Summary of the Article: “A Misguided War on the SAT”, NYTimes. Jan 7, 2024

Universities and educators argue that the SAT perpetuates inequalities because disadvantaged students can’t access SAT prep courses like those from wealthier families and high schools in more affluent areas. Past studies show a low correlation between high school grades and SAT scores. This low correlation is probably due to a lot of grade inflation in high schools. However, the data presented in this article shows test scores, regardless of the student’s high school type, are highly correlated to college grades. Thus, as part of a holistic review, the test scores can help admissions officers choose students most likely to succeed at the university regardless of social, racial, and economic background.

The article concludes that the SAT is useful if used correctly in the college admissions process. The SAT will not necessarily hurt a student with good grades and from an advantaged background or school. However, the SAT can significantly help a student from a disadvantaged background gain admittance to a college where they can gain upward social and economic mobility, thus contributing to society at large.