Harvard and Caltech University Plan to Reintroduce SAT/ACT as Mandatory for Admission

 All study abroad aspirants, we have an update for you!

Harvard University and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have announced significant changes to their admissions policies, indicating a return to mandatory SAT/ACT requirements following a period of test-optional admissions. Starting with the 2025 admissions cycle, prospective students applying to these prestigious institutions must include SAT and ACT scores in their application materials.

This decision represents a significant shift in approach, with Harvard and Caltech emphasising the importance of standardised testing in assessing applicants' academic readiness and potential. Previously, these universities had test-optional policies, but they are now making the SAT/ACT mandatory for admissions consideration.

One of the main reasons for reintroducing standardised testing is that it can help identify talented students, particularly those from underprivileged or rural areas. SAT/ACT scores provide universities with valuable insights into students' academic abilities and potential for success in college-level coursework.

The decision by Harvard and Caltech reflects broader trends in the United States' top colleges and universities. Dartmouth, Yale, and Brown use standardised tests to identify and recruit talented students from various backgrounds. Standardised testing can offer an even playing field for applicant evaluation, ensuring fairness and consistency in the admissions process.

Caltech has taken a proactive approach, moving its requirement timeline forward. Starting with the fall 2024 admissions cycle, Caltech will require SAT/ACT scores from applicants. This accelerated timeline shows the university's commitment to using standardised testing as a key criterion for evaluating applicants.

Prospective students applying to Harvard, Caltech, or other prestigious institutions must understand the most recent admissions requirements. This includes rigorously preparing for the SAT/ACT and aiming for competitive scores that align with university standards, thereby increasing their chances of admission.

As part of this transition, students should familiarise themselves with the minimum score benchmarks established by these universities. For instance, the SAT score required for Harvard and Caltech is 1580 or 36 on the ACT may be considered a target score for meeting Caltech and Harvard University admission requirements for Indian students.

The reintroduction of the SAT/ACT as required admissions components shows a renewed emphasis on academic rigour and evaluation standards in university admission. Harvard and Caltech's decisions reflect a broader recognition of the importance of standardised testing in identifying and selecting talented students with academic excellence and potential.

As these elite institutions reintroduce test requirements, prospective students are advised to prepare accordingly and aim for competitive scores in order to meet the updated admissions criteria.