Brown University Backtracks on ‘Test-Optional’ Policy, Reinstates Standardized Tests for Admission

The Ivy League university said the decision followed ’months of analysis and deliberation.’

People walk past Sayles Hall on the campus of Brown University, in Providence, R.I., on May 7, 2012. AP Photo/Steven Senne, File

Brown University will reinstate its standardized testing requirements for admission for students applying for the 2025-2026 academic year, officials announced on March 5.

In a press release, the university said its decision to backtrack on its “test-optional” policy that was rolled out during the COVID-19 pandemic followed “months of analysis and deliberation” by its ad hoc committee on admissions policies.