With the recent announcement by Johns Hopkins University of its decision to reinstate a standardized testing requirement (starting fall 2026), there are currently 14 top universities that require the SAT or ACT for freshman admissions (as well as two universities—NYU and Yale—that require applicants to submit scores from a list of standardized tests, including the SAT, ACT, AP exams, and IB tests):
While many colleges and universities remain test-optional for the time being, the fact that colleges and universities consider test scores (even though scores are not required) indicates the importance of test scores in the application review process. Test scores provide information about an applicant’s mathematical problem-solving skills and the ability to read and write in English effectively. Test scores also provide insights into an applicant’s preparedness for college and specific majors (for example, computer science and engineering).
In addition, colleges consider test scores in the context of the applicant’s family and educational background (for example, whether the applicant is the first in their family to attend college and how the applicant’s scores compare to the average test scores of students from their high school). So, an SAT score that falls below the average for a particular college or university may nevertheless be viewed positively in the context of an applicant’s life and educational opportunities.
Elite Prep offers the best test prep program for the new digital SAT with multiple full-length online practice tests and lessons and practice problems covering all of the topics and skills you need to achieve an outstanding score.
Check out our SAT Prep program details. And contact your local Elite Prep branch to schedule a free SAT or ACT diagnostic test today!