Are SATs still required for college applications?

I'm a junior currently planning my college applications. I'm wondering if the SAT is still required or recommended for most colleges? Can someone shed some light on this please?

While many colleges have shifted to test-optional or test-flexible policies, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, some institutions still require SAT or ACT scores for their admissions process. Test-optional schools allow you to decide whether or not to submit your scores, while test-flexible schools give alternatives, such as submitting AP or IB scores in lieu of the SAT/ACT.

However, there are some schools that have returned to requiring standardized test scores like Dartmouth, Harvard, Purdue, Brown, Cornell, Yale, UT Austin, and Caltech, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle. Therefore, it's important to check each college's specific policies on their websites or contact their admissions offices directly to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Taking the SAT or ACT can still be beneficial, even for test-optional schools, as strong scores can help make your application more competitive. Additionally, some merit scholarships and honors programs may require test scores, so submitting good scores could open up financial aid and academic opportunities. If you decide to take the SAT or ACT, it's essential to prepare well in advance and ensure you're ready for the exam.

Ultimately, you should base your decision on whether to take the SAT or ACT upon the requirements of the colleges you're interested in and your personal abilities. Be sure to explore all your options and gather pertinent information to determine what works best for your situation.