**What changed:** In a notable policy reversal, every Ivy League university except Columbia now requires applicants to submit standardized test scores as part of their undergraduate applications. The shift marks a return from the broad test-optional wave that began during the COVID-19 pandemic and follows renewed emphasis on measurable metrics in highly selective admissions.
**Why this matters to students in Jordan and the Middle East:** Ivy League schools are among the most sought-after by Jordanian and regional applicants because of scholarship, research and career opportunities. Reinstating score requirements means test performance will again be a central factor in admissions decisions, affecting competitiveness—especially for international applicants who cannot rely on in-person local evaluations or legacy and regional networks. Admissions officers often use scores alongside GPA, essays and recommendations to evaluate academic readiness.
**Practical steps students should take now:** Register for the SAT or ACT as soon as possible—international seats, particularly in Amman and other regional centers, fill quickly. Allow 3–6 months of focused preparation for a first official exam and plan at least one retake if needed. Confirm each Ivy’s accepted exams (SAT, ACT, or any alternatives they list), policies on superscoring, and score-reporting rules (College Board/ACT Score Choice options). If you apply in an Early Action/Early Decision round, aim to complete testing by the summer or early fall before application season; for Regular Decision, complete scores by early fall at the latest.
**Broader testing landscape and alternatives:** While the Ivy change is significant, the standardized testing market is evolving: the SAT has seen renewed interest, the ACT is making format updates, and alternative tests such as the Classic Learning Test (CLT) have appeared in some U.S. states and college conversations. Before choosing an exam, check each target university’s official admissions page to ensure the test you plan to take is accepted for the application cycle.
**How Shatnawi For College Admissions can help:** Students in Jordan can consult experienced counselors to map test timelines, choose between SAT/ACT (or any accepted alternative), and build a retake strategy that aligns with application deadlines. Shatnawi offers planning for test registration, prep scheduling, and documentation logistics for international score reporting.
For guidance tailored to your application timeline and test plan, contact Shatnawi For College Admissions And Academic Consultations via WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.