Nick's position
The UC is test-blind, so should my California child still take the SAT or ACT?
“The UC will not look at an SAT or ACT score today, but I still tell California families to test, because other colleges do.”
Nick Standlea
Right now the University of California and Cal State do not consider an SAT or ACT score, even if you send one. If your child only applies to California publics, that is the rule.
But most families do not apply only to California publics. Private colleges and out-of-state universities read scores, and merit scholarships are tied to them. And I expect the UC to look at scores again. The faculty review is already under way, and we should know more in the spring.
So my advice is plain. Do not let a test-blind rule at home decide your child's whole list. Prepare, test, and keep every door open.
The facts behind it
- Both the University of California and California State University are test-blind: scores are not considered in admission decisions even if submitted.
- The UC faculty committee's report on testing goes to the Academic Council February 12, 2027, with recommendations to the Regents no later than June 2027.
- Nationally, 115 colleges require a score.
Could the UC bring the SAT or ACT back for my child's class?
It could, the review is public, and I would rather your child have a score in hand than wish for one later.