If you’re applying to colleges that require SAT scores in 2025, you need to stay informed about the latest trends in college admissions. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted standardized testing, with many universities temporarily adopting test-optional policies. However, as we move into 2025, a growing number of universities are reinstating the SAT requirement for admissions. This change highlights the ongoing importance of SAT scores in the college application process. In this post, we’ll discuss why this shift is happening and provide a comprehensive list of colleges that require SAT scores for the 2025 admissions cycle.
Why Are Colleges Reinstating the SAT Requirement?
There are several key reasons why colleges that require SAT scores are returning to this practice for 2025 admissions:
- Standardized Comparison for Fair Evaluation
The SAT serves as a standardized benchmark, providing a fair comparison tool for applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. Many colleges that require SAT scores believe this helps ensure a level playing field in the admissions process. - Leveling the Playing Field
Test-optional policies led to concerns about disparities in how students were evaluated. By reinstating the SAT requirement, colleges that require SAT scores ensure that all applicants are evaluated based on the same set of criteria, which helps eliminate any biases or inequities. - Addressing Holistic Admissions Challenges
Some universities found it challenging to assess academic potential effectively without the SAT. The standardized test scores provide additional insight, especially for students from less-represented schools. - Student Demand for Clear Admissions Metrics
Many students and parents prefer clear, objective measures of academic readiness. SAT scores give colleges that require SAT a tangible way to assess academic success alongside GPA and extracurricular activities. - Predictive Value of SAT Scores
SAT scores are a proven predictor of college success. Many admissions offices believe that high SAT scores correlate strongly with a student’s ability to perform in a college setting, alongside other factors like GPA.
Which Colleges Require SAT Scores in 2025?
As of February 2025, numerous universities have reinstated the SAT requirement for undergraduate admissions. If you’re applying to colleges that require SAT scores, here’s a list of schools that mandate SAT or ACT scores for the 2025 admissions cycle:
(Note: This list is subject to change, and we recommend checking with individual schools for the most up-to-date admissions requirements.)
| NAME | SAT RW Min | SAT Math Min |
| Stanford University | 730 – 780 | 770 – 800 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 730 – 780 | 790 – 800 |
| Yale University | 740 – 780 | 760 – 800 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 730 – 770 | 770 – 800 |
| Harvard University | 740 – 780 | 760 – 800 |
| Cornell University (will be required in 2026) | 710 – 770 | 750 – 800 |
| Dartmouth College | 740 – 780 | 760 – 800 |
| Brown University | 730 – 780 | 760 – 800 |
| California Institute of Technology | 730 – 780 | 760 – 800 |
| University of Florida | 650 – 730 | 650 – 750 |
| University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (will required GPA below 2.8 on a 4.0 scale) |
670 – 750 | 670 – 780 |
| Georgetown University | 700 – 770 | 690 – 780 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 670 – 760 | 700 – 790 |
| University of Texas, Austin | 620 – 730 | 610 – 770 |
| Purdue University | 600 – 710 | 600 – 760 |
| University of Georgia | 620 – 710 | 600 – 710 |
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville | 600 – 670 | 590 – 670 |
Will More Colleges Follow Suit?
The trend of colleges that require SAT scores seems to be gaining momentum. While many schools continue to offer test-optional policies, the growing number of universities reinstating SAT requirements indicates that more may follow in the coming years. For students planning to apply in 2025, it’s crucial to stay informed and check with your target schools to confirm their testing requirements.
Conclusion: If you’re applying to colleges that require SAT scores, it’s important to prepare well and meet the standardized testing expectations for 2025. Many top universities are reinstating the SAT requirement, and understanding these changes can help you strategize your college applications. Whether or not your chosen colleges require SAT scores, stay proactive in checking admissions requirements, and plan your application strategy accordingly.
What’s Next?
Ready to get started on your digital SAT prep? Sign up for our SAT Prep Crash Courses that will help you build your concept foundation. The course recommends you just the right lessons and questions to tackle, helping you improve fast. Start now!