Why Are Colleges Really Going Test-Optional?

September 4, 2015
  • Industry News

It's an increasingly popular move in higher education. Hundreds of schools no longer require student applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.

In July, George Washington University became the latest school to throw its considerable weight behind the test-optional movement. Its explanation:

"The test-optional policy should strengthen and diversify an already outstanding applicant pool and will broaden access for those high-achieving students who have historically been underrepresented at selective colleges and universities, including students of color, first-generation students and students from low-income households," said Laurie Koehler, who leads enrollment efforts at George Washington.

In a word: diversity.

Read more at NPR: http://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2015/09/03/436584244/why-are-colleges-really-going-test-optional