The Case for Using Standardized Exams for College Application Processes
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, several U.S. universities have announced their decision to reintroduce SAT requirements for admissions. While specific university names have not been detailed in the provided search results, it is clear that the SAT and ACT tests, which are standard for admissions, are once again becoming a necessity.
During the pandemic, some universities had waived these scores, but now they are returning to requiring them. This move aims to provide a uniform and accredited measure to evaluate the academic capabilities of applicants.
For students who may struggle with the financial aspect of taking the SAT, the College Board offers fee waivers for qualified students. However, there is still work to be done to ensure economic accessibility and academic qualifications for all students taking the SAT.
Jeremiah Quinlan, the dean of undergraduate admissions and financial aid at Yale, has stated that standardized test scores predict future grades better than any other available data point. This sentiment is shared by many college admissions officers, who have found it difficult to ascertain academic capabilities if high schools have vast or even minor differences in evaluating students without a corresponding standard to uniformly assess students.
The SAT requires students to practice fundamental concepts in math and English, but in a manner that commands the deductive abilities of a student. The questions posed are not necessarily straightforward, challenging students to understand and solve problems that go beyond standard academic standards.
Yale University and Dartmouth College are among the universities that have reinstated SAT score requirements for applications. As the new academic year approaches, it remains to be seen how other universities will follow suit.
In a separate development, Ashwin Prabaharan, the Chief Opinions Editor and Staff Writer at an unspecified campus, has written an op-ed titled "Since the dawn of the Republic, a series of once-in-a-generation...". It is important to note that this op-ed was written in a personal capacity and does not reflect an official endorsement from the Student Government Association or any other campus entity.
Bryce Maloney, the Opinions Editor for the piece, has overseen its publication. Ashwin Prabaharan is also running for Co-President of SGA with Luke Cambra. More information about their campaign will be announced in due course.
