Complete List of Colleges That Require SAT or ACT Scores for Admissions

Many colleges—including privates, publics, and state higher ed systems—reinstated their test score requirements this year, showing colleges continue to value the SAT as part of their admissions processes after experimenting with test-optional policies during the pandemic. As you get ready for the college application process, it's important to know which schools require test scores for all applicants. Many other colleges are test optional or test preferred, meaning they use SAT or ACT scores in admission if submitted, and may also use them to award scholarships, place students in appropriate courses, or inform student support and research efforts. 
 
Here are 21 private and 42 public colleges that currently or soon will require, SAT or ACT scores for admission. 
 
Important Notes:  

• This list changes frequently, so please visit the admissions website of the colleges you’re considering to verify their test score policies. 

Public Colleges That Require the SAT or ACT

After service academies, the list of public colleges is ordered by state and application volume.

Private Colleges That Require the SAT or ACT

Private colleges are listed in order of application volume. 

This list is sorted by application volume.Having SAT scores will ensure you can apply to any of the colleges listed above and may help you stand out on applications to test optional colleges as well. Register to take the SAT today.