Yale University has followed Dartmouth and has now also reinstated mandatory standardized testing for applicants beginning with the Class of 2029. Under the newly labeled “test flexible policy,” applicants will have a choice of submitting a score from the ACT, SAT, or AP or IB. Please note those applicants who select to submit AP or IB scores must submit the scores of all the subject tests they have taken.
As Yale explained on their website, “Our experience with both test-optional and test-required policies has persuaded us of three things. First, when used thoughtfully as part of a whole-person review process, tests can help increase rather than decrease diversity in our class. Second, a narrow focus on only the ACT and SAT can discourage promising students from considering colleges like Yale. Finally, inviting students to apply without any test scores can, inadvertently, disadvantage students from low-income, first-generation, and rural backgrounds.”