Comment Section for A Top College Reinstates the SAT - The New York Times

The webpage is a New York Times article discussing Dartmouth College's decision to reinstate the SAT requirement for its admissions process. The college's president, Sian Beilock, requested an internal study on standardized tests after the COVID-19 pandemic led many colleges to drop these requirements. The study found that test scores were a better predictor of student performance at Dartmouth than high school grades, essays, or teacher recommendations. Additionally, the study revealed that the test-optional policy was negatively affecting lower-income applicants who often withheld their scores, thinking they were too low. In reality, these scores could have improved their chances of admission. The findings led to Dartmouth's decision to reinstate the SAT requirement, with the belief that it will help identify students who can excel despite challenging environments. The article also addresses criticisms of standardized testing, with Dartmouth officials stating that they do not find these criticisms persuasive.