Are there still many test-optional colleges in 2024?

I'm wondering if a lot of schools are still test-optional in 2024. With standardized tests stressing me out, I'm considering applying only to colleges that are test-optional. Does anyone know which colleges are keeping this policy?

Yes, many colleges remained test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle. While some schools, like Dartmouth College, Harvard University, Purdue University, Brown University, Yale University, The University of Texas at Austin, and California Institute of Technology, reinstated the requirement for applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score, other highly selective colleges maintained their test-optional policies.

Some of these still test-optional institutions include Columbia University, Princeton University, Cornell University, Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, and the University of Chicago.

Additionally, a few public universities, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Michigan, University of Southern California, University of Wisconsin - Madison, University of Washington, and Drexel University, have also continued to observe test-optional policies.

However, it's crucial to remember that not every school takes the same approach. The Cal State and UC systems adopted a test-blind policy for the 2024-2025 cycle, which means they do not consider SAT or ACT scores at all.

Make sure to research each potential college's specific standardized testing expectations and policies to ensure you effectively plan your application process. Even if a school is test-optional, you might still want to consider taking the SAT or ACT, especially if you feel capable of earning a score within the 50th percentile or higher for accepted students at your target schools. Good luck with your applications!