The University of California (UC) has expedited its timeline for deciding whether to bring back standardized testing in its admissions process. This move comes amid a heated debate among faculty, with 3,000 of the university’s roughly 26,000 faculty members signing open letters urging the reinstatement of the SAT or ACT.

At a recent UC regents meeting, board chair Maria Anguiano announced that the faculty committee overseeing admissions now expects to make a recommendation by June 2027. This decision follows a period of intense discussion and pressure from various stakeholders.

Why the urgency to reinstate standardized tests?

Proponents of bringing back the SAT and ACT argue that there is a crisis of student preparedness particularly in STEM fields. Some freshmen arriving on UC campuses are reportedly unable to perform basic high-school math. UC Berkeley math professors have been vocal supporters of reinstating these tests to better assess student readiness.

Critics, however, contend that the decline in student preparation is more attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors rather than the absence of standardized tests. They argue that these tests often reflect a student’s family background and privilege more than their potential for college success.

The impact of going test-optional

When the UC system went test-optional in fall 2026, applications increased by 19%, resulting in a slightly more diverse student body. Data shows that the number of students who stayed enrolled into their second year was similar to previous classes, and their first-year GPAs were just 0.1% lower than those admitted with test scores the previous year.

However, STEM faculty on some campuses report a significant decline in students’ readiness for college-level math. Zvezdelina Stankova, a UC Berkeley math professor, noted that a large portion of students lack even basic algebra skills. This trend has led to an increase in remedial courses and a need for additional support for underprepared students.

Alternative solutions and future considerations

The UC system is exploring various options, including the use of the Smarter Balanced test which all California public school students take in the 11th grade. This test is aligned with state curriculum and could potentially predict college success as well as the SAT. However, administering it to out-of-state and private school students could pose challenges.

Another approach is to enhance support for students with gaps in their knowledge. UC Santa Barbara, for example, requires prospective STEM majors to pass a placement test or show completion of an Advanced Placement course. Those who do not pass can take coursework at a nearby community college to catch up.

The UC Student Association has come out against restoring standardized testing, advocating instead for stronger partnerships with K-12 schools and on-campus support for students with math preparation gaps. They argue that reinstating the SAT and ACT would lead to further educational inequity.

As the UC system navigates this complex issue, the ultimate decision will have significant implications for future applicants and the university’s commitment to both academic excellence and accessibility.