While university systems like the University of California (UC) system and California State University (CSU) system have implemented test-free policies, MIT has decided that it will reinstate its SAT/ACT requirement for future admissions cycles.
After having a test-optional admissions policy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, MIT has found that standardized tests not only help the university better evaluate the academic preparation of each applicant, but also assist the university in identifying students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and may have lacked access to advanced coursework or extracurricular opportunities that would have demonstrated their readiness for the academic rigor of MIT. Therefore, in line with MIT’s mission of recruiting, admitting, and enrolling “a diverse and talented group of students who are a good match for MIT’s unique education and culture,” MIT believes that requiring students to submit SAT or ACT scores is more transparent and equitable than having test-optional admissions.
For the majority of students applying to MIT, this requirement will be applicable. However, if students were unable to take the SAT or ACT due to a disaster, disruption, or other exceptional reasons, they will have the opportunity to explain their situation on their application and still be granted a fair and full review by MIT. For further information about MIT’s standardized test requirement, click here.
If you’d like to learn more about how the standardized test policies at universities across the U.S. will affect your college admissions strategy, reach out to PathIvy to schedule a free consultation with a PathIvy college counselor!
Written by Calla Buttke, PathIvy Team