Understanding the Rutgers University Student Body Through the Lens of the Test-Required vs. Test-Optional Policy Debate

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 3:35 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: From Potential to Performance: Understanding Drivers of Student Success (Table 12)

Abstract

The shifting landscape of standardized testing requirements in higher education admissions has sparked considerable debate in recent years. Like many other institutions, Rutgers University had moved toward a test-optional policy during the COVID era. However, with the pandemic over, the continued need for such optionality and the implications thereof on various student outcomes and the broader admissions process is up for examination. To shed light on the debate, this study aims to address two critical research questions: the predictive value of SAT scores on academic achievement at Rutgers and the differential impact of test-optional policies on student subgroups in admissions. We recommend that submitting standardized test scores can substantially enhance the admission prospects for less-advantaged applicants.

Authors

• Ting Wang, Rutgers University

• Lisha Jiang, Rutgers University

• Eduardo Molina, Rutgers University