Question: Given that the Ivy League is test-optional for applicants this year, is the league still requiring test scores (SAT or ACT) for athletes as part of the Academic Index?

Answer: No, test scores are not required for athletes as part of the AI.

On the surface, this appears to make it easier for some students to be admitted who wouldn’t have been admitted if a test score were required. (The case for removing what is generally perceived as a socio-economic barrier.) There’s certainly some truth to that. However, as a result of removing the test scores, transcripts, classes, etc. are getting closer scrutiny, so the reverse could also be true. While meeting the AI minimum was never an automatic pass, if you hit the numbers, your chances were very, very good. You didn’t have much else to prove. Without the test score, it seems to be more subjective. Therefore, it’s possible that it won’t be any easier, and may even be harder, for athletes, especially low band, borderline ones, to be admitted.

Bonus Question:  If you have a test score, can your AI be calculated using the test score? In other words, can it be calculated the old way?

Answer:  Yes, and the higher of the two AI calculations (with and without the test score) will be used to make the determination.