PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — Brown University has extended its temporary test-optional undergraduate admission policy for the 2023-24 admission cycle. The submission of SAT or ACT scores will be optional for all first-year, transfer and Resumed Undergraduate Education applicants.

The University has welcomed two classes of incoming students under a test-optional policy that took effect in June 2020 after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it was extended for both 2021-22 and 2022-23.

“The reality is that both uncertainty in the admissions landscape and factors ranging from global conflict to pandemic-driven economic conditions in the U.S. continue to pose challenges for prospective Brown students and families across the globe,” said Logan Powell, associate provost for enrollment and dean of admission.

Powell said the Office of College Admission will continue to review SAT or ACT scores submitted by applicants who take the tests, but those who do not submit scores will face no disadvantage in the admission process. While tests have traditionally been one requirement for undergraduate admission, Brown considers each application holistically and individually, making admission decisions on a case-by-case basis to build a class that is both academically talented and reflective of the diverse range of perspectives and experiences essential for a world-class learning and research community.

“Standardized testing is informative and often helpful to our understanding of a student’s academic preparation, but has always been one among many components that we consider in our holistic admission process,” the Office of College Admission policy statement reads. The full statement and a set of FAQs are included on the office’s website.

The University will reevaluate the temporary policy before the 2024-25 admission cycle begins.