This week in college admissions, Yale returns to requiring standardized testing, University of California faculty press for a return to standardized testing, the University of Florida introduces Early Decision, Swarthmore offers free tuition for some families, and Clemson names a new president.
Starting this fall, first-year and transfer applicants to Yale will be required to submit either SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. Like many schools, Yale went test-optional during the pandemic. The university then instituted a “test-flexible” policy in 2024, whereby students had a choice of submitting either SAT, ACT, AP, or International Baccalaureate scores.
Hundreds of University of California (UC) faculty are urging a return to standardized testing for STEM applicants, citing enrolled students’ “severe” math deficiencies. Since 2021, the UC system has been test-blind, meaning they do not consider standardized test scores such the SAT and ACT when making admissions decisions.
The University of Florida (UF) announced they will offer a binding Early Decision plan for the first time this fall. The deadline will be October 15 and applicants will receive their admissions decisions on December 11. UF also offers Early Action and Regular Decision plans.
Beginning in the fall of 2027, Swarthmore College will cover the cost of tuition for families earning up to $200,000 per year. Families may also qualify for additional aid, up to the full cost of attendance. The new policy, known as the Swarthmore Tuition Guarantee, applies to domestic students only.
Clemson University has named Kevin Guskiewicz as its new president. Guskiewicz is the current president of Michigan State University, and recently received a $1 million raise from MSU in an effort to keep him from leaving. In a statement, Guskiewicz cited “differing perspectives” as a reason for his departure from MSU.
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