Updated: August 10, 2020
In a significant move, George Washington University recently joined over 800 other four-year institutions in dropping the SAT requirement for freshman admissions. The reasoning? Not every high-achieving student excels in standardized testing, and GWU admissions officials worry that a focus on test scores may deter talented candidates, particularly those from minority and low-income backgrounds, from applying. This decision has attracted the attention of both supporters and detractors of standardized testing, as it marks one of the largest and most prestigious schools to make this change.
Even if you believe we need a common benchmark to assess students, it’s hard to ignore that the standardized testing industry often feels like a rigged game that disproportionately benefits affluent students who can afford pricey test preparation services and private tutors (some of whom charge as much as $600 an hour). While there are certainly students who genuinely need additional time due to legitimate learning differences, it’s also possible for wealthier families to exploit this by seeking questionable diagnoses to secure extra time for the SAT.
As far back as 1999, education expert Lisa Anderson, founder of the Academic Review, expressed strong skepticism about the SAT’s validity, stating, “The SAT is a scam. It’s been around for decades and fails to measure what it claims. Everyone who scores well becomes so pleased with their results that they hesitate to criticize the system that favors them.” This rolling scam continues to thrive, even as evidence mounts that the test does not truly measure intelligence, predict college success, or reflect what students learned in high school.
Research conducted by NPR indicates that high school grades are a far more accurate predictor of college performance than standardized test scores. William Hiss, former Dean of Admissions at a test-optional institution, noted, “Students with stellar grades but modest test scores often outperform their peers with higher test scores but lower grades.” A strong GPA reflects years of dedication, intellectual curiosity, and hard work—qualities that better capture a student’s potential than a single test taken under stressful conditions on a Saturday morning.
Moreover, colleges should consider a range of traits and experiences when evaluating applicants. A student who engages actively in sports or the arts, or who is recognized for their leadership or curiosity in class discussions, may bring just as much promise to college life as someone with a perfect GPA. While extracurricular activities and teacher recommendations have traditionally played a role in admissions, a more holistic approach that emphasizes personality and character could lead to a more diverse and capable freshman class.
Rather than solely seeking out “superstars,” why not give greater weight to “regular” students who demonstrate sustained involvement in their passions? Institutions should also actively seek candidates with high emotional intelligence, which is linked to effective leadership and job performance. The current admissions system relies heavily on rigid measures of intelligence, while a more nuanced understanding of students as complex individuals could yield better outcomes.
Eliminating standardized testing as a requirement is a crucial step forward. Let’s hope that more institutions follow George Washington University’s lead, using this opportunity to truly understand students as unique beings with diverse experiences. After all, college should prepare students to thrive in the real world, and a student body that reflects the diversity of society is beneficial for everyone.
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In summary, the move away from SAT requirements signals a shift in how educational institutions view student potential. By focusing on a broader range of attributes and reducing reliance on standardized tests, colleges can create more inclusive and effective admissions processes.