Most Colleges Maintain Test-Optional Admissions for 2027-2028 Cycle Despite National Debate

Despite recent headlines suggesting a widespread return to mandatory standardized testing, the vast majority of colleges and universities will remain test-optional or test-free for the 2027-2028 admission cycle. FairTest reports that nearly 93% of confirmed institutions will maintain these policies, with 86.4% being test-optional and 3.6% test-free, and only 7.2% requiring standardized tests. This contrasts with a trend among some prestigious universities, including the University of California system, which is considering reinstating requirements due to concerns over student academic preparedness.