Columbia University Reinstates Standardized Testing Requirement for Undergraduate Admissions

Policy Changes and Affected Students

Columbia College and Columbia Engineering at Columbia University will reinstate the standardized testing requirement for undergraduate admissions. Starting in August 2027, all first-year and transfer applicants must submit standardized test scores. The 2026-2027 application cycle will remain test-optional.

Impact and Advice for Fall 2028 Applicants

For students planning to enroll in Fall 2028, this means they must submit SAT or ACT scores for the 2027-2028 application cycle. There is no minimum score requirement. Students can take the tests as late as November (for Early Decision) and February (for Regular Decision).

Who is affected: Current high school seniors applying for Fall 2027 enrollment are not affected and can still decide whether to submit their scores; current high school juniors planning to enroll in Fall 2028 and considering Columbia University need to prepare for the SAT or ACT. According to the official website, the latest test date for ED applicants is November of the application year, and for Regular Decision applicants, it is February of the following year.

Our advice: Since the SAT/ACT generally requires time for retakes, we recommend taking the first test between the second semester of junior year and the summer before senior year. Detailed requirements are subject to Columbia University's subsequent official announcements.

Testing and Application Details

• Test Subjects: If submitting the ACT, it must include English, Math, Reading, and Composite scores; Science and Writing are optional; if submitting the SAT, it must include the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math sections.
• Score Submission: For the 2026-2027 application cycle, the official website states that scores can be self-reported on the Common App or Coalition Application, or official scores can be sent directly by the testing agency; score submission methods for the 2027-2028 application cycle are subject to subsequent official announcements.
• Waiver Policy: If unable to take the test due to financial hardship, lack of testing centers, or natural disasters, applicants can request a waiver during the application process without being disadvantaged in the admissions process.
• International Students: Applicants whose native language is not English must also meet Columbia University's English proficiency and international student application requirements.

Source: https://undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu/apply/process/testing. Policies are subject to the latest official releases.