Harvard University, following the lead of other Ivy League schools, has announced the reinstatement of standardized testing requirements for admissions starting with the Class of 2029. The decision was made based on evidence that standardized tests are predictive of academic success and can help identify promising students from less-resourced high schools. The university will accept the SAT or ACT for this requirement, with other tests considered in exceptional cases. While test scores are an important factor in the application process, they are just one aspect considered by the admission committee. Harvard had implemented a test-optional policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed students to apply without submitting test scores for several application cycles.
Yale and Dartmouth had also announced the reinstatement of standardized testing requirements for undergraduate applicants, citing data that suggested test scores are a strong predictor of future academic performance. Brown University made a similar decision to reinstate testing for the Class of 2029. These Ivy League schools are aligning with the research that supports the use of standardized tests in admissions decisions. The decision to reinstate testing is a move towards a more holistic evaluation of applicants, considering all aspects of their academic and personal achievements.
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