Yale expands standardized test options for applicants

Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Yale University Adopts New Test-Flexible Admissions Policy for 2024-25

In response to the nationwide pause in standardized testing caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Yale University has announced a new “test-flexible” policy for the 2024-25 admissions cycle. This policy allows applicants to submit AP and IB test scores in place of traditional standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.

The goal of this new policy is to help applicants put their best foot forward and to help admission officers respond to well-prepared students from all contexts. This change comes as many schools have seen a surge in applications and have had to extend their application deadlines due to the disruptions caused by the pandemic.

While test-optional policies for higher education admissions applications are not new, with roughly 1,900 schools already having made standardized testing optional, supporters of standardized testing argue that it can indicate future grades and post-college success. However, critics argue that reliance on standardized testing disproportionately impacts less wealthy students and favors richer, white, and Asian students.

Research has shown that the college admissions process already favors richer populations, with practices such as legacy admissions, athlete recruitment, and non-academic ratings benefiting high-income applicants. By adopting a more test-flexible policy, Yale University is hoping to level the playing field for all applicants and create a more inclusive admissions process.