Despite Recent Headlines, Most Colleges Remain Test-Optional For Admissions

Despite recent headlines, most colleges will remain test-optional or test-free for the 2027-2028 admission cycle. FairTest reports 86.4% will be test-optional and 3.6% test-free, with only 7.2% requiring standardized tests. This contrasts with a trend among some prestigious universities, like the University of California, considering reinstating requirements due to concerns over student academic preparedness. While Ivy Plus institutions are largely returning to testing, most public flagships and land-grant universities maintain optional policies. Read more: https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeltnietzel/2026/08/28/despite-recent-headlines-most-colleges-remain-test-optional-for-admissions/