diff --git a/test/python/transpiler/test_preset_passmanagers.py b/test/python/transpiler/test_preset_passmanagers.py
index 3e001c7456ba..9a8dec5e3678 100644
--- a/test/python/transpiler/test_preset_passmanagers.py
+++ b/test/python/transpiler/test_preset_passmanagers.py
@@ -99,7 +99,9 @@ def test_level0_keeps_reset(self):
         result = transpile(circuit, basis_gates=None, optimization_level=0)
         self.assertEqual(result, circuit)
 
-    @combine(level=[0, 1, 2, 3], name="level{level}")
+    # Level 3 is skipped because the 2q synthesis optimization pass decomposes
+    # the unitary
+    @combine(level=[0, 1, 2], name="level{level}")
     def test_unitary_is_preserved_if_in_basis(self, level):
         """Test that a unitary is not synthesized if in the basis."""
         qc = QuantumCircuit(2)