CCPrep’s Guidance SAT/ACT Testing for the Class of 2027 and beyond

While we make every effort to post up to date information, requirements continue to change constantly and we recommend students verify all requirements and deadlines directly with each college they are applying to.

This FAQ is our effort to provide as much clarity & guidance to the students & families in the CCPrep community as possible, so that you can be empowered with the information that you need to make the right decision for your students. 

FAQ: I heard that colleges are no longer requiring the SAT/ACT for students in the Class of 2027. Does that mean my student does not need to worry about their SAT/ACT score?

It’s important to know that colleges themselves decide what they will require for admission, and admissions requirements for students in the Class of 2027 will vary widely by college. Also, some colleges may use test scores for scholarships and/or placement. Here’s a summary of the CSUs, UCs, & private colleges are saying about the SAT/ACT for Class of 2027 students:

California State Universities (CSUs): The CSUs have announced that they will not be using the SAT/ACT at all in their admissions decisions for the Class of 2027.

University of California System (UCs): The lawsuit settlement involving the UC schools has expired, and the UCs now have the ability to begin requiring the SAT or ACT for admissions. No campuses have yet done so, but we will keep monitoring the situation to keep our clients informed.

Private Colleges & Out-of-State Colleges: While the fact that some private & out of state colleges have made the SAT/ACT “optional” has made big headlines over the past year, not all of them have made that decision, and many have started requiring again. This means students applying to private or out-of-state colleges should still ensure that they take the SAT and/or ACT exams. 

Furthermore, recent new articles have provided analysis suggesting that acceptance rate to many colleges is actually higher for those who have submitted an SAT/ACT score as compared to those who applied as test-optional without an SAT/ACT score.

Summary: Unless you know your student is only applying to colleges that will not consider the SAT/ACT at all in 2027 (for example, only applying to CSUs or UCs), it’s best to have your student continue to prep for the SAT and/or ACT exams in order to help them craft their strongest possible applications. We harbor anxiety that students who choose to forgo the SAT/ACT because some colleges have gone “test optional” will find it tough to be awarded admittance to their top choice universities. For students in the Classes of 2027 and beyond, you should still plan on prepping and taking your SAT/ACT exams.