Is SAT or ACT Required for US College Admissions in 2026?

Alt text: Student preparing for SAT and ACT admissions testing for US universities.

Short answer: SAT or ACT is required at some US colleges in 2026, optional at many colleges, preferred at some, and not considered at test-blind colleges. Students must check the official testing policy for each college before applying.

Expanded answer: College Board's BigFuture maintains a page of colleges that currently or soon require SAT or ACT scores, but it warns that the list changes frequently. ACT explains that test optional means scores are not required for admission but are considered if submitted. Test blind means scores are not considered for admission, though they may still be used for placement, scholarships, or advising.

For Indian students, the best testing decision depends on:

Your target colleges Your score compared with admitted-student ranges Scholarship requirements Major-specific requirements Time available before deadlines Whether test prep will affect board performance

Oxbrivy internal link: Use Oxbrivy AI Compass to compare US college shortlists with and without SAT/ACT scores.

Mini FAQ: Is SAT compulsory for all US universities? No. Can a test-optional college still consider my score? Yes, if you submit it. Can scholarships require scores even if admission is test optional? Sometimes. Check each scholarship and college policy.