In August 2023, Clark Atlanta University will no longer require standardized testing from applicants. The move to become test-optional is a significant change for the historically black college and university (HBCU), which has traditionally required applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.
The decision to go test-optional comes as more and more colleges and universities are moving away from standardized testing. In recent years, a number of studies have shown that standardized tests are not as good at predicting college success as previously thought. In fact, some studies have even shown that standardized tests can bias against students from certain demographic groups.
Clark Atlanta University is not the first HBCU to go test-optional. In 2021, Howard University, another prominent HBCU, announced that it would no longer require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores. A number of other HBCUs, including Spelman College and Morehouse College, have also gone test-optional in recent years.
The move to test-optional is a positive step for Clark Atlanta University and for HBCUs in general. Standardized tests have long been a barrier to access for students from underrepresented groups. By going test-optional, Clark Atlanta University is making it easier for students from all backgrounds to apply to and attend the university.
The decision to go test-optional means that applicants to Clark Atlanta University will no longer be required to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, applicants may still choose to submit test scores if they believe that their scores will help them stand out in the application process.
For students who are not strong test-takers, the decision to go test-optional is good news. Students will no longer have to worry about their test scores hurting their chances of admission to Clark Atlanta University.
In the absence of standardized test scores, Clark Atlanta University will place more emphasis on other factors in the admissions process, such as:
- High school GPA
- Rigor of high school coursework
- Class rank
- Extracurricular activities
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
There are a few things that applicants can do to prepare for the test-optional admissions process:
- Maintain a strong academic record. This includes taking challenging courses and earning good grades.
- Get involved in extracurricular activities. This shows that you are well-rounded and have interests outside of the classroom.
- Write a strong personal statement. This is your chance to tell the admissions committee about your goals, aspirations, and why you want to attend Clark Atlanta University.
- Get good letters of recommendation. This is important because it shows that other people believe in your abilities and think that you would be a good fit for Clark Atlanta University.
The decision by Clark Atlanta University to go test-optional is a positive step for the university and for HBCUs in general. By removing the barrier of standardized testing, Clark Atlanta University is making it easier for students from all backgrounds to apply to and attend the university.