As a result of the coronavirus, schools across the US have chosen to not make the ACT a requirement when applying. This could be the start of US colleges creating their own test and not going by the standardized admissions tests.
Many student’s ACT scores don’t reflect their knowledge. Personally, I have spoken to many people who graduate at the top of their class but are unable to perform when it comes to taking standardized tests. Instead of only looking at their ACT score, schools will be looking at student’s GPA, extracurricular activities, and involvement in the community.
Ivy League Schools such as Cornell and Harvard have announced that students will not be penalized if they weren’t able to submit their ACT/SAT scores. Because of the current circumstances, they understand it may be difficult to take the test.
“We know that there are fewer opportunities to take the SAT or ACT given the cancellations to date. You will not be disadvantaged in any way if you do not submit subject tests,” Harvard College said in a statement.
Education reform groups have been protesting the ACT/SAT for years, saying that it gives wealthy students an advantage because they can afford expensive prep materials.
Colleges have been using the same system for years. This could be the change that helps more students get into college and get the education they need.
Feature photo courtesy of New York Times
