SAT, ACT Cheats Get Off Easy

College Board dismisses 'a couple points,' touts test-takers' diversity

(NEWSER) - The average SAT score for 2007 was the lowest in years, but that's not necessarily bad news. Scores from round two of the revamped college-entrance exam declined an average of seven points nationwide, which the College Board chalks up to greater participation, particularly among students who weren't on a traditional college-prep path, the AP reports. More»

(NEWSER) - Minority participation in the SAT is up to 40% in 2009, the highest level ever, the Washington Post reports. That's up 2 points since last year and a whopping 10 points since 1999. “More than ever, the SAT reflects the diversity of students in our nation's classrooms," says the president of the College Board, which crafts the test. Overall scores (out of 2,400) fell 1 point each in critical reading (501) and writing (493), while math remained the same (515). More»

Use of own diagnostic tests clouds real results

(NEWSER) - Many test-prep companies make impressive-sounding guarantees about students’ SAT performance, but an independent study finds that the courses offer little real improvement. Part of the problem may be tutors’ use of too-hard mock tests to judge students’ baseline performance, producing a false inflation that’s used to justify thousands of dollars in fees, reports the Wall Street Journal. More»

Panel recommends move away from standardized testing

(NEWSER) - Colleges should make admissions decisions without requiring the SAT or ACT, says a group of deans led by Harvard's admissions chief in a yearlong study that concluded standardized tests distort students' high school experiences, exacerbate class disparities, and enrich only the billion-dollar test prep industry. Instead, say the admissions officers, colleges should place greater emphasis on high school coursework and introduce a new, broader achievement test. More»

Officials slam new policy as benefit to wealthy kids

(NEWSER) - High school students can soon pick which of their SAT scores are sent to colleges, the Los Angeles Times reports. Starting with the class of 2010, the College Board, which administers the exam, will reverse its policy of sending all results—good, bad, or indifferent. A spokesman said the change would give students more control and less stress. More»