Why are Colleges Bringing Back Standardized Test Scores?

The move towards test-optional admissions policies didn’t happen overnight. It was years of advocacy and research questioning the validity and fairness of standardized testing. Critics argued that these tests favored students from higher socioeconomic backgrounds, who could afford extensive test preparation, and failed to accurately reflect the potential of students from diverse backgrounds. The reliance on a single test score was additionally seen as a narrow measure of a student’s capabilities. Many questioned how a test score could measure critical factors such as creativity, leadership, and resilience.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for change, forcing colleges to confront the practical challenges of standardized testing in unprecedented circumstances. With testing centers closed and students facing myriad challenges, the logistical hurdles of administering these exams became nearly impossible for many. As a result, over 1,600 colleges and universities in the United States adopted test-optional policies, according to the National Center for Fair & Open Testing. This period of adaptation offered institutions an opportunity to reassess the role of standardized tests in their admissions processes, observing the impacts of a more holistic review on the diversity and quality of their incoming classes.

The most prestigious universities in the nation are becoming trendsetters. Recently, institutions like Dartmouth, Brown, and Yale announced a return to standardized testing requirements; some reverting back to their old ways and some with new, approaches reflecting the lessons learned during the pandemic. 

Dartmouth and Brown reinstated the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application process, citing the need for a standardized measure of academic preparation and critical thinking skills. Yale, on the other hand, adopted a test-flexible policy, allowing applicants to submit scores from a variety of tests in place of the traditional SAT or ACT. This new approach acknowledges the value of standardized testing while also offering greater flexibility and consideration for the diverse experiences of applicants.

The new decisions to reintroduce standardized test scores were not made lightly. These institutions have emphasized their commitment to holistic admissions, where test scores are just one factor among many evaluated during the admissions process. The move reflects a belief in the utility of standardized tests as a tool for comparison and evaluation with a new focus on fairness and accessibility.

Reinstating standardized test requirements may sound frightening, but it doesn’t have to be if you stay informed and begin preparing early. Institutions like Dartmouth, Brown, and Yale are paving the way for these shifts, ultimately aiming to balance the benefits of standardized benchmarks with a holistic approach. This transition reflects a broader recognition of both the value and limitations of standardized tests, ensuring fairness and access in the admissions process. 

Prepory offers extensive resources and expert guidance to help you adapt to these shifts and stay ahead. If you have questions about exploring alternative admissions strategies or how to craft a compelling application in today’s competitive landscape, consider reaching out to one of our experts!

In the meantime, check out some more of our articles to help you navigate the competitive landscape of college admissions: How To Get Into Yale University: Complete Guide, How To Get Into Dartmouth College: Complete Guide, How To Get Into Brown University: Complete Guide, and College Admissions Trends in 2024.