Table of Contents<\/h2>\n\n- 1. The Return of Testing Requirements<\/a><\/li>\n
- 2. Data-Driven Evidence from North Carolina<\/a><\/li>\n
- 3. The Role of Merit Aid in College Admissions<\/a><\/li>\n
- 4. Ongoing Research into Testing and Admissions<\/a><\/li>\n
- 5. Grade Inflation and the Importance of Standardized Tests<\/a><\/li>\n
- 6. Changes to the ACT: What You Need to Know<\/a>\n
\n- Online Testing Format Expansion<\/a><\/li>\n
- Optional Science Section<\/a><\/li>\n
- More Time Per Question<\/a><\/li>\n
- Faster Score Reporting<\/a><\/li>\n
- Accommodations for Diverse Learners<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
- Key Takeaways for Test Prep Professionals<\/a><\/li>\n
- About the Authors<\/a><\/li>\n
- References<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n
1. The Return of Testing Requirements<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nOne of the most notable shifts this year is the return of standardized testing requirements at several high-profile institutions. Stanford University made headlines in June 2024 when it announced a return to test-required admissions after a pandemic-era pause. According to Stanford\u2019s official statement, the decision was driven by a belief that standardized tests offer a valuable metric to assess applicants’ academic potential, particularly in the context of high school grade inflation and inconsistencies in grading practices across schools.[1]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\nFollowing Stanford’s lead, Rice University also announced updates to its admissions processes, moving from a test-optional to a test-recommendation policy. Rice\u2019s decision emphasizes the importance of standardized testing in providing a more equitable comparison across different educational backgrounds.[2]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n2. Data-Driven Evidence from North Carolina<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nIn North Carolina, recent data has sparked renewed debate over the value of test scores in college admissions. A June 2024 report from North Carolina State University and UNC-Chapel Hill demonstrated that students who submitted standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) performed better academically than those who did not, leading to calls for test-optional policies to be re-examined. For test prep professionals, this reinforces the argument that a strong ACT or SAT score remains a critical factor in helping students gain admission to top institutions and succeed once enrolled.[3]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n3. The Role of Merit Aid in College Admissions<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nAnother key trend in 2024 is the growing role of test scores in securing merit-based financial aid. A recent article by Jeffrey Selingo published in New York Magazine highlighted the practice of \u201cundermatching,\u201d where students apply to colleges where their SAT or ACT scores are significantly higher than the institution’s median. By doing so, these students can often secure generous merit scholarships, reducing the overall cost of attending college. For test prep professionals, this trend underscores the value of test preparation not only in college admissions but also in helping families lower the financial burden of higher education.[4]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n4. Ongoing Research into Testing and Admissions<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nSeveral research studies released in the past year have furthered our understanding of the role standardized testing plays in college admissions. A 2024 paper by UC Santa Cruz professor Donald Wittman found that SAT scores were more predictive of student success at the University of California than high school grades. Wittman\u2019s research also showed that SAT scores played an especially important role for socioeconomically disadvantaged students, suggesting that standardized testing can help level the playing field for students who may face systemic barriers in the college admissions process.[5]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\nSimilarly, a working group at Dartmouth College concluded in January 2024 that standardized test scores are a critical tool for identifying high-achieving students from less advantaged backgrounds. Without the objective data provided by SAT and ACT scores, the group found that it was more difficult to assess students from schools with fewer resources, making test scores an essential component of a holistic admissions process.[6]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n5. Grade Inflation and the Importance of Standardized Tests<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nOne of the driving factors behind the renewed emphasis on standardized testing is the issue of grade inflation, which continues to grow across U.S. high schools. A National Center for Education Statistics report revealed that the percentage of high school students graduating with an “A” average has increased from 40% in 2010 to 55% in 2021. This rise in high grades makes it more difficult for colleges to distinguish top students from the broader pool, leading many institutions to emphasize SAT and ACT scores more.<\/p>\n
For test prep professionals, this trend highlights the importance of helping students achieve high test scores, as grades alone may no longer be a reliable indicator of academic potential. Standardized tests provide a consistent metric that colleges can use to differentiate students, particularly as grade inflation erodes GPAs’ value.<\/p>\n
6. Changes to the ACT: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nIn addition to shifts in college admissions policies, 2024 has announced significant changes to the ACT. According to Marc Gray of our own National Test Prep Association<\/em>, these changes reflect a growing effort to modernize the test while maintaining its role as a key tool for college admissions.[7]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n![\"image](\"https:\/\/nationaltestprep.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/10-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Below are the most critical updates that test prep professionals should be aware of. Read the NTPA’s “Major Changes Coming to the ACT”<\/a> article for a more detailed summary of the ACT changes.<\/p>\nOnline Testing Format Expansion<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nThe ACT is expanding its online testing options, allowing students to take the test on computers at official testing centers. While this option has been available internationally for a few years, it\u2019s becoming more widespread in the U.S., offering students more flexibility and convenience. For many students, especially those accustomed to digital learning environments, the online format may provide a more comfortable testing experience. It should be noted that a paper and pencil version of the ACT will remain available to all students, which will continue to distinguish the ACT from the SAT.<\/p>\n
Optional Science Section<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nThe fourth section of the ACT will become optional. This section tests students\u2019 knowledge of and proficiency in comprehending scientific concepts. Furthermore, there will be an increased number of questions that require students to utilize scientific knowledge not included in the passage.<\/p>\n
More Time Per Question<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nACT takers will be given more time per question in the Reading, English, and Math sections.<\/p>\n
Faster Score Reporting<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nStudents who take the ACT online can expect to receive their results within days, rather than the several weeks typically required for paper tests. This faster turnaround could prove crucial for students applying to colleges with rolling admissions or for those seeking to make last-minute decisions about where to apply.<\/p>\n
Accommodations for Diverse Learners<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\nThe ACT is also updating its accommodation policies to better support students with disabilities. These changes include more flexible timing options and increased access to resources such as assistive technology. For students who require accommodations, these updates make the ACT a more inclusive and accessible test.<\/p>\n
The ACT changes offer opportunities and challenges for test prep professionals. It will be essential to adjust tutoring strategies to help students achieve the best possible results in individual sections. For those working in test prep, staying updated with these changes will be crucial for helping students navigate this new landscape effectively.<\/p>\n
Key Takeaways for Test Prep Professionals<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n\n- Increased demand for test prep<\/strong>: As more institutions revert to test-required or test-recommended policies, the demand for SAT and ACT preparation is expected to rise.<\/li>\n
- Data supports the value of test scores<\/strong>: Recent research shows that standardized test scores are a strong predictor of college success and can help level the playing field for disadvantaged students.<\/li>\n
- Grade inflation underscores the importance of testing<\/strong>: As high school grades become less reliable due to inflation, SAT and ACT scores provide colleges with a more consistent metric to assess applicants.<\/li>\n
- Test scores and merit aid<\/strong>: High test scores can play a crucial role in securing merit-based financial aid, particularly for students who “undermatch.”<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
As the test prep landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about these trends will be key to helping students navigate the increasingly competitive college admissions process.<\/p>\n
For updates, join our newsletter and keep checking the NTPA Blog.<\/p>\n
About the Authors<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/nationaltestprep.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Heather-Photo-FB-Heather-Krey-150x150.jpg\")
Heather Krey<\/strong> has over two decades of experience in SAT and ACT preparation. She\u2019s also World Class Tutoring<\/a>\u2019s leading test prep curriculum architect. Heather earned her bachelor\u2019s degrees in engineering and psychology from Lehigh University and her M.Ed. degrees in Mathematics and Teaching from DeSales University and Kutztown University, respectively. She is certified in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and English and has taught roles at various Pennsylvania high schools. Heather has also worked as an adjunct professor at Cedar Crest College. Heather has been an NTPA member since its inception and is an active member of its blog committee.<\/p>\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/nationaltestprep.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/blobaum-150x150.jpg\")
David Blobaum<\/strong> co-founded and leads Summit Prep<\/a>, a tutoring company with two centers in New Jersey that specializes in preparing students for the SAT and ACT. He graduated from the University of Chicago with honors from the college, and in his major, he received his Executive MBA from Quantic School of Business and Technology. Since then, he has devoted himself to helping students succeed through education. He serves as the NTPA\u2019s Director of Outreach to help highlight how academic standards can help students, schools, and society.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
![\"Head](\"https:\/\/nationaltestprep.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/MG-Blog-Bio-headshot-How-to-Sell-Aptitude-Testing-Part-1-150x150.jpeg\")
Marc Gray<\/strong>, owner of Odyssey College Prep<\/a> and CEO of Powerful Prep<\/a>, streamlines college admissions with advanced aptitude testing<\/a>. An active blogger, he writes on college admissions, test prep, and aptitude testing. As Chair of the NTPA\u2019s Blog Committee, he updates members on the latest in test prep, college admissions, aptitude testing, and community news.<\/p>\n<\/h2>\nReferences<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n[1]<\/sup><\/a> \u201cStanford to resume standardized test requirement for admissions.\u201d Stanford Report<\/em>, 7 June 2024, https:\/\/news.stanford.edu\/stories\/2024\/06\/stanford-to-resume-standardized-test-requirement. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n[2]<\/sup><\/a> \u201cRice announces updates to application processes | Rice News | News and Media Relations | Rice University.\u201d Rice News<\/em>, 17 June 2024, https:\/\/news.rice.edu\/news\/2024\/rice-announces-updates-application-processes. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n[3]<\/sup><\/a> Robinson, Jenna A. \u201c\u201cSmoking-Gun\u201d Data on North Carolina ACT Scores \u2014 The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal.\u201d The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal<\/em>, 6 June 2024, https:\/\/www.jamesgmartin.center\/2024\/06\/smoking-gun-data-on-north-carolina-act-scores\/. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n[4]<\/sup><\/a> Selingo, Jeffrey. \u201cThe New Trick Families Are Using to Lower College Tuition Bills.\u201d New York Magazine<\/em>, 25 June 2024, https:\/\/nymag.com\/intelligencer\/article\/the-new-trick-families-are-using-to-lower-college-tuition.html. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n[5]<\/sup><\/a> Wittman, Donald. (2024). The University of California Was Wrong to Abolish the SAT: Admissions When Affirmative Action Was Banned. Educational Measurement: Issues and Practice<\/em>, 43, 10.1111\/emip.12598.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Online Testing Format Expansion<\/a><\/li>\n
- Optional Science Section<\/a><\/li>\n
- More Time Per Question<\/a><\/li>\n
- Faster Score Reporting<\/a><\/li>\n
- Accommodations for Diverse Learners<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
- Key Takeaways for Test Prep Professionals<\/a><\/li>\n
- About the Authors<\/a><\/li>\n
- References<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n
1. The Return of Testing Requirements<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
One of the most notable shifts this year is the return of standardized testing requirements at several high-profile institutions. Stanford University made headlines in June 2024 when it announced a return to test-required admissions after a pandemic-era pause. According to Stanford\u2019s official statement, the decision was driven by a belief that standardized tests offer a valuable metric to assess applicants’ academic potential, particularly in the context of high school grade inflation and inconsistencies in grading practices across schools.[1]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
Following Stanford’s lead, Rice University also announced updates to its admissions processes, moving from a test-optional to a test-recommendation policy. Rice\u2019s decision emphasizes the importance of standardized testing in providing a more equitable comparison across different educational backgrounds.[2]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
2. Data-Driven Evidence from North Carolina<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
In North Carolina, recent data has sparked renewed debate over the value of test scores in college admissions. A June 2024 report from North Carolina State University and UNC-Chapel Hill demonstrated that students who submitted standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) performed better academically than those who did not, leading to calls for test-optional policies to be re-examined. For test prep professionals, this reinforces the argument that a strong ACT or SAT score remains a critical factor in helping students gain admission to top institutions and succeed once enrolled.[3]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
3. The Role of Merit Aid in College Admissions<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
Another key trend in 2024 is the growing role of test scores in securing merit-based financial aid. A recent article by Jeffrey Selingo published in New York Magazine highlighted the practice of \u201cundermatching,\u201d where students apply to colleges where their SAT or ACT scores are significantly higher than the institution’s median. By doing so, these students can often secure generous merit scholarships, reducing the overall cost of attending college. For test prep professionals, this trend underscores the value of test preparation not only in college admissions but also in helping families lower the financial burden of higher education.[4]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
4. Ongoing Research into Testing and Admissions<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
Several research studies released in the past year have furthered our understanding of the role standardized testing plays in college admissions. A 2024 paper by UC Santa Cruz professor Donald Wittman found that SAT scores were more predictive of student success at the University of California than high school grades. Wittman\u2019s research also showed that SAT scores played an especially important role for socioeconomically disadvantaged students, suggesting that standardized testing can help level the playing field for students who may face systemic barriers in the college admissions process.[5]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
Similarly, a working group at Dartmouth College concluded in January 2024 that standardized test scores are a critical tool for identifying high-achieving students from less advantaged backgrounds. Without the objective data provided by SAT and ACT scores, the group found that it was more difficult to assess students from schools with fewer resources, making test scores an essential component of a holistic admissions process.[6]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
5. Grade Inflation and the Importance of Standardized Tests<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
One of the driving factors behind the renewed emphasis on standardized testing is the issue of grade inflation, which continues to grow across U.S. high schools. A National Center for Education Statistics report revealed that the percentage of high school students graduating with an “A” average has increased from 40% in 2010 to 55% in 2021. This rise in high grades makes it more difficult for colleges to distinguish top students from the broader pool, leading many institutions to emphasize SAT and ACT scores more.<\/p>\n
For test prep professionals, this trend highlights the importance of helping students achieve high test scores, as grades alone may no longer be a reliable indicator of academic potential. Standardized tests provide a consistent metric that colleges can use to differentiate students, particularly as grade inflation erodes GPAs’ value.<\/p>\n
6. Changes to the ACT: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
In addition to shifts in college admissions policies, 2024 has announced significant changes to the ACT. According to Marc Gray of our own National Test Prep Association<\/em>, these changes reflect a growing effort to modernize the test while maintaining its role as a key tool for college admissions.[7]<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n
<\/p>\nBelow are the most critical updates that test prep professionals should be aware of. Read the NTPA’s “Major Changes Coming to the ACT”<\/a> article for a more detailed summary of the ACT changes.<\/p>\n
Online Testing Format Expansion<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
The ACT is expanding its online testing options, allowing students to take the test on computers at official testing centers. While this option has been available internationally for a few years, it\u2019s becoming more widespread in the U.S., offering students more flexibility and convenience. For many students, especially those accustomed to digital learning environments, the online format may provide a more comfortable testing experience. It should be noted that a paper and pencil version of the ACT will remain available to all students, which will continue to distinguish the ACT from the SAT.<\/p>\n
Optional Science Section<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
The fourth section of the ACT will become optional. This section tests students\u2019 knowledge of and proficiency in comprehending scientific concepts. Furthermore, there will be an increased number of questions that require students to utilize scientific knowledge not included in the passage.<\/p>\n
More Time Per Question<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
ACT takers will be given more time per question in the Reading, English, and Math sections.<\/p>\n
Faster Score Reporting<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
Students who take the ACT online can expect to receive their results within days, rather than the several weeks typically required for paper tests. This faster turnaround could prove crucial for students applying to colleges with rolling admissions or for those seeking to make last-minute decisions about where to apply.<\/p>\n
Accommodations for Diverse Learners<\/h3>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
The ACT is also updating its accommodation policies to better support students with disabilities. These changes include more flexible timing options and increased access to resources such as assistive technology. For students who require accommodations, these updates make the ACT a more inclusive and accessible test.<\/p>\n
The ACT changes offer opportunities and challenges for test prep professionals. It will be essential to adjust tutoring strategies to help students achieve the best possible results in individual sections. For those working in test prep, staying updated with these changes will be crucial for helping students navigate this new landscape effectively.<\/p>\n
Key Takeaways for Test Prep Professionals<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
- \n
- Increased demand for test prep<\/strong>: As more institutions revert to test-required or test-recommended policies, the demand for SAT and ACT preparation is expected to rise.<\/li>\n
- Data supports the value of test scores<\/strong>: Recent research shows that standardized test scores are a strong predictor of college success and can help level the playing field for disadvantaged students.<\/li>\n
- Grade inflation underscores the importance of testing<\/strong>: As high school grades become less reliable due to inflation, SAT and ACT scores provide colleges with a more consistent metric to assess applicants.<\/li>\n
- Test scores and merit aid<\/strong>: High test scores can play a crucial role in securing merit-based financial aid, particularly for students who “undermatch.”<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
As the test prep landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about these trends will be key to helping students navigate the increasingly competitive college admissions process.<\/p>\n
For updates, join our newsletter and keep checking the NTPA Blog.<\/p>\n
About the Authors<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
Heather Krey<\/strong> has over two decades of experience in SAT and ACT preparation. She\u2019s also World Class Tutoring<\/a>\u2019s leading test prep curriculum architect. Heather earned her bachelor\u2019s degrees in engineering and psychology from Lehigh University and her M.Ed. degrees in Mathematics and Teaching from DeSales University and Kutztown University, respectively. She is certified in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and English and has taught roles at various Pennsylvania high schools. Heather has also worked as an adjunct professor at Cedar Crest College. Heather has been an NTPA member since its inception and is an active member of its blog committee.<\/p>\nDavid Blobaum<\/strong> co-founded and leads Summit Prep<\/a>, a tutoring company with two centers in New Jersey that specializes in preparing students for the SAT and ACT. He graduated from the University of Chicago with honors from the college, and in his major, he received his Executive MBA from Quantic School of Business and Technology. Since then, he has devoted himself to helping students succeed through education. He serves as the NTPA\u2019s Director of Outreach to help highlight how academic standards can help students, schools, and society.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Marc Gray<\/strong>, owner of Odyssey College Prep<\/a> and CEO of Powerful Prep<\/a>, streamlines college admissions with advanced aptitude testing<\/a>. An active blogger, he writes on college admissions, test prep, and aptitude testing. As Chair of the NTPA\u2019s Blog Committee, he updates members on the latest in test prep, college admissions, aptitude testing, and community news.<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n
References<\/h2>\n
(Back to Table of Contents)<\/a><\/p>\n
[1]<\/sup><\/a> \u201cStanford to resume standardized test requirement for admissions.\u201d Stanford Report<\/em>, 7 June 2024, https:\/\/news.stanford.edu\/stories\/2024\/06\/stanford-to-resume-standardized-test-requirement. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n
[2]<\/sup><\/a> \u201cRice announces updates to application processes | Rice News | News and Media Relations | Rice University.\u201d Rice News<\/em>, 17 June 2024, https:\/\/news.rice.edu\/news\/2024\/rice-announces-updates-application-processes. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n
[3]<\/sup><\/a> Robinson, Jenna A. \u201c\u201cSmoking-Gun\u201d Data on North Carolina ACT Scores \u2014 The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal.\u201d The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal<\/em>, 6 June 2024, https:\/\/www.jamesgmartin.center\/2024\/06\/smoking-gun-data-on-north-carolina-act-scores\/. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n
[4]<\/sup><\/a> Selingo, Jeffrey. \u201cThe New Trick Families Are Using to Lower College Tuition Bills.\u201d New York Magazine<\/em>, 25 June 2024, https:\/\/nymag.com\/intelligencer\/article\/the-new-trick-families-are-using-to-lower-college-tuition.html. Accessed 11 September 2024.<\/p>\n
[5]<\/sup><\/a> Wittman, Donald. (2024). The University of California Was Wrong to Abolish the SAT: Admissions When Affirmative Action Was Banned. Educational Measurement: Issues and Practice<\/em>, 43, 10.1111\/emip.12598.<\/p>\n
- Data supports the value of test scores<\/strong>: Recent research shows that standardized test scores are a strong predictor of college success and can help level the playing field for disadvantaged students.<\/li>\n
- Optional Science Section<\/a><\/li>\n