Test-optional, test-required and test-free

The three policies

• Test-required: you must send an SAT or ACT score.
• Test-optional: you choose whether to send scores. Not sending one isn't held against you.
• Test-free (test-blind): scores aren't considered for admission even if you send them.

Schools that require scores (applying fall 2026)

These schools require the SAT or ACT for first-year applicants this cycle, according to their admissions pages:

Optional now, required soon

• Princeton: test-optional this cycle; required for students applying in 2027-28.
• Columbia: test-optional this cycle; required for the 2027-28 cycle, with waivers available.
• Vanderbilt: test-optional for fall 2027 and fall 2028 entry; required for students applying for fall 2029.
• Duke: test-optional in 2026-27.

Test-free schools

The University of California and California State University don't consider SAT or ACT scores for admission at any campus. Scores may still be used for course placement after you're admitted.

Should you send your score?

At test-optional schools, compare your score with the school's middle 50%, the range of scores of its admitted or enrolled students. Colleges such as Stony Brook, Fordham and Gonzaga suggest comparing your score with that range, and Stony Brook adds that a lower score doesn't mean you won't get in.

• At or above the middle of the range: send it.
• Inside the range but below the middle: it's a judgment call. Your other strengths matter more.
• Below the range: usually leave it off at test-optional schools.

Look up any school's range on its college page, or see how your score compares across hundreds of schools with colleges by SAT score.