University of California Plans to Stop Using SAT and ACT Scores in Admissions

By on May 22, 2020

PEMBROKE PINES, FL – MARCH 06: Suzane Nazir uses a Princeton Review SAT Preparation book to study for the test on March 6, 2014 in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Yesterday, the College Board announced the second redesign of the SAT this century, it is scheduled to take effect in early 2016. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Due to COVID-19, the UC system made ACT and SAT testing optional for incoming students. After many allegations which state that these tests put minorities and low income students at a disadvantage, the UC governing body met to discuss and vote.

On Thursday, the regents voted for ACT and SAT testing to be eliminated from the admissions process. Now, what does this mean?

The test scores will not be required for 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years. However, beginning in 2023 UC’s will use the test for other things such as scholarships and course placement. The UC system plans to create their own form of standardized testing to replace the ACT and SAT to help with admissions. If they are unable to replace it, they will overthrow standardized testing as a whole.

Since the UC system is fairly influential, they foresee many other schools will follow in making these changes.