Admissions Blog

5 American Colleges with the Most Grueling Standardized Testing Requirements for First-Year Applicants

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Craig Meister

The 2025-2026 college admissions process is almost upon us. This means it’s an important time for members of the high school Class of 2026 – especially those who want to run the gauntlet this admissions cycle – to be aware of the the five colleges with the most grueling standardized test requirements for first-year admission.

My selection is based on institutions with rigorous and in-demand STEM or academic programs, mandatory test submission policies, and high score thresholds. I’ve prioritized schools with explicit requirements for SAT/ACT scores (and in one case AP/IB exam scores) with high benchmarks for scores earned on these tests.

1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Standardized Test Expectations: SAT/ACT required for Fall 2025 entry. No minimum score, but admitted students typically score in the top 1% nationally (SAT: 1580+ median, ACT: 35-36). Caltech superscores SAT but not ACT, considering the highest section scores across test dates.

AP/IB Scores: Students who’ve taken AP or IB exams are asked to submit all scores by the application deadline (November 1 for Restrictive Early Action, January 3 for Regular Decision). Note that a score of 5 on AP Calculus AB/BC, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1/2/C, or 6/7 on IB Higher Level (HL) Math, Chemistry, or Physics can also substitute for missing high school courses, with documentation of unresolvable issues (ex: course unavailability at your high school). This implies high scores are expected for competitiveness. Why Grueling: Caltech’s low acceptance rate (3.1% for Class of 2027) and STEM focus demand near-perfect scores. The expectation to submit all AP/IB scores for those who’ve taken them, combined with the need for 5s (AP) or 6/7s (IB) for course substitutions, sets a high bar. Learn more about Caltech’s switch from test-blind to test-required on steroids in my video here:

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Standardized Test Expectations: SAT/ACT required for 2025-2026. Admitted students typically score SAT 1540-1600 or ACT 35-36 (top 1%). MIT superscores both tests, taking the highest section scores across all test dates.

AP/IB Scores: Students are encouraged to self-report all AP and IB scores on the application. While not strictly required, MIT’s 2025 policy states students “should” report these scores, implying a strong expectation, especially for STEM subjects like AP Calculus BC, AP Physics C, or IB HL Math/Sciences, where scores of 5 (AP) or 6/7 (IB) are typical for admitted students.

Why Grueling: MIT’s 4.1% acceptance rate and emphasis on STEM excellence demand near-perfect standardized test scores. The expectation to report all AP/IB scores, combined with the need for high scores in advanced STEM subjects, makes the testing requirements intense. The focus on integrating IB Extended Essays or AP coursework with STEM extracurriculars adds pressure.

3. Yale University

Standardized Test Expectations: Yale’s “test-flexible” policy for 2025 requires an SAT, ACT, AP, or IB score. Students with AP-designated courses are recommended to submit corresponding AP scores (even if using SAT/ACT), and those opting for AP/IB scores alone must submit all exam scores taken. Admitted students typically score SAT 1500-1580, ACT 33-35, or AP 5s/IB HL 6-7s in multiple subjects.

Why Grueling: Yale’s policy shift to require some standardized test score (including AP/IB as alternatives) and the expectation to submit all AP/IB scores for relevant courses create a high bar. The need for multiple 5s (AP) or 6/7s (IB) in rigorous subjects (e.g., math, sciences, humanities) alongside a 3.7% acceptance rate makes this quite demanding.

4. Georgetown University

Standardized Test Expectations: SAT/ACT required for 2025-2026. Admitted students typically score SAT 1410-1550 or ACT 32-35. Georgetown does not superscore but reviews all test attempts, expecting consistently high performance.

AP/IB Scores: Students in AP curricula are as of now “encouraged” to submit AP scores to supplement their application, implying an expectation for those who’ve taken AP exams, especially in core subjects like math, sciences, or history. Scores of 4-5 are competitive, with 5s preferred for selective programs like the Walsh School of Foreign Service.

Why Grueling: Georgetown’s 12.3% acceptance rate (higher than others but still selective) and requirement to submit all SAT/ACT attempts, combined with the expectation of AP scores for those in AP courses, demand strong performance across multiple tests. The focus on holistic review with high scores in relevant subjects (e.g., AP Economics for international economics) adds rigor.

5. Dartmouth College

Standardized Test Expectations: SAT/ACT required for 2025-2026. Admitted students typically score SAT 1500-1580 or ACT 33-35. Dartmouth superscores both tests, considering the highest section scores.

AP/IB Scores: Students with AP scores are “strongly encouraged” to submit them via the Common App’s Tests section, implying an expectation for those who’ve taken AP exams. Competitive scores are 5s (AP) or 6/7s (IB HL), particularly in subjects like math, sciences, or humanities, aligning with Dartmouth’s academic rigor.

Why Grueling: Dartmouth’s 6.2% acceptance rate and reinstated SAT/ACT requirement, combined with the strong encouragement to submit AP/IB scores, create a high expectation for multiple near-perfect scores. The emphasis on rigorous coursework (e.g., AP Calculus, AP Physics) and high test performance makes this challenging.

Why These Colleges?

These institutions were selected for their:

Mandatory Test Policies: All require SAT/ACT or, in Yale’s case, allow AP/IB as alternatives, with Caltech, MIT, Yale, and Dartmouth explicitly encouraging or requiring AP/IB score submission for those who’ve taken them.

High Score Expectations: Admitted students consistently score in the top 1-5% (SAT 1500+, ACT 33+, AP 5, IB 6/7), reflecting intense academic standards.

STEM/Academic Rigor: Caltech and MIT focus on STEM, requiring high AP/IB scores in math and sciences; Yale, Georgetown, and Dartmouth demand excellence across disciplines, relevant for programs like international economics.

Low Acceptance Rates: Ranging from 3.1% (Caltech) to 12.3% (Georgetown), these schools are highly selective, amplifying the importance of top scores.

Final Notes

Caltech’s Unique Policy: Caltech stands out for its explicit requirement to submit all AP/IB scores for those who’ve taken them, with a clear benchmark (AP 5, IB 6/7) for course substitutions, making its expectations particularly grueling.

Trend Toward AP/IB: Since the College Board discontinued SAT Subject Tests in 2021, top colleges have shifted to valuing AP/IB scores more heavily, especially for STEM or specialized programs.

Holistic Context: High scores alone aren’t enough; these schools expect strong GPAs (4.0-4.2 weighted), rigorous coursework, and extracurriculars, but test scores are a critical filter.

The Best and Worst 2025-2026 Common App Essay Prompts

Posted on April 15, 2025 by Craig Meister

Did you know that some of the 2025-2026 Common App essay prompts will bring you down like quicksand while others give you the exact structure and framing that you need to show and tell a story that colleges will love?

Before watching my in depth video revealing the best and worst Common App essay prompts, it’s important that you know the seven prompts first-year college applicants have to choose from during the 2025-2026 admissions cycle in order to write one strong Common App essay of up to 650-words. The seven prompt options are:

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Overall, to craft a Common App essay that maximizes your chances of impressing admissions officers, I always recommend starting by choosing a topic that reveals something new, authentic, and unique about you. The essay prompts are ultimately designed to let you show and tell a story only you can show and tell. Reflect deeply on moments that shaped your values, perspective, or growth, whether it’s a small, personal experience (like a conversation that changed your outlook) or a larger challenge (like overcoming a setback). Avoid generic themes like sports victories or mission trips unless you can frame them in a way that’s deeply personal and unexpected. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so specificity—vivid details, emotions, and insights—sets you apart. For example, instead of writing about “leadership,” describe the moment you hesitated before speaking up in a group and what pushing past that fear taught you.

Once you’ve picked a story, focus on showing rather than telling for at least half the essay. Use sensory details and dialogue to pull readers into the scene, letting your personality shine through your voice. If you’re writing about, say, a family tradition, don’t just say it was meaningful; describe the smell of the food, the sound of laughter, or the awkward silence when someone brought up a tough topic. This paints a picture that feels alive and lets your character emerge naturally. Avoid overloading the essay with objective achievements (especially if you shared details about them elsewhere in your app); your activities list already covers those. Instead, use the essay to reveal what drives you, what you wrestle with, or how you’ve evolved. Admissions officers want to see self-awareness, not perfection, so don’t shy away from vulnerability if it’s honest – like admitting you didn’t have all the answers in a tough moment.

Structure matters too, but it doesn’t need to be rigid. A strong essay often follows a clear arc: set the scene, explore the experience, and reflect on its impact. Spend the first forty percent drawing readers in with a compelling hook and context, the next twenty to forty percent diving into the heart of the story, and the final twenty to forty percent connecting it to your broader perspective or lessons learned. Reflection is key; admissions officers look for evidence you’ve grown or learned something meaningful. For instance, if you write about failing at a project, don’t end with “I worked harder next time;” instead, dig into how that failure reshaped your approach to collaboration or risk. Keep it concise! Every sentence should earn its place. Aim for 625 words minimum.

Resist the urge to write what you think colleges want to read. Admissions officers can spot inauthenticity a mile away, so don’t force a “perfect” narrative or mimic sample essays. Write in your own voice, whether it’s witty, introspective, or straightforward. Let your essay sound like you. Get feedback, but not too much; one or two trusted readers (a teacher, counselor, or mentor) can help refine clarity and impact without diluting your style. Revise multiple drafts to polish phrasing and flow, reading aloud to catch awkward spots. If you’re stuck, free write or engage in a fire writing excersice without judgment to uncover what matters most to you. The goal isn’t to dazzle with big words or drama but to leave officers feeling like they know you—and want you in their community.

I also recommend aligning your essay with the rest of your application without repeating it. If your activities list screams “robotics nerd,” your essay could explore a quieter side, like your love for teaching younger kids to code. This adds depth, showing you’re multidimensional. Check each college’s supplemental essays too; some schools ask for similar prompts, so ensure your Common App essay doesn’t overlap too much. Proofread obsessively for typos. A great essay won’t overcome weak grades or test scores, but it can tip the scales by making you memorable. Write something you’re proud of, something that captures who you are right now, and remember this is your chance to speak directly to the people deciding your future.

In the below thirty-minute in-depth video I grade and rank each of the seven Common App essay prompts in order to help you determine which will give you the best chance of positively differentiating your Common App and thus giving you the best chance to get into the colleges on your list.

Sit back, relax (though be ready to take notes), and enjoy this insider’s guide tackling the most important essay assignment of your life so far!

For more expert guidance as you complete your Common App essay, make sure to read or watch the articles/videos linked below.

The Stats You Need: Most Popular & Least Popular Common App Essay Prompts

Common App Essay: Size Does Matter

Why Your College Application Essay is So Bad

Why Your College Application Essay is Awful

Ultimate College Application Essay Brainstorm

Secret to a Successful College Application Essay First Draft

Mind the gaps on your Common App essay!

And when you’ve finished your Common App and want to know if it’s as strong as possible and whether or not, in its current condition, your chances of admission are impressive, inconclusive, or inadequate, you need My Pre-Read.

Good luck!

Yale Receives 1,000 Fewer Early Action Applications

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Craig Meister

Yale announced early this year that it would return to being a test-required institution for first-year applicants during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, so it should come as no surprise that Yale received 1,000 fewer Single-Choice Early Action applications this fall than it did last fall. Middling athletes, development cases, legacies, and underrepresented applicants are the hardest hit by Yale’s decision to yet again require standardized testing as part of its application review process.

This is what Affirmative Action and Test-Optional looks like at University of Wisconsin-Madison

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Craig Meister

What does a decade’s worth of increasingly identity-based admissions look like at University of Wisconsin-Madison? You’re about to find out. But formal Affirmative Action, which was outlawed by The Supreme Court of the United States last year, is just part of the story.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has seen a notable rise in popularity among first-year applicants in recent years driven by several factors including, but not limited to:

Academic Reputation
UW-Madison is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the U.S., known for its strong programs in fields like engineering, business, education, and the sciences. Its research output and faculty achievements have bolstered its appeal.

Diverse Offerings
The university has expanded its academic programs and research initiatives, attracting students with varied interests. New interdisciplinary programs and innovative majors have broadened its appeal.

Campus Experience
The vibrant campus life, with a rich array of extracurricular activities, cultural events, and a strong sense of community, has drawn students looking for a well-rounded college experience.

State and National Recognition
Increased visibility through national media and success stories of alumni have enhanced the university’s reputation. The Badger sports teams also contribute to a sense of pride and community.

Affordability and Financial Aid
Competitive tuition rates for in-state students, along with robust financial aid programs, make UW-Madison an attractive option for many families.

Strategic Enrollment Efforts
The university has implemented targeted outreach and recruitment strategies, including diversity initiatives, to attract a wider range of applicants.

Location
Madison, known for its quality of life, cultural vibrancy, and outdoor activities, is an appealing location for students seeking both academic and personal growth.

As a result of these factors, the number of first-year applicants has surged, leading to increasingly competitive admissions processes in recent years. This trend reflects not only the university’s strengths but also a broader demand for high-quality education and campus experiences. Yet, with more demand, comes lower acceptance rates and harder calls for admissions officers who are also deputized to increase the university’s undergraduate student diversity in an environment increasingly focused on identity.

The result is that University of Wisconsin-Madison has made significant strides in increasing diversity based on race, ethnicity, and the college going history of students’ families. The student body reflects an increasing mix of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. To make this happen, University of Wisconsin-Madison has prioritized:

Recruitment Initiatives
UW-Madison has launched targeted recruitment programs aimed at high schools with significant populations of underrepresented students. This includes partnerships with community organizations and outreach to diverse communities.

Diversity and Inclusion Offices
The university has established offices dedicated to diversity and inclusion, which work on initiatives to support underrepresented students and foster an inclusive campus environment.

Scholarships and Financial Aid
Increased funding for scholarships aimed at underrepresented groups has helped to make the university more accessible. Programs like the Wisconsin Covenant provide opportunities for students from low-income backgrounds.

Cultural Centers
UW-Madison has various cultural centers, such as the Multicultural Student Center and the Black Cultural Center, which provide support, programming, and community for students from diverse backgrounds.

Curriculum and Training
The university has incorporated diversity training into its faculty development programs and has encouraged the inclusion of diverse perspectives in course offerings.

Retention Programs
Initiatives aimed at supporting the success of diverse students, including mentorship programs, academic support, and community-building events, have been implemented to improve retention and graduation rates.

Test Optional Admissions
Under the guise of COVID-19, the university went test optional in 2020, but the pandemic is long gone and UW Madison remains test optional.

Increasing Use of Affirmative Action
The video below illuminates how the university’s admissions officers increasingly harnessed Affirmative Action to grow certain demographics’ presence on campus through the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

With the results of the Class of 2028 census now in, we can now look holistically at ten years worth (all the way back to the 2014-2015 admissions cycle) of admissions and enrollment data from first-year applicants/students at University of Wisconsin-Madison, which I dissect below. Only time will tell how diverse (in all ways) the university will be over the coming years in our brave new post-Affirmative Action world.

Annoyed by the SRAR, SSAR, or Common App Courses & Grades section this October? You’re not alone.

Posted on October 3, 2024 by Craig Meister

It’s October, so it means that many high school seniors are spending a lot of time completing their college applications before all-important early deadlines. While this can be stressful enough when one is applying to only colleges on the Common App, it can become downright painful when having to complete extra requirements beyond the standard Common App that certain colleges and universities are now expecting of college applicants. In particular, completing the SRAR (Self-Reported Academic Record), SSAR (Self-Reported Student Academic Record), or the Courses & Grades section of the Common App can be a source of major annoyance for high school seniors applying to college for several reasons.

First, the sheer volume of information required can feel overwhelming. Students must meticulously compile and accurately input their grades, course titles, and credits for every semester, through at leas the first three years of high school. This can be particularly frustrating for those who may have taken advanced placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual enrollment courses, as they have to ensure they represent these classes correctly. Pity the student who has attended more than one high school, especially if he or she has earned grades on different grading scales!

Second, the process can be time-consuming. Balancing academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs already stretches a senior’s schedule thin. Adding the task of inputting detailed academic records into an online form can feel like just another burden, especially when students are juggling multiple applications and deadlines.

Watch: Colleges Requiring/Recommending First-Year Applicants Complete the SRAR/SSAR

Moreover, the potential for errors adds to the stress. Students worry about inadvertently misreporting their grades or omitting a course, which could lead to complications or misinterpretations during the admission process. This concern about accuracy can lead to second-guessing and anxiety, detracting from the exhilaration one should experience when applying to college.

Finally, the repetitive nature of the task can be demoralizing. Many students have already spent considerable time preparing their application essays and personal statements, so they might find it tedious to recount their academic history in a structured format. This repetition can sap their motivation and enthusiasm for the application process, making it feel more like a chore than an opportunity for self-expression and reflection.

Watch: Well-Known Colleges Requiring Common App Courses & Grades Section

But, right now, thousands of college applicants are just having to grin and bear this madness. Just know you are not alone in feeling that the SRAR, SSAR, or Common App’s Courses & Grades section is an unnecessary hurdle in what should be a more engaging and hopeful (and less mind-numbing) journey toward college. Especially considering many students’ counselors would be happy to – or are already – submitting to these very same colleges that require or recommend completion of the SRAR, SSAR, or Courses & Grades section current applicants’ official high school transcripts. Talk about redundant!

Finding the Best Colleges That Accept Your GPA: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on October 3, 2024 by Jose Angelo Gallegos

When it comes to college admissions, your GPA is a major determinant of your potential options. Understanding where your GPA places you can help narrow down your college choices and ensure you’re applying to institutions that align with your academic profile. In this guide, we’ll explore how to find the best colleges that accept your GPA and provide a list of schools for each GPA range, from 3.3 to 3.8.

Understanding Your GPA and What It Means

Your Grade Point Average (GPA) is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of your academic performance and a key factor that admissions committees consider. A strong GPA demonstrates your ability to handle rigorous coursework, which is why many colleges set minimum GPA requirements for prospective students. But every student is unique, and so are the colleges that might be a good fit based on your academic achievements.

Here’s a breakdown of what your GPA could mean in the context of college admissions:

3.0 to 3.4 GPA: Many state universities and less competitive private colleges accept GPAs in this range.
3.5 to 3.7 GPA: This is a strong GPA that can make you a competitive applicant for a broad range of public and private colleges.
3.8 and above: A higher GPA can make you eligible for more selective institutions, including some highly ranked liberal arts colleges and public universities.

Let’s dive into the specific GPA ranges and the colleges that are most likely to accept students with those GPAs.

Colleges That Accept a 3.3 GPA

If you have a 3.3 GPA, you’re in a good position to apply to a variety of public universities and private colleges that focus on holistic admissions. Here are ten schools that accept students with a 3.3 GPA:

University of Oregon
California State University, Long Beach
University of Arizona
Texas State University
University of Kentucky
Louisiana State University
University of Utah
University of Kansas
Michigan State University
West Virginia University

For more information, visit our detailed guide on Colleges That Accept a 3.3 GPA.

Colleges That Accept a 3.4 GPA

A 3.4 GPA can open doors to a wide array of schools that value well-rounded students. Here are ten colleges and universities that accept students with a 3.4 GPA:

University of San Francisco
University of Denver
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Iowa
Baylor University
Indiana University Bloomington
University of the Pacific
Clemson University
University of Vermont
Syracuse University

Learn more about the top universities that accept a 3.4 GPA in our article on The Top 7 Colleges and Universities That Accept a 3.4 GPA.

Colleges That Accept a 3.5 GPA

Having a 3.5 GPA places you in a competitive range for many respected colleges and universities. Consider applying to these ten schools if you have a 3.5 GPA:

University of Miami
Pennsylvania State University
University of Connecticut
University of Delaware
Virginia Tech
Purdue University
University of Massachusetts Amherst
University of South Carolina
Clark University
Florida State University

For more information, explore our guide on Best Schools to Get Into with a 3.5 GPA.

Colleges That Accept a 3.6 GPA

With a 3.6 GPA, you’re considered a strong candidate for many reputable schools, including some competitive private colleges. Consider these ten institutions if your GPA is 3.6:

American University
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Georgia
Ohio State University
Pepperdine University
University of Pittsburgh
Elon University
University of Washington
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Miami University (Ohio)

To learn more, visit our list of Colleges That Accept a 3.6 GPA.

Colleges That Accept a 3.7 GPA

A 3.7 GPA reflects a high level of academic achievement, making you a viable candidate for many top-tier schools. Here are ten colleges known for accepting students with a 3.7 GPA:

University of Florida
University of Maryland, College Park
University of Miami
Southern Methodist University
University of Richmond
Fordham University
Villanova University
Bentley University
University of Denver
Marquette University

Explore the full list of options in our article on Colleges That Accept a 3.7 GPA.

Colleges That Accept a 3.8 GPA

For students with a 3.8 GPA, the possibilities are even broader. This GPA level indicates consistent high performance and a strong commitment to academics. Consider these ten schools if you have a 3.8 GPA:

University of California, Irvine
University of California, Davis
University of Michigan
University of Texas at Austin
Boston University
Northeastern University
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Wake Forest University

To see more details, visit our guide on Colleges That Accept a 3.8 GPA.

How to Choose the Right College for Your GPA

Finding the right college is about more than just meeting GPA requirements. Consider the following factors when evaluating your options:

Location: Think about whether you want to attend school in a specific state or region.
Program Strength: Look for schools that offer strong programs in your intended major or field of interest.
Campus Culture: Research the student life, campus activities, and overall atmosphere to ensure it’s a good fit.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Investigate whether the schools offer scholarships or financial aid packages that you’re eligible for based on your GPA.

Next Steps

Ready to start your college search? Use our GPA-specific guides linked above to explore colleges that match your academic profile. Remember, your GPA is just one part of your college application, and finding the right school means considering all aspects of your academic and personal goals. Good luck with your search!

Word to the Wise: Apply ED and EA this Fall

Posted on July 31, 2024 by Craig Meister

It should go without saying, but to be a smart, strategic, and successful college applicant this fall, you should try you hardest to apply to multiple Early Action colleges at the same time as you apply Early Decision to your first choice college.

Learn more by watching the video below, and good luck as the official start to the 2024-2025 admissions cycle kicks off tomorrow.