Universal SAT / ACT testing “finds” talented low-income college candidates
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Recently, some name-brand colleges have announced that they would no longer require SAT or ACT test results.
The rationale: the tests may be culturally biased, dampening diversity.
Hmmm.
Taking another tack, the Brooking Institution recently published a study suggesting that diversity can be enhanced with more, not less, SAT/ACT testing.
Entrance exams (ACT or SAT ) are required for admission to virtually all selective colleges in the US.
For low-income students, that’s a hurdle to overcome.
Students have to register and pay for these tests, and then travel to a testing center on a weekend to take them.
This is straightforward, if you have internet access, a computer, a credit card, and a car.
If you are missing any of these resources, it’s a lot more challenging.
The nearest testing center may be in a suburb that is unreachable by public transportation early on a Saturday morning.
To overcome these hurdles, several states are now giving the ACT or SAT exams in school, for free, on a school day during school hours.
The benefits are two-fold …
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First, more highly-qualified low-income students get a shot at selective colleges.
Second, and perhaps more important, low-income students who are talented “at the margin” get get identified by school administrators who can provide them with extra attention and support … elevating their college consideration and helping them to navigate the application process.
The results can be dramatic.
In one Michigan-based study, the population of identified college-qualified low-income students increased by 50% once universal entrance testing was implemented.
These “hidden gems” previously just fell by the wayside.
Now, they stand a chance ….
Bottom line: “Universal and free testing can help to level the playing field, uncovering disadvantaged students who can benefit from college.”
I say: Go for it.
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