Colleges That Don't Require Standardized Tests for 2026

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Popular College Degrees Worth Considering for 2026

Business Administration

A degree in business administration is a versatile program that provides a broad foundation in key business functions. Students learn about accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, and operations management. The curriculum teaches strategic planning, data analysis, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to manage organizations and solve complex problems. 

Psychology 

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. The program explores topics like cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, and it teaches students how to conduct research and analyze data. The skills gained—such as critical thinking, communication, and an understanding of human motivation—are valuable in a wide range of fields, including marketing, human resources, law, and education. 

Counseling 

Counseling focuses on helping individuals, families, and groups navigate mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. A degree in counseling, often at the master's level, trains students in therapeutic techniques, client assessment, and crisis intervention. This degree is increasingly popular due to a growing societal awareness of mental health issues and a rising demand for qualified professionals. 

Nursing

Nursing is a healthcare profession that combines the science of medicine with the art of compassionate care. Nursing programs, typically a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), prepare students to provide direct patient care, manage illnesses, and promote health and wellness. The curriculum includes a mix of classroom theory and hands-on clinical experience. 

Social Work 

Social work is a helping profession dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to overcome life's challenges. The degree focuses on understanding human behavior within social, economic, and cultural contexts. Social work education equips students with the skills to advocate for clients, connect them with essential resources, and address systemic injustices.

List of Colleges with No Standardized Tests

Colleges with no standardized tests are recognized for their high academic standards and comprehensive admissions processes that go beyond standardized testing requirements, offering students more personalized and inclusive evaluation options.

Williams College

A prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and close-knit community, Williams College has a "truly test-optional" admissions policy, allowing applicants to decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores.

The college maintains a comprehensive, holistic review process for all applications, evaluating students on a wide range of factors including academic performance, essays, and personal experiences, regardless of whether test scores are included. Additionally, optional supplementary materials like AP or IB scores can be included to further strengthen an applicant's file.

Amherst College

Amherst College's admissions process is test-optional, meaning applicants can choose whether to include SAT or ACT scores. This policy was formally adopted in June 2023, transitioning from a pilot program to a long-term approach. Amherst evaluates applicants holistically, placing greater emphasis on academic records, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular commitments rather than standardized test results.

If applicants do choose to submit test scores, Amherst superscores both the SAT and ACT — combining top section scores across test dates to create the strongest composite score. However, there is no penalty for opting not to submit scores; students are not disadvantaged by doing so.

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore College lets applicants decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores—and not submitting them won’t hurt your chances. Instead of relying on a single metric, the school takes a holistic approach, looking closely at grades, rigorous coursework, essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and personal context. And, if scores are submitted, the writing sections are excluded from consideration.

The test-optional policy, initially introduced during the pandemic, has been extended through at least 2025 as Swarthmore studies how applicants admitted without scores perform over time. 

Bowdoin College

Bowdoin has a longstanding test-optional policy and prides itself on fostering a collaborative and inclusive campus culture with a strong liberal arts curriculum. The admissions committee is committed to a holistic review process, where they evaluate a student's entire academic record, writing, and character.

For applicants who do choose to submit scores, they will be reviewed alongside other application materials, such as transcripts, recommendations, and essays. Bowdoin accepts self-reported scores, though official verification is required upon enrollment. It's worth noting that while test scores are not mandatory for admission, they can still be considered a useful part of the application for those who feel their scores will strengthen their case.

Pomona College

As part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, Pomona College is a top liberal arts institution that emphasizes broad intellectual curiosity and does not require SAT or ACT scores. Applicants still have the option to submit scores if they feel it strengthens their case. Pomona considers test results alongside grades, coursework rigor, recommendation letters, essays, and other personal achievements.

This policy was initially introduced during the pandemic and officially became permanent following a faculty vote in November 2023. 

Wellesley College

A leading women’s college with a robust academic reputation, Wellesley uses a test-optional policy. An applicant's entire file—including their high school record, essays, and recommendations—is considered. The college places particular emphasis on demonstrated writing and quantitative reasoning skills, which are viewed as key indicators for success in their rigorous curriculum.

For students who choose to submit standardized test scores, they will be considered as part of this holistic review. However, Wellesley is clear that applicants who do not submit scores will not be at a disadvantage in the review process.

Carleton College

Carleton offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a test-optional admissions policy focusing on the whole applicant, including academic records and extracurricular contributions. 

Rather than relying on a single data point, Carleton now emphasizes qualities such as curiosity and intellectual engagement to understand each applicant “as a human.” The change also widened access, notably increasing applications from international students and reinforcing the college’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Claremont McKenna College

Known for its leadership focus and strong social sciences programs, Claremont McKenna accepts applications without standardized test scores through 2027. The student's academic record—transcripts, recommendations, essays, and extracurriculars—remains central to the admissions review, so they won’t be at a disadvantage for opting out of test submissions.

For students who choose to submit test scores, Claremont McKenna superscores both the SAT and ACT, ensuring only the strongest section scores are considered. Even after enrollment, students who didn’t submit scores are asked to provide them for institutional research, helping the college assess the policy’s long-term value.

Harvey Mudd College

A STEM-focused liberal arts college, Harvey Mudd College has extended its SAT/ACT test-optional policy through the fall 2026 application cycle, allowing students to choose whether to submit scores without being penalized for opting out. Their admissions team continues to conduct holistic evaluations, focusing on transcripts, essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars to understand applicants in full context.

This policy follows a data-driven approach: in recent years, nearly 42% of admitted students did not submit SAT or ACT scores, and there was no disadvantage in their outcomes. The college also no longer considers SAT Subject Test scores, emphasizing a fair and accessible admissions process. 

Vassar College

Vassar College has made its pilot test-optional policy permanent, so applicants are no longer required to submit SAT or ACT scores. The college's admissions policy prioritizes academic performance, coursework rigor, personal essays, recommendations, and extracurricular involvement.

Vassar's decision followed a thoughtful review that found high school GPA is a stronger predictor of success than test scores, especially for Pell-eligible and underrepresented students. Administrators emphasized that eliminating testing requirements promotes equity, reduces stress for applicants, and reinforces Vassar’s commitment to evaluating the full range of each student’s potential.

How do test-optional and test-free admissions differ?

The core difference between test-optional and colleges with no standardized tests lies in whether standardized test scores are considered in the application review. A test-optional policy gives applicants a choice: they can submit their SAT or ACT scores if they feel the scores will strengthen their application, but they won't be penalized if they choose not to. At these colleges, a strong test score can still give an applicant a competitive edge. 

Conversely, a test-free or test-blind policy means a college will not consider standardized test scores under any circumstances, even if an applicant submits them. The admissions committee simply ignores the scores, focusing entirely on other parts. This distinction is crucial for applicants to understand, as it dictates whether a test score, no matter how high, can be a factor in their admission.

Just as with career paths like how to become a court clerk, understanding the specific requirements and opportunities is key to a successful outcome.

How do colleges evaluate applications without standardized test scores?

Colleges with no standardized tests scores use a holistic review process to evaluate applicants. This approach goes beyond a simple test score and GPA, allowing admissions officers to consider a student's entire application within their unique context.

As students prepare their applications, a common question arises: how many colleges should you apply to when test scores aren’t part of the equation? Experts generally recommend applying to a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools—often between 5 and 10—to maximize options while maintaining application quality. This strategy helps applicants tailor their materials carefully for each institution’s holistic criteria.

Without standardized tests, the following elements become even more crucial in the admissions decision:

• Academic Performance: Admissions officers scrutinize the applicant's high school transcript, looking not just at the GPA, but also at the rigor of their coursework. They want to see that the student has challenged themselves with advanced classes like AP or IB, and maintained strong grades.
• Essays and Personal Statements: This is a chance for applicants to showcase their personality, voice, and writing skills. The essay can provide context for challenges they have faced, highlight their passions, and demonstrate their readiness for college-level thinking.
• Extracurricular Activities: Colleges want to see how a student spends their time outside of class. They look for depth and sustained commitment rather than a long list of fleeting activities. Involvement in clubs, sports, community service, or a part-time job can demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and a passion for learning.
• Letters of Recommendation: These letters provide an outside perspective on the applicant's character, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity. Recommendations from teachers and counselors can offer valuable insights into how a student collaborates with peers and handles academic challenges.
• Interviews and Portfolios: Some colleges offer optional interviews, which allow the admissions committee to get to know the applicant on a more personal level. For students in the arts or architecture, a portfolio can be a crucial way to showcase talent and skill.

What advantages do test-optional colleges offer applicants?

Test-optional colleges offer several advantages to applicants. First, they enable students to apply without the pressure of submitting standardized test scores, allowing those who may not perform well on exams to showcase their strengths through grades, essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendations.

For students eager to accelerate their education, learning how to get a bachelor's degree fast can align well with the flexibility that test-optional schools provide. Many of these institutions also offer credit for prior learning, AP courses, or dual enrollment programs—helping motivated students complete their degrees more efficiently while still maintaining academic quality.

This holistic evaluation can benefit students with strong academic records but mediocre test scores by highlighting their unique talents and achievements. Additionally, colleges with no standardized tests increase access and equity, especially for students from underserved or underrepresented backgrounds who may face barriers in standardized testing.

These policies reduce financial and emotional stress related to costly test preparation and high-stakes exams, enabling students to focus on other important aspects of their college applications.

Much like evidence technician job requirements emphasize hands-on training and certifications over a single test score, test-optional admissions shift the focus to a broader evaluation of an applicant’s potential. This often leads to a more diverse and well-rounded student body, enriching the campus community with varied experiences and perspectives.

How to apply to test-optional colleges?

Applying to colleges with no standardized tests is much like applying to traditional colleges, but with a few key differences to keep in mind. Students still complete the standard application materials, such as transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular details.

The main choice is whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If scores are strong, sending them may strengthen the application, but if they don’t reflect the student’s academic potential, it’s often better to leave them out.

Because test-optional schools place more weight on other parts of the application, students should put extra care into crafting compelling essays, highlighting meaningful extracurriculars, and ensuring teacher recommendations provide strong insight into their abilities. Many schools also encourage showcasing unique achievements or experiences through supplemental materials.

Ultimately, the goal is to present a well-rounded picture that demonstrates academic readiness, personal growth, and the potential to contribute to the college community.

How do I know if my test scores will improve my chances?

To know if submitting test scores will improve chances at test-optional colleges, consider how your scores compare to the college’s published middle 50% range for admitted students.

If your SAT or ACT scores fall within or above this range, submitting them can strengthen your application and signal academic readiness, potentially improving your admission odds. Conversely, if your scores are below the median, it's often better not to submit them, as many test-optional schools do not penalize applicants who omit low scores. 

It is also important to check if specific programs or scholarships require test scores, as submitting scores in those cases may benefit your application. Just as there are specific steps on how to become a PE teacher, a strategic approach to test scores is crucial for college applications.

Submitting strong test scores alongside good grades and a robust application profile maximizes your chances, but always review the individual college’s policies before deciding.

Is choosing colleges with no standardized tests a disadvantage for graduate programs?

Choosing a test-optional college is generally not a disadvantage for graduate programs, since graduate schools focus more on your undergraduate GPA, coursework, letters of recommendation, research, and relevant experiences.

Graduate admissions committees rarely look back at whether you submitted standardized test scores when applying to your bachelor’s program. Instead, they evaluate the strength of your academic record and professional readiness.

This focus on academic performance is especially important for students considering advanced research paths or aiming for the highest paying PhD degrees, where strong undergraduate preparation and relevant experience can make a bigger impact than standardized test submissions.

That said, some competitive graduate programs—especially law, medical, and business schools—may still require standardized entrance exams like the LSAT, MCAT, or GMAT. In these cases, your performance on those exams will matter far more than whether your undergraduate college was test-optional. What matters most is proving you can handle the rigor of advanced study.

If you attend a test-optional college, the key is to maximize the opportunities available to you. Strong grades, meaningful internships, faculty relationships, and research experience will speak loudly on your graduate school applications. As long as you build a strong academic and professional profile, going to colleges with no standardized tests will not hold you back from graduate study.

What are the financial aid opportunities for test-optional applicants?

Financial aid for test-optional applicants is a complex landscape that varies from one institution to another. Generally, there are two main types of financial aid: need-based and merit-based. Understanding how a school handles each is critical.

For instance, just as you'd research how do you qualify as a security guard by looking into training courses and background checks, you must research a college's specific financial aid policies.

• Need-Based Financial Aid: For need-based financial aid, which is determined by a family's financial situation, test-optional policies have a minimal impact. The primary document used to assess a student's financial need is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA does not require SAT or ACT scores.
• Test-Blind for Scholarships: Many colleges that are test-optional for admissions are also test-blind for merit aid, meaning they will not consider test scores at all, even if submitted. At these institutions, scholarships are awarded based on a holistic review of the application, with a strong emphasis on GPA, academic rigor, and extracurricular achievements.
• Test-Optional with Nuances: Some schools may have a test-optional admissions policy but still require or "highly recommend" test scores for certain merit scholarships, especially for highly competitive or departmental-specific awards like honors programs or STEM scholarships. In these cases, a high test score can give an applicant an edge in the competition for a larger scholarship.
• Guaranteed Scholarships: Historically, some colleges have offered guaranteed scholarships based on a combination of GPA and test scores. As more schools adopt test-optional policies, many have replaced these with matrices that consider GPA and other factors, but some may still have a test-score component.

What should students expect for future college testing requirements?

Students should expect continued fluctuations in college testing requirements in the near future. While many colleges embraced test-optional policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, several top-tier institutions like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and Dartmouth have reinstated standardized test requirements starting from the 2025-2026 admissions cycle.

According to recent admissions data, over 80% of four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. will not require standardized test scores for fall 2025 admissions, with more than 2,000 institutions currently test-optional or test-blind. 

However, the majority of U.S. colleges still maintain test-optional policies to promote access and diversity, leading to a split landscape where some institutions require tests and others don’t. Students should be prepared for shifting policies, carefully check each college’s requirements, and consider submitting test scores if they are strong.

Additionally, there is growing innovation in admissions, with some colleges offering flexible programs, dual enrollment options, and expanded online degrees that may influence testing expectations in the long term. 

Students interested in pursuing interdisciplinary studies should also research how to apply for a double major, as understanding the application process early can help in planning course schedules and meeting all academic requirements efficiently.

How is technology changing college admissions beyond standardized tests?

Technology is profoundly changing admissions at colleges with no standardized tests in several key ways. Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to streamline application reviews by analyzing essays, transcripts, and recommendation letters more efficiently, allowing admissions officers to focus on qualitative aspects like student fit and potential.

A survey by EAB of nearly 5,000 high school graduates found that 15% of Gen Z students applied to colleges specifically because they were test-optional. 

Application platforms like the Common App simplify the process by allowing students to apply to multiple colleges through one interface, reducing redundancy and stress. Additionally, emerging technologies support personalized communications with prospective students through AI chatbots that provide 24/7 guidance.

Ultimately, technology is enabling a more holistic, accessible, and data-informed admissions process while still valuing the individual story behind each applicant. This is not unlike the varied and demanding responsibilities that define what a hotel manager does, which require balancing business, guest services, and human resources to ensure smooth operations.

Here's what graduates have to say about their colleges with no standardized test

References:

• CollegeHippo. (2021). Masters programs in Communication which do not require GMAT Updated 2021. CollegeHippo
• Cromwelle, J. (n.d.). 90 Best Graduate Schools that Don’t Require GRE Scores [2021 Guide]. My Degree Guide
• EDsmart. (n.d.). Masters Programs That Don’t Require the GRE. EDsmart
• Metro MBA. (n.d.). Top MBA Programs That Don’t Require GMAT or GRE Scores. Metro MBA
• Nietzel, M. (2021, September 30). Most University Of California At Berkeley Graduate Programs Will Not Require The GRE This Year. Forbes

Other Things You Should Know About Colleges That Don’t Require Standardized Tests