Is Harvard still test-optional for the class of 2025?
I'm a rising senior and planning to apply to Harvard this fall. I've been stressed about the SAT, and I heard that a lot of schools went test-optional during the pandemic, but I’m not sure if Harvard is still following that policy. My scores are fine, but not amazing, and I was hoping maybe I wouldn’t have to submit them if it’s optional.
Does anyone know if Harvard is keeping their test-optional policy for the class entering in 2025? Also, if you don’t submit scores, does anyone know if it hurts your chances compared to people who do?
I’m debating whether I should try to retake my SAT or focus more on the rest of my app. Any insight would be awesome!
Does anyone know if Harvard is keeping their test-optional policy for the class entering in 2025? Also, if you don’t submit scores, does anyone know if it hurts your chances compared to people who do?
I’m debating whether I should try to retake my SAT or focus more on the rest of my app. Any insight would be awesome!
6 months ago
•
69 views
Luis Nario-Malberg
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Harvard has officially announced that it will remain test-optional for applicants to the Class of 2030 (students applying in fall 2025, entering in 2026). You are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admission. If you feel that your test scores don't reflect your academic potential, you can absolutely choose not to include them, and your application will still receive full consideration.
Harvard has emphasized that students who do not submit test scores will not be disadvantaged in the admissions process. They have stated that there are no minimum test score requirements, and they will continue to review applications holistically, focusing on academic achievements, essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars. Many students have been admitted in recent cycles without submitting test scores.
When deciding whether to send your scores, consider how your SAT aligns with Harvard’s middle 50% range (for the most recent class, that was roughly a 1490–1580). If your score is near or above the lower end, submitting it could slightly help you. If it’s significantly below, there’s no harm in withholding it—especially if the rest of your application is strong.
Rather than retaking the SAT out of anxiety, you might get more benefit from spending that time refining your essays, solidifying teacher recommendations, or deepening your involvement in meaningful activities. For example, a student with a slightly below-average SAT but an outstanding personal essay and a distinctive community service project could stand out more than someone with a higher score but a generic application.
In short, Harvard is test-optional for your cycle, so focus on the strengths you can best showcase. Good luck with your application!
Harvard has emphasized that students who do not submit test scores will not be disadvantaged in the admissions process. They have stated that there are no minimum test score requirements, and they will continue to review applications holistically, focusing on academic achievements, essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars. Many students have been admitted in recent cycles without submitting test scores.
When deciding whether to send your scores, consider how your SAT aligns with Harvard’s middle 50% range (for the most recent class, that was roughly a 1490–1580). If your score is near or above the lower end, submitting it could slightly help you. If it’s significantly below, there’s no harm in withholding it—especially if the rest of your application is strong.
Rather than retaking the SAT out of anxiety, you might get more benefit from spending that time refining your essays, solidifying teacher recommendations, or deepening your involvement in meaningful activities. For example, a student with a slightly below-average SAT but an outstanding personal essay and a distinctive community service project could stand out more than someone with a higher score but a generic application.
In short, Harvard is test-optional for your cycle, so focus on the strengths you can best showcase. Good luck with your application!
Luis Nario-Malberg
Mooresville, North Carolina
Harvard College, Class of 2018, A.B. in Philosophy
Experience
5 years