Connecticut College expands SAT-optional policy to include all standardized tests
NEW LONDON, Conn. - Connecticut College is expanding its longstanding SAT-optional policy to include all standardized tests. Beginning with the class entering as freshmen in the fall of 2010, prospective students will not be required to submit standardized test scores as part of the application process.
The college hasn't required applicants to submit scores from the SAT Reasoning Test, which attempts to measure scholastic aptitude, since 1994. Now, the college is eliminating its requirement that students submit scores from the ACT or two SAT Subject Tests. The decision is based on industry research that shows standardized tests are biased toward affluent students and can become a barrier to higher education for disadvantaged students, as well as the college's own research, which has found that the tests are not a reliable indicator of future success at the college.
"Connecticut College takes a holistic approach to admissions," Martha C. Merrill '84, Dean of Admission and Financial Aid, said. "We get to know each of our applicants through high school transcripts, personal essays, short answers, recommendations and other application materials. Our experience has confirmed that we can effectively evaluate applicants and predict future success at the college without standardized tests."
All applicants will have the option of submitting either SAT Reasoning, SAT Subject or ACT scores if desired, Merrill said, adding that the college expects many students will choose to submit scores.
"While we haven't required SAT Reasoning Test scores for 15 years, many students still choose to submit them," Merrill said.
About Connecticut College
Situated on the coast of southern New England, Connecticut College is a highly selective private liberal arts college with 1900 students from all across the country and throughout the world. On the college's 750-acre arboretum campus overlooking Long Island Sound, students and faculty create a vibrant social, cultural and intellectual community enriched by diverse perspectives. The college, founded in 1911, is known for its unique combination of interdisciplinary studies, international programs, funded internships, student-faculty research and service learning.
For more information, visit www.conncoll.edu.
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April 8, 2009
