Standardized testing for college admissions underwent significant changes during the pandemic, with many institutions making it optional for first-year students in fall 2021. While the majority of four-year degree-granting institutions maintained this policy, notable exceptions like Yale, Dartmouth, and Brown are now reintroducing standardized testing requirements. The question arises: is this shift a precursor to broader changes in the future?
Yale University, for instance, recently announced that students applying for fall 2025 admission must submit standardized test scores, choosing from options like the SAT, ACT, or scores from Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate tests. This decision followed a period of test-optional admissions, which Yale found disadvantaged low-income students who did not submit test scores.
In contrast, the University of Michigan, a leading public university, declared a permanent test-optional policy starting in 2025. This divergent approach sets institutions like Yale, Brown, and Dartmouth apart as they reinstate testing requirements, emphasizing the potential benefits for low-income students. However, the broader landscape still sees a significant number of universities maintaining optional testing, citing similar reasons for their stance.
The move towards reinstating standardized testing at certain highly selective colleges raises questions about its impact on student diversity and academic performance. While some argue for the predictive value of test scores in admissions, others point to the biases and inequalities associated with standardized tests. The debate extends to the effectiveness of alternative assessment methods, such as college essays, in promoting equity in admissions processes.
As the higher education sector navigates these changes, the focus remains on ensuring equitable access for students from diverse backgrounds. While some institutions reevaluate their testing policies, the overarching goal is to create inclusive and fair admissions processes that prioritize academic excellence and diversity.