Ivy League and Top Universities Reinstate SAT/ACT Requirements for 2026-2027 Admissions

In a significant shift for elite college admissions, six of the eight Ivy League schools—along with other top-tier institutions like MIT, Georgetown, and Caltech—have reinstated SAT or ACT testing requirements for first-year applicants in the 2026-2027 admissions cycle (entering the Class of 2031). This marks a departure from the test-optional policies adopted during the pandemic, signaling a return to pre-pandemic norms for many selective universities.

Key Developments:

• Ivy League Reversal: Yale, Brown, Dartmouth, Harvard, and Cornell are among the Ivy League schools now requiring standardized test scores, as reported by [Oriel Admissions](https://orieladmissions.com/colleges-require-sat-act/).
• Broader Trend: The reinstatement extends beyond the Ivy League, with institutions like MIT, Georgetown, and the University of Georgia also mandating scores, according to [Progress Learning](https://progresslearning.com/news-blog/colleges-dropping-reinstating-act-sat-requirements/).
• Test Format Updates: The SAT is now fully digital, while the ACT has introduced a shorter test with more time per question and a revised Composite score that excludes the Science section, as detailed in [Summit Prep's guide](https://summitprep.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-the-sat-act-and-college-admissions-in-2026/).

This shift underscores the evolving landscape of college admissions, where standardized testing remains a critical factor for many elite institutions. Families and students should verify testing policies directly with each university, as requirements may vary by program or applicant type.