93%

of bachelor’s-degree-granting colleges don’t require test score submission as part of the application.

Growth of ACT/SAT-Optional and Test-Free Policies

Cumulative count of institutions in FairTest’s database by first recorded test-optional or test-free policy year. Comprehensive tracking begins with FairTest’s 1997 archive; earlier data points reflect a smaller set of institutions with independently sourced early adoption dates.

Growth of ACT/SAT-Optional and Test-Free Policies

Overview of Current Admission Testing Policies

Since 1985, FairTest has tracked admission testing policies at U.S. colleges and universities. We currently monitor accredited bachelor’s-degree-granting institutions with first-year students, including some community colleges that grant bachelor’s degrees.

Our database contains 2,247 colleges, including 2,182 with verified policies for the 2026–27 application cycle. “2026–27” refers to students applying during that cycle, generally for enrollment in fall 2027.

Here’s a snapshot of the current policies at those colleges.

  • Test optional1,862 colleges84.7%
  • Test free78 colleges3.5%
  • Require scores151 colleges6.9%
  • Policy not yet confirmed108 colleges4.9%

    Filter the list

    FairTest’s Full Test Policy List

    Below is the full list of colleges in our database and their current admission testing policies.

    The interactive database includes filtering, sorting, and additional details that are easier to use on a desktop browser. For example, the Policy Details column defines what the codes mean when you hover on the column header (code 3 means GPA restricted). Policies can change, so applicants should confirm requirements directly with individual schools (we’ve provided links to policy pages for most schools).

    To request access to our full current database — which includes UnitIDs, multi-year policy history, source links, historical TO adoption dates, etc. — please contact us or click here to submit a revision or addition.