In a significant move, George Washington University recently joined the ranks of over 800 four-year institutions by abolishing the SAT as a requirement for freshman admissions. This decision stems from the acknowledgment that not all high-achieving students perform well on standardized tests. GWU admissions officials express concern that an overemphasis on test scores deters otherwise qualified candidates, particularly those from minority and low-income backgrounds, from applying. Both supporters and opponents of standardized testing are closely monitoring this development, as GWU is one of the largest and most prestigious schools to make such a change.
Even for those who argue that a uniform measure for evaluating students is necessary, it’s hard to overlook the fact that the standardized testing industry appears skewed in favor of affluent students. These students often have the means to invest in costly test preparation courses and private tutoring, with some rates soaring to $600 per hour. Additionally, while certain students may genuinely require accommodations like extended time, privileged families can exploit the system, seeking questionable diagnoses for learning disabilities to gain these advantages.
As early as 1999, education expert Mark Thompson, founder of Academic Success, criticized the SAT, stating that it lacks any meaningful measurement: “The SAT has been around for decades without ever truly assessing intelligence or predicting college performance. High test scores often benefit those already in power, who are reluctant to challenge the system.”
Research reported by NPR indicates that high school grades are much more reliable indicators of college success than standardized test scores. “Students with strong GPAs and average test results tend to excel in college more than those with high test scores but lower grades,” explains Laura Weston, former Dean of Admissions at Fairview College, which does not mandate standardized testing.
A high GPA reflects years of commitment, self-discipline, and intellectual curiosity—qualities that better represent a student’s capabilities than a single test taken on a Saturday morning. Furthermore, colleges should consider other attributes and experiences that contribute to a student’s potential. A candidate who actively engages in sports, the arts, or demonstrates strong leadership skills in class discussions may be just as likely to thrive in college as someone with stellar grades. While extracurricular activities and teacher recommendations have traditionally played a role in admissions, a deeper exploration of students’ character and passions could foster a more diverse and successful freshman class.
Rather than fixating on a narrow definition of “superstars,” colleges should seek out “regular” students who display sustained dedication to their interests. Identifying candidates with high emotional intelligence, which encompasses the ability to understand and manage emotions in themselves and others, could lead to better job performance and leadership skills in the future. The current admissions process tends to prioritize rigid metrics like standardized tests and grades, overlooking the complexity of human potential.
Eliminating standardized testing requirements represents a significant advancement in the college admissions process. We hope more institutions will take cue from George Washington University and embrace this change. Additionally, it’s essential for schools to recognize the shortcomings of standardized testing and appreciate students as dynamic individuals—each with unique strengths and experiences. As colleges aim to prepare students for the realities of life, a more representative student body can only enhance that goal.
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Summary
George Washington University has eliminated the SAT requirement for admissions, highlighting concerns about equity and the test’s ineffectiveness in predicting student success. Research indicates that high school grades are more reliable indicators of college performance than standardized test scores. A broader evaluation of student qualities beyond grades and test scores could lead to a more diverse and capable student body.