The past few weeks have been eventful for elite college admissions, with three Ivy League institutions – Dartmouth, Yale, and now Brown – reinstating standardized testing requirements. We suspected changes in testing requirements amongst some top schools, given the increasing research highlighting the value of test scores for admissions committees and predicting student success.

^{Brown University Admissions Changes}

• Testing requirement returns: Starting with the Class of 2029 (entering fall 2025), standardized tests (SAT or ACT) become mandatory again.
• Early Decision remains: Brown retains its Early Decision option, citing its appeal to students, alignment with peers, and contribution to a diverse and qualified class. However, they will continue to monitor its impact.
• Legacy admissions under review: No decision yet. Brown's Ad Hoc Committee on Admissions Policies is further studying legacy preferences, following the trend of other institutions like Amherst, MIT, and Johns Hopkins eliminating them.

^{Looking Ahead}

This is a dynamic time for college admissions and we are watching what other universities do in the coming weeks. It will be interesting to see if any of the Ivies come out and make a formal change to Legacy Admissions practices.

^{Need Guidance?}

If you're navigating the intricate world of college admissions, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Selective Admissions. We offer comprehensive college counseling services to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your future.

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