Harvard reverses course, will require standardized test scores in applications

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."

While the efficacy of standardized testing has been hotly contested over the years, new research suggests it is still the best predictor of post-secondary success, even for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

A study conducted by Harvard economists at Opportunity Insights found that "students from low-income families and other less advantaged backgrounds have lower standardized test scores and are less likely to take the test than students from higher income families" due to "differences in school quality, neighborhood exposure, and many other environmental conditions."

Making it optional in the application process, however, actually harmed them more, because many feared their scores were too low and decided to just omit that part of their academic portfolio altogether.

Both Harvard and Yale noted that along with SAT and ACT scores, applicants sometimes have the option to submit Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exam scores instead.

The test scores are only one part of a prospective student's application. They also submit report cards, essays, recommendation letters, and other supplementary documentation proving their abilities.