Standardized Tests - Test-Free Through 2025
TL;DR – Caltech does not consider SAT or ACT testing. Period. Exclamation mark. Don't send it. We won't see it. Learn more about what we do look for in the admissions process.
| Test | Requirements |
|---|---|
| SAT/ACT | Test-free through students applying for Fall 2025 (5-year moratorium) |
| SAT Subject Tests | Never considered |
| AP Tests | Never required (see Academic Preparation for information on course credit) |
| English Proficiency Exams |
Required of all international students unless: 1) your native language is English, or 2) English is the primary language of instruction in your secondary school. |
Five-year Moratorium on requirement and consideration of SAT and/or ACT test scores
In June 2020, Caltech enacted a two-year moratorium on both the requirement and consideration of SAT and/or ACT test scores as part of the undergraduate admissions process. This change, made in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and its continuing impact on access to these exams for students across the country and globe, will be in effect for all first-year students applying to Caltech for Fall 2021 through Fall 2025.
In July 2022, Caltech announced the first data received from an internal review of the impact of standardized testing on academic preparation of first-year students. This data informed the extension of the testing moratorium for a total of 5-years.
What does the testing moratorium actually mean?
Caltech will never consider your SAT or ACT examination scores in our admissions evaluation process. We mean it. Don't send them as the Admissions Committee will never see them. If your test scores appear on the Coalition, Common, or QuestBridge applications, they will be automatically suppressed when sent to Caltech.
Elimination of the requirement for SAT Subject Tests
In January 2020, Caltech eliminated the requirement for applicants to submit two SAT Subject Tests.
Continued Emphasis on Curriculum and Academic Preparedness
In lieu of test scores, the Admissions Committee focuses on the review and evaluation of a student's academic preparedness for Caltech. We strongly suggest you review the Apply webpage for an understanding of how to prepare for Caltech, what the Admissions Committee looks for, and the application requirements for first-year applicants and transfer students.
For more information about how these changes impact our holistic review process, read our philosophy on the admission process.