The Ivies Brought Back Test Scores, but 90% of Colleges Still Don’t Require Them

Recent data from FairTest indicates that a substantial majority of colleges, approximately 90%, continue to maintain test-optional admissions policies, despite a few highly selective universities, specifically the 'Ivies,' reinstating standardized test score requirements. This trend suggests a bifurcated approach within the higher education sector regarding admissions criteria.

Why it matters

This information is strategically important as it highlights evolving admissions standards across the higher education landscape. Institutions must assess their competitive position and strategic objectives in light of prevailing test-optional trends versus the return to testing requirements by some prominent institutions, which can influence applicant pools and institutional diversity.

Key insights

• Approximately 90% of colleges do not require standardized test scores for admission.
• The 'Ivies' have reinstated standardized test score requirements.
• Even among the highest-ranked universities, the majority remain test-optional for the current academic year.
• The data is sourced from FairTest.

Source

Inside Higher Ed — https://www.insidehighered.com/news/admissions/traditional-age/2026/08/28/90-colleges-dont-require-test-scores-2026-27