During the pandemic, many universities made standardized test scores optional for admissions. But now, many colleges and public and private universities in the USA have again started to provide admissions only based on ACT/SAT scores. So, before applying for a college or university, you must know whether that institution requires test scores or not. In the USA, some Ivy League Universities will have different rules, and their policies will also change frequently. Hence, it might be challenging for you to identify which school requires standardized test scores. To avoid unnecessary confusion, make sure to check the admission requirements of each university you are interested in. If you would like to know which colleges and universities require ACT/SAT scores for 2025 admissions, check this blog. Here, we have listed the colleges that admit students based on ACT/SAT scores.
An Overview of SAT and ACT
The SAT and ACT are standardized tests that students must take to apply for admission to several US universities.
The SAT score is primarily required for admissions to undergraduate programs in US universities. This test will mainly evaluate the math and language skills of students. Typically, the SAT exam will have two sections- Reading & Writing and Mathematics. To complete the SAT, it will usually take about 2 hours and 14 minutes.
As there are no specific eligibility criteria, anyone can take the SAT. However, most students take it in the 11th or 12th grade. Moreover, it is also a good idea to take the exam around that time if you are planning to apply to US universities.
When it comes to admissions, the majority of the US universities and colleges consider the ACT scores. ACT is a multiple-choice test that you will have to take with a pencil and paper. Typically, this test will contain four main sections -English, Math, Reading, and Science.
The English section will assess your knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. The Math section will deal with topics like algebra, geometry, and some trigonometry. In the reading section, how well you understand what you read will be tested. Finally, the science section of the ACT will evaluate your ability to work with scientific information, like interpreting data and solving problems. Remember, some colleges will have an optional writing section, where you will be asked to write an essay. Generally, each section of the ACT will get a score from 1 to 36. If you attend the writing section, you will get a separate score just for that part.
Why Do Universities Require Standardized Test Scores for Admission?
At the time of the pandemic, taking the test was hard for students. Hence, many schools followed the test-optional policy. This means students can decide whether or not to include their SAT or ACT scores when applying for admission. But now, even after the pandemic, many colleges and universities in the USA are following test-optional policies.
Recently, some top universities, like Harvard and Yale, have started to require SAT or ACT scores again after having optional policies during the pandemic. These schools say their studies show that test scores can help make admissions fairer. However, some experts disagree with it. They think the tests are biased and can unfairly affect certain groups of students.
Other top institutions like Dartmouth and Brown also consider test scores for admissions. Even certain public universities in Georgia and Florida have also made standardized test scores mandatory for entry.
Generally, colleges and universities require SAT/ACT scores for these reasons
- Tests will help institutions compare students from different backgrounds in a fair way.
- Standardized tests will make the admissions process fairer for everyone.
- Good test scores will stand as evidence that a student is ready for college.
- Test scores will help colleges understand how prepared students are for their classes.
Top Colleges and Universities that Require ACT/SAT scores for 2025 Admission
For admission to the academic year 2025-2026, several top US colleges and universities require SAT or ACT scores. Here, let us look at some notable institutions that will admit students in the 2025 academic year based on ACT/SAT scores
Technical Universities
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Ivy League Universities
- Harvard University
- Brown University
- Dartmouth College
- Cornell University
Other Prestigious Institutions
- Georgetown University
- Stanford University
- Yale University
- Purdue University
- University of Texas, Austin
Tips to Get Top Scores in ACT/SAT Exam
If you like to apply for admissions in the prestigious universities in the United States that require ACT/SAT scores, then make sure to ace the exam. Especially, by following these tips, you can try to secure high scores in your ACT/SAT exam
Start preparing for the exam earlier
If you wish to do well on the SAT or ACT, then start preparing early. It is always best to begin preparing while you are in high school. Before you prepare for your exam, understand the test format and also consider taking the SAT/ACT preparation courses. Furthermore, to study and prepare for your standardized test, spend at least 2-3 months. This will help you feel more confident.
Get to know the format of the exam
When you begin preparing for the SAT/ACT, learn about the exam format. Typically, the SAT will have sections on reading, writing, and math. On the other hand, the ACT will contain separate sections for English, math, reading, science, and sometimes an optional writing section too. Once you know the format, start preparing for the specific sections and question types. This will help you focus on your studying and do better on the test.
Prepare a study plan for the exam
Before you start preparing for the SAT or ACT, choose your test date. After selecting the test date, make a study plan and follow it, so you can manage your time effectively. Also, invest time in practicing sample SAT/ACT question papers and watching educational videos. Besides that, you should focus on areas where you need improvement, set goals, and try to achieve them. This will help you stay on track and do your best on the test.
Practice solving sample ACT/SAT question papers
If you want to get high ACT/SAT scores, then you must practice a lot. Specifically, you should give yourself plenty of time to study before the test and attend practice tests. Solving sample ACT/SAT papers and practice questions is the greatest way to prepare for the test. Remember, taking practice tests will help you figure out what you are good at and what you need to work on. Moreover, if you have enough time, you can improve your weak areas.
Wrapping Up
By following the tips we have suggested in this blog, you can secure top ACT/SAT scores. As a result, you can easily apply for admissions to prestigious universities in the USA that require ACT/SAT scores. In case it is challenging for you to solve any sections in the ACT/SAT exam, avail of our assignment help services. We have a team of professional tutors in English, Math, and Science to guide you. Especially, with the assistance of our subject experts, you can improve your subject understanding and achieve success in standardized tests.
