Harvard reverses course, will require standardized test scores in applications

Harvard has reversed course on the SAT and ACT, announcing that it will now require applicants to submit standardized test scores as part of the admissions process. 

The move comes as numerous other Ivy League institutions, including Yale and Darthmouth, brought back the requirement, which was dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As the Washington Post reports, Harvard made it clear from the start that the decision to drop the requirement was temporary, noting in 2021 that the policy would remain in place until the 2026 application season. Recently, however, the end date was moved forwards.

"Starting with those applying to the Harvard Class of 2029 (entering fall 2025)," the school wrote in a statement on its website, "Harvard College will require the submission of standardized test scores from applicants for admission as part of the whole-person application review process that takes a whole-student approach."