Intelligence Squared Podcast Debates: Should The SAT Be Erased?

It used to be that the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) was the gold standard for college admission. At social events a generation ago, it was common to parents boast about their children’s SAT scores.

“Brian scored a 1440.”

“Melissa scored a 1450.”

“Prisha scored a perfect 1600.”

High SAT scores used to be a badge of honor for a family with high school children planning to attend college.

But last year, only 1.5 million high school students took the SAT, down from 2.2 million in the class of 2020. Covid-19 played a big role in the decision among many schools not to move forward with at-home testing. But the move sparked even wider discussion about the test itself. Currently, at least 75 percent of colleges actually don’t require the SAT or ACT. That’s an all-time high, with many schools pledging not to return to it. But is that the right move?

Proponents call into question the efficacy and inequity of standardized tests, pointing to high-profile college admission scandals, as well as those leveraging access to resources to net higher scores. They argue a more expansive approach to admissions is better suited in selecting students. Those who defend the SAT, however, say the test presents opportunities for smart…