To Test or Not to Test: That Is the Question

Session Abstract: Due to the unprecedented challenges associated with the pandemic, many higher education institutions (HEIs) have removed standardized tests as part of their college admission application requirements. The roles of the standardized test scores for admission decisions have been reviewed over the years and even more so during the post‐COVID-19 era. With the pandemic now ended, HEIs are revisiting their decisions on the admission policies regarding standardized tests. Two private four-year institutions are currently offering test‐optional choices to their applicants out of the concerns for negative effects associated with COVID-19, as well as for accessibility to participate in standardized testing. To support data‐informed decisions, the institutions are examining the relationships of standardized test scores and student success indicators as part of their comprehensive review process. Information examined will be shared to engage attendees in a dialogue about the policies.

Keywords: student diversity, student graduation, student retention, student success, test-optional policies