Columbia Makes SAT/ACT Mandatory Again — The Last Ivy to Drop Test-Optional

Columbia University will require SAT or ACT scores from all undergraduate applicants starting August 2027, making it the final Ivy League school to end its test-optional policy. The decision followed a multi-year faculty review that concluded standardized test scores are 'a useful indicator of potential student success.' If you're planning to apply for fall 2028 or later, plan on submitting scores — and aim high: the median SAT among enrolled Columbia students is 1540, and the median ACT is 35. Hardship waivers will be available for applicants who can't access testing due to financial constraints, lack of nearby test sites, or natural disasters, with no penalty for requesting one. The 2026-27 admissions cycle remains test optional, so if you're applying this coming fall, you still have a choice — but that window is closing.