University of California system removes SAT and ACT testing as admissions requirement
PHOTO: The University of California system has decided to eliminate the SAT and ACT from the admissions process from 2023 to 2024.
By Chloe Chedin,
BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–
The University of California’s Board of Regents voted to suspend the SAT and ACT from admissions processes through 2024 and completely eliminate them by 2025 if a better standardized test is not developed by the UC system.
The policy, proposed by UC President Janet Napolitano and passed on Thursday, will make standardized test scores optional from 2021 and 2022. Between 2023 and 2024, the scores will be eliminated from the admissions process. By 2025, the SAT and ACT will be dropped indefinitely if the new assessment created by a UC task force is not approved.
The SAT and ACT are already optional for the high school class of 2021 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. “I think it’s good that UC is trying to take some of the stress off of students right now especially since it’s difficult to hold SAT/ACT tests currently,” junior Olivia Price said.
The standardized tests have been a subject of debate for a long time because the exams discriminate against lower classes who aren’t able to afford expensive tutoring.
“Certain students [won’t] necessarily have an advantage after this decision either, since it’ll be a UC system-wide change,” senior Emily Jao said.
There is some skepticism surrounding this decision. Since the standardized tests aren’t part of the process anymore, admissions could start heavily relying on other factors.
“I don’t think it’s a bad idea, but I’m not sure if it’s the best idea either. It might cause admissions decisions to weigh more heavily on things such as extracurriculars, which might cause more stress for students who may not have the time to participate in such activities,” Jao said.
However, the suspension of the tests may relieve stress for current and future juniors who are considering going to a UC.
“I think it’s beneficial because the SAT [and ACT are] stressful to both take and study for, so not all schools requiring it is nice,” Price said.
