Will Standardized Testing for College Admissions Ever Be Removed?

The debate over the role of standardized tests like the ACT and SAT in college admissions has recently gained significant traction. Proponents of eliminating these tests argue that they are inherently biased and penalize certain racial and socioeconomic groups, highlighting a perceived structural issue within the American education system. This article will delve into these arguments and consider both the implications and the inevitable patience required in such a monumental shift.

The Case Against Standardized Testing

Advocates for removing standardized testing often cite studies suggesting that such tests are racially biased and disproportionately penalize minority and lower-income students. For instance, Mayor De Blasio of New York City proposed eliminating merit-based admissions to highly selective public high schools, arguing that these schools predominantly serve white and Asian students. This stance, based on the idea that ACT and SAT scores are skewed against minority students, has sparked a broader conversation about the fairness of these admissions criteria.

Global Academic Competitiveness

The United States faces a significant challenge in maintaining its edge in educational achievement. Despite spending more on education than many other countries, American public schools are underperforming when compared to their international counterparts. As Educated for All, a global educational improvement initiative, points out, the U.S. is lagging behind in critical skills such as math and reading. This lag is not limited to one sector but extends to the entire U.S. education system, as evidenced by the fact that so many tech companies and research labs are seeking green cards for foreign nationals.

Why Standardized Tests Matter

Despite the push to remove standardized tests, they serve a crucial role in ensuring academic integrity and providing a fair evaluation of student capabilities. In an age of grade inflation and resume padding, standardized tests remain one of the few objective measures of student performance. For example, the Cincinnati Enquirer article on Xavier University's decision to eliminate SAT and ACT scores highlights how colleges may be admitting students who lack the necessary academic preparation for higher education.

The Future of College Admissions Requirements

Efforts to make college "accessible" for everyone, regardless of academic capability, are misguided. This approach may stem from the belief that "college is for everyone," but it overlooks the stark reality of academic disparity. Fast-forwarding to current trends, it is evident that too many academically marginal students are being funneled into college, leading to a supply-versus-demand crisis in higher education. According to recent data, 45% of high school graduates nationwide are enrolling in colleges, yet the available jobs can only accommodate a fraction of these students.

The Cons of Accessibility over Capability

The move towards eliminating admission requirements, such as the ACT, is driven by the desire for greater access to higher education. However, this comes at the expense of academic capability, as seen with Xavier University's decision. This college, rated "lightly competitive" with an acceptance rate of 70%, had an average freshman GPA of 3.52 and a 50th percentile SAT score of 1170. Critics argue that such a move, while increasing enrollment, may lead to a greater number of underprepared students.

Conclusion

While the idea of making college accessible to all is appealing, it must be balanced with the importance of academic capability. Patience is required as the education system navigates this complex issue. As educators and admissions officers, it is crucial to focus on providing the necessary support to those students who do not perform well on standardized tests but possess the potential to succeed. This balanced approach ensures that higher education remains a gateway to success, rather than a gateway to disappointment.