We have described our policy as a “suspension” of our testing requirement, rather than a “test-optional” policy, because the latter term implies that we are indifferent as to whether a student who has taken the exams should submit their scores. We encourage students to send scores if they have them, because they help us make better admissions decisions. However, given the disruptions caused by the pandemic, we cannot and will not require them for an application to be considered. While we can’t know what the future holds, we do expect to return to requiring the SAT/ACT once it is possible for everyone to take tests safely.
What is the difference between being test-optional and suspending a testing requirement?
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Testing FAQs
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FAQ / First-year application
Can I request that my scores not be considered after submitting my application?
Scores cannot be redacted from applications after they have been submitted. We encourage you to look at this blog post to better understand the rationale and details of our testing requirement… -
FAQ / Testing
Does MIT accept results from the old SAT?
We will accept all test formats, including all test results from exams taken before the new SAT. While MIT does not require either the ACT writing section or SAT optional… -
FAQ / First-year application
How can I explain the context of my grades/scores, and/or provide additional information?
On the application, there are designated spaces to provide additional context on how the pandemic or other circumstances may have disrupted your coursework, access to testing, and extracurricular activities. If you feel it… -
FAQ / Testing
How does MIT consider test scores? Does MIT Superscore?
Note: Due to the pandemic, our office will be suspending our usual SAT/ACT testing requirement for the 2021–22 application cycle for both first-year and transfer students. You can learn more… -
FAQ / First-year application
How does MIT use my test scores?
MIT uses a holistic admissions process, so test scores are just one factor among many for evaluating your preparedness for MIT. Test scores are evaluated alongside other components of the…