Kean Resolution Urging Colleges to Temporarily Waive SAT/ACT Testing Requirements Advances

Says Students Facing Financial Difficulties, Health Concerns & Access Issues During Pandemic

A resolution sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean urging institutions of higher education to temporarily waive testing requirements for admission in response to COVID-19 concerns has been advanced by the Senate Higher Education Committee.

Sen. Tom Kean’s resolution urging institutions of higher education to temporarily waive testing requirements for admission in response to COVID-19 concerns has been advanced by the Senate Higher Education Committee. (SenateNJ.com)

“Many high school students and their families have struggled with financial difficulties, health concerns, and testing access issues related to COVID-19,” said Kean (R-21). “We think it’s appropriate for colleges and universities to waive their testing requirements for admission temporarily to ensure that nobody is punished for the many challenges presented by the pandemic that are out of their control.”

Kean’s resolution, SR-82, notes that school closures initiated to prevent the spread of the coronavirus have impacted K-12 education, especially for students who don’t have a computer or Internet access at home for virtual learning.

Further, many opportunities to take the SAT and ACT since the pandemic began have been canceled due to social distancing guidelines and gathering restrictions. Similarly, students with health concerns may have decided to not risk their well-being to sit for an hours-long test in an environment that could be unsafe.

Additionally, wealthier students whose families can afford expensive prep exams, courses, and test coaches will have a distinct advantage when taking the SAT or ACT test over the many students whose families are suffering financially due to economic hardship caused by the pandemic.

“Students applying to college shouldn’t be denied admission based on their inability to prepare for or take the SAT or ACT tests during this difficult time,” said Kean. “Waiving the testing requirement temporarily will ensure that the immediate impact of COVID-19 doesn’t outweigh the years of hard work put in by many students. They deserve a level playing field and the opportunity to pursue their college dreams.”