event venues for students to connect, unwind, and engage in extracurricular activities.

University

University University GPA Government

Students’ Top Factors in College Choice and Admissions: 2023

BestColleges

OCTOBER 26, 2023

Check The fewest students say test-optional admissions policies (13%) and return on investment (18%) were top factors in their college choice. Check Other top factors students believe schools should consider include the admissions essay (36%) and standardized test scores (33%).

Admissions

Admissions Standardized Testing Transfer Extracurricular

Research Underway by Gates Foundation Partners to Better Understand Test-Optional Admission

Admitted

AUGUST 10, 2023

iStock NACAC, in collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and several other organizations, is carefully exploring admission policies and practices in an increasingly test-optional or test-free environment. How and why did institutions decide whether to go test-optional (and, if so, in what form)?

Testing

Testing Admissions Standardized Testing Policies

UPenn ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MARCH 6, 2024

The University of Pennsylvania maintains their test-optional policy , meaning applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores. However, applicants who choose to include testing as part of their applications may submit SAT and/or ACT scores.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT GPA

What You Need to Know About Boston University

Ivy Central

MAY 17, 2023

The university takes a holistic approach to admissions, evaluating an applicant's academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, personal essays, and recommendations. Additionally, BU provides a Test-Optional Policy, allowing students to decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores during the admissions process.

Early Decision

Early Decision University University Mentorship

Artificial Intelligence and Admissions

Berkeley² Academy

MARCH 13, 2024

In most scenarios, applications are reviewed with a holistic process (an exception would be the state of Texas’s auto admit policy—which applies to the ,, top 6% of students within their high school class applying to UT Austin and the ,, top 10% at other Texas universities like Texas A&M).

Admissions

Admissions Transcripts Standardized Testing GPA

Applying to Bates as an International Student

The Koppelman Group

MARCH 12, 2024

While your extracurriculars and test scores provide useful information, and the essays can fill in gaps and provide meaningful context, you’re not going to be admitted to Bates if you don’t have strong grades. So over 60% of students who were admitted and enrolled did not send in standardized test results.

International Students

International Students Financial Aid Extracurricular SAT

Ohio State Admission Requirements 2023

College Essay Guy

JULY 27, 2023

Ohio State Application Deadlines Ohio State Priority Deadline Policy Ohio State Supplemental Essay Prompts How hard is it to get into Ohio State? People who successfully get into Ohio State also tend to have impressive extracurricular activities and college applications essays. It is fairly difficult to get accepted to Ohio State.

Admissions

Admissions Campus Tours GPA Standardized Testing

Applying to Brown as an International Student

The Koppelman Group

MARCH 22, 2024

Extracurriculars What you do outside of the classroom is really important to Brown. Standardized Tests Many international exam systems operate on a different schedule from the US system, so when it comes to systems such as the British A-Levels they rely on the predicted results, “as provided by your school officials.”

International Students

International Students Ivy League Standardized Testing SAT

Harvard ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

NOVEMBER 23, 2023

Across schools nationwide, standardized testing is a notorious part of the college application process – this article breaks down Harvard-specific ACT requirements and Harvard ACT scores. For the Classes of 2027 through 2030, Harvard has made its applications test-optional. What are Harvard’s ACT requirements?

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT Extracurricular

Georgia Tech Admission Requirements 2023

College Essay Guy

SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

Georgia Tech Application Deadlines Georgia Tech Early Action Policy Georgia Tech Supplemental Essay Prompts Georgia Tech Essay Tips Georgia Tech Major-specific Supplemental Essays How hard is it to get into Georgia Tech? It is very difficult to get accepted to Georgia Tech, especially for out-of-state applicants.

Admissions

Admissions Transfer GPA SAT

Yale ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

FEBRUARY 24, 2024

Yale has adopted a test-optional policy. This means that applicants are not obligated to submit standardized test scores, and choosing not to do so will not disadvantage applicants. 59% submitted SAT scores, while the remaining 12% did not submit either standardized test score.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT GPA

Yale ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

FEBRUARY 24, 2024

Yale has adopted a test-optional policy. This means that applicants are not obligated to submit standardized test scores, and choosing not to do so will not disadvantage applicants. 59% submitted SAT scores, while the remaining 12% did not submit either standardized test score.

ACT

ACT Standardized Testing SAT GPA

Harvard Reinstates Standardized Testing

An In-depth Look at Standardized Testing Policies for Ivy League 2023

Trending Sources

Yale Adopts ‘Test-Flexible’ Policy

Four in 10 Students Think Standardized Tests Are a Good Measure of College Readiness

Big Changes at UT Austin: Testing Policies, Essays, and Deadlines

Which Is More Important — Grades or Extracurricular Activities?

Test Optional: Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

Columbia University Becomes Permanently Test-Optional with No SAT/ACT Requirement

Columbia University Becomes Permanently Test-Optional with No SAT/ACT Requirement

What Is a Bad SAT Score — And Should I Worry About Mine?

4 Things to Know Before Applying to a Test-Optional College

Duke University: Class of 2028 Acceptance Rate

Duke SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Navigating Post-COVID Admissions: Test Optional Policies

Duke ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Dartmouth + Yale End Test-Optional: What Does it Mean?

Test-Optional Colleges and Admissions Strategies for the 2023–2024 Application Cycle

Brown SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Columbia University: Class of 2028 Acceptance Rate

Northwestern SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Stanford ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Cornell SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

What’s a Good SAT/ACT Score for Applying to College?

Cornell ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Columbia ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Columbia SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

MIT ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Stanford SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

UPenn SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Princeton SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Princeton SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

University of California, Irvine

Students’ Top Factors in College Choice and Admissions: 2023

Research Underway by Gates Foundation Partners to Better Understand Test-Optional Admission

UPenn ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

What You Need to Know About Boston University

Artificial Intelligence and Admissions

Applying to Bates as an International Student

Ohio State Admission Requirements 2023

Applying to Brown as an International Student

Harvard ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Georgia Tech Admission Requirements 2023

Yale ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Yale ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

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