Yale's Test-Flexible Policy Encourages Applicants to Submit ACT®/SAT® Scores
In early February, we shared Dartmouth College’s major announcement to reinstate its standardized testing requirements. In that post, we asked the big question: Will other schools follow suit? And we said: Quite possible, yes.
We feel very strongly that many of the colleges and universities that switched their testing policies to accommodate applicants during the global pandemic did so as a temporary solution. This is why it’s really not all too surprising that, four years later, those schools are reevaluating those testing policies.
Yale Changes from Test-Optional to Test-Flexible
On the heels of Dartmouth’s news, Yale University announced that it changed its testing policy from test-optional, implemented four years ago due to the pandemic, to test-flexible. According to Yale’s testing policy announcement, the university used the last four years to collect data on applicant pools before reevaluating its test-optional policy.
It seems that the most recent restoration of testing mandates from heavy hitters MIT, Dartmouth College, Georgetown University, and others seems to have nudged Yale to finally revisit that testing policy.
What is Yale’s Primary Goal in Choosing a Test-Flexible Policy?
The process of choosing students from a vast pool of highly qualified candidates necessitates an open-minded stance and modesty in predicting future success. Yale University’s primary goal in determining an appropriate testing policy was to further its mission of bringing together a diverse group of high-performing students who can enrich the learning environment. Yale believes that, after careful consideration and deliberation, mandating a test-flexible policy aligns with that goal.
What Does Yale Mean by “Test Flexible?”
After four years of study and contemplation under the test-optional policy, Yale found that encouraging students to apply without providing any test scores inadvertently put students from low-income families, those who are the first in their families to attend college, and students from rural areas at a disadvantage—especially since the most recent four applicant pools have been the largest ever, with record numbers of applications from first-generation college students, students from lower-income neighborhoods, and underrepresented minority groups.
Therefore, Yale will once again mandate that students include standardized test scores with their applications. However, Yale will now permit applicants to submit test scores from Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) exams as an alternative to ACT® or SAT® scores.
Yale has found that when applicants, even those with scores below Yale’s average, submit a test score with their application, it instills more confidence in the admissions committee about the student’s potential to succeed academically at Yale. Yale’s studies have consistently found that among all elements of an application, test scores are the most reliable predictor of a student’s college readiness and future academic success. This remains true even when accounting for factors like family income and other demographics, and it applies to subject-specific exams like AP and IB, as well as the ACT® and SAT®.
The new test-flexible policy reflects Yale’s whole-person method of evaluating applicants. Prospective students will continue to be assessed based on their grades, GPAs, academic and extracurricular achievements, and high school environment in addition to the test scores they submit.
Encouraging Our Clients to Aim High
As ACT® and SAT® tutors, we recognize the importance of setting ambitious test score goals with our clients. We want them to do their level best to showcase their academic strengths. Here are some practical and applicable strategies to help your students put their best foot forward when submitting ACT® or SAT® scores to their choice colleges:
Understand the Landscape: Remind students that colleges and universities have been adapting their testing policies, particularly in the last four years. What may have been a temporary solution during the pandemic is now subject to reevaluation. Encourage them to stay informed about any policy changes at their target institutions.
Aim High: Encourage students to set high standards for scores that reflect their true academic potential. While safety nets like test-optional policies exist, submitting strong ACT® and SAT® scores can enhance their application. Remind them that colleges appreciate applicants who challenge themselves and demonstrate academic excellence.
Strategize: Work with your students to create a personalized study plan. We cannot emphasize the importance of individualized test prep enough! Having a tailored test-prep plan for each clients helps better Identify students’ strengths and weaknesses, and focus on areas where improvement is possible. Regular practice tests, targeted review, and time management skills are essential components of effective test preparation.
Mindset and Confidence: Foster a growth mindset. Remind students that setbacks are growth opportunities. Encourage them to approach test day with confidence, knowing they’ve put in the effort to succeed.
The journey toward college admission is multifaceted. By encouraging our clients to aim high and stay informed of and prepared for testing policy changes, our students can present a compelling case for admission to their dream colleges. Let’s empower them to reach their full potential!
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