The University of Alabama System has decided to bring back standardized testing for admissions, citing a need to uphold academic standards. The change will impact applicants starting in August 2026. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the system required SAT or ACT scores but paused the requirement in 2020.
In a statement, Tonjanita Johnson, the senior vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, mentioned that standardized tests provide key insights into students’ academic success. “They help ensure our students are supported and ready to thrive in college,” she said during a Board of Trustees meeting.
Historically, UA used standardized test scores to guide student placements in their first-year courses. The university believes that reinstating this requirement will better equip students for advancement and graduation, reinforcing their approach to academic support.
Standardized tests have become a topic of debate in recent years. After the pandemic, many colleges dropped these requirements, but some, like Harvard and the University of Miami, have since decided to reinstate them. This trend raises questions about the balance between equity and merit in college admissions.
Critics of test-optional policies argue that they can prioritize diversity over academic achievement. Rob Jenkins, a professor at Georgia State University, stated that research shows a clear link between standardized test performance and academic success. He pointed out that some argue the tests are biased. However, he believes this neglects other factors like family circumstances and cultural differences that can affect student performance.
Interestingly, a survey conducted by the National Association for College Admission Counseling showed that around 60% of college admissions officers find standardized tests to be a beneficial factor in making their decisions. This statistic highlights a significant perspective in the ongoing discussion about the role of standardized testing in education.
The University of Alabama System, with its campuses in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Huntsville, seems to be aligning itself with a trend in higher education that seeks to balance rigorous academic standards with fair admissions practices. As universities navigate these changes, it’s clear the debate about standardized testing will continue.
