Lately, an increasing number of colleges across the United States are reintroducing standardized testing requirements, notably the SAT, as part of their application process. In fact, in 2022, only 4% of colleges required students to submit their SAT scores. Previously, including test scores as part of an application was the norm, but Covid-19 caused many universities to become test-optional and this trend has continued until now.
Critics have argued that tests like the SAT and ACT are not an accurate way of gauging a student’s academic abilities. Test anxiety or nervousness can easily impact scores negatively. Subjects like science and social studies are not tested in the SAT, which can be unfair to students who perform better in those areas. Standardized test scores differ greatly between economic backgrounds and tend to favor more privileged students. “I wish [the SAT] was optional because test scores don’t always define a person and shouldn’t be one of the most crucial factors of college admission,” said junior Maiya Russell.
Despite these criticisms, a growing number of colleges are breaking away from the test-blind admissions trend and reinstating SAT requirements. Institutions like Harvard University, Dartmouth, Yale University and Brown University have all announced that they will be reinstating standardized testing requirements for the 2025 fall applicants. Florida’s 11 public universities, including University of Florida and Florida State University, have always required either the SAT and ACT, even during the pandemic. The University of Miami continues to be test optional, even for 2025 applicants.
Proponents of the decision to return to test scores argue that the SAT can complement other aspects of a student’s application. This offers a more holistic view of each applicant, giving everyone a fair chance.
Colleges pressing forward with SAT requirements are taking steps to minimize any negative effects. Many institutions have adopted a holistic view of all incoming applications. Considering a range of factors (economic background, extracurricular activities and personal achievements) alongside standardized test scores allows admissions officers to see the real potential of their applicants.
MIT was one of the first to return to their test required applications. 2022-2023 applicants needed to submit either their SAT or ACT results. “I think that the optional SAT definitely gives more opportunity for those who aren’t good test takers or don’t have access to preparation materials such as tutors,” said junior Isabella Nascimiento. (Photo/Flickr)
