Is the SAT required by most colleges?

I'm getting mixed messages about college requirements. Do most colleges require the SAT? Don't some use a test-optional admission policy these days?

You're right in noting that there has been a shift towards test-optional admissions policies in recent years. Many colleges have initiated this shift in response to the ongoing global health crisis, which has made Standardized testing like SAT more challenging for students.

However, recently a few notable colleges have decided to reinstate standardized testing requirement. For instance, Dartmouth College, Purdue University, Brown University, Harvard University, Yale University, University of Texas at Austin, and California Institute of Technology all require SAT or ACT scores starting with the 2024-2025 application cycle.

In contrast, some highly selective schools such as Columbia University, Princeton University, Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, University of Chicago, and New York University, continue with the test-optional policies through 2024-2025 application cycle.

The Cal State and UC systems, along with some other schools, are currently test-blind, meaning they won't consider SAT or ACT scores at all, even if submitted.

The best way to know for sure whether a college requires the SAT would be to check their specific admissions requirements on the school’s website or reach out directly to their admissions office.

However, keep in mind that even if a school is test-optional, having a strong SAT or ACT score can still enhance your application, especially if other parts of your academic profile aren't as strong. So, it might still be worthwhile to take the test.

But above all, remember that the SAT is just one aspect of your application. Your coursework, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations all play a significant role in admissions decisions.