Do Standardized Tests Still Have A Spot at the Table?

The College Board is constantly adapting and revamping its structure based on the changes in the acceptance requirements for universities across the country. In the past few years, the idea of standardized testing, such as SATs and ACTs, being optional for universities has become more realistic. While this is largely attributed to the restrictions caused by Covid-19, many universities had already begun to question the significance of test scores on an application.

The first quarantine caused people to panic about going out, especially for non-urgent or medical manners, like sitting for an SAT. This led universities to make test scores optional, and with this change in the acceptance process, many found that the old and conventional way of analyzing students is not so beneficial to the admission process.

Ms. Enis, the Hebrew Academy College Guidance Counselor shared that “many colleges are going test-optional for 2-3 years but nothing is permanent. Florida public universities are actually the only ones who mandated exam scores.” Furthermore, senior Shiraz Bachar does not believe SAT scores should determine how smart someone is and by keeping it test-optional is an opportunity to show other important aspects of students: “I think the idea of universities not requiring SAT scores is very crucial and very good actually. This really gives kids opportunities to show more than just their test results. I don't think SATs really show how smart you are or define you as a person and that is why I really like the fact that it's test-optional. I don’t think defining someone by their test scores really says anything.”

We have no way of knowing what the future of college entrance exams holds. However, we will soon get to see the full results of test-free admissions. For years people have been advocating for the admissions process to change into a test-free one; maybe these past years have been the perfect demonstration on whether it’s better or worse to use these tests as an acceptance tool for future generations.

By: Ariela Jaimovich (10th)