Hundreds of University of California professors say test-free admissions left many freshmen unready for college math, and they want SAT or ACT scores back.
Story Snapshot
- More than 600 University of California faculty urged a return to standardized tests for science and math majors.
- Faculty cite rising gaps in math skills and say some freshmen need middle-school review.
- UC Berkeley remains “test-free” and does not use SAT or ACT in admissions.
- Equity advocates oppose testing, warning of bias and “high-stakes” harms.
Faculty Push: Readiness Gaps Drive a Call to Restore Testing
More than 600 University of California faculty members, led by University of California, Berkeley mathematicians, signed letters urging the system to restore standardized testing for applicants to science, technology, engineering, and math majors. They argue six years of test-free admissions have not measured readiness well. Some professors report teaching middle-school math to new college students. The letters ask for a clear, systemwide tool to screen math skills before placement in tough gateway classes.
Five University of California, Berkeley faculty launched the initial letter and framed scores as one part of a wider review of records, not a single gate. They say a common test helps match students to the right starting course. Backers add that failing first-term calculus can set students back or push them out of science and engineering paths. They argue a short test can prevent that harm and reduce the need for broad remediation on campus.
Current Policy: University of California, Berkeley Is Still Test-Free
University of California, Berkeley confirms it is “test-free.” The campus says it will not use SAT or ACT scores in any part of its application process, from evaluation to scholarships. If students send scores, the campus may use them later for course placement or subject credit, but not for getting in. This policy reflects a broader University of California move that removed tests from the main set of admissions factors starting in 2021.
University of California documents show leaders shifted away from the tests to widen access and reduce bias. A University of California study group advised against using the state’s K–12 Smarter Balanced exam for admissions. A 2021 University of California report also warned that any required test would become “high-stakes,” and could distort high school learning and deepen inequities. Those arguments continue to guide many University of California officials today.
Equity Concerns: Advocates Warn Against a Return to High-Stakes Exams
Advocacy groups and some scholars argue that bringing back the SAT or ACT would revive barriers for low-income and underrepresented students. Just Equations told the University of California Board of Regents that new testing rules would ignore campus efforts to improve math success without high-stakes exams. They point to tutoring, placement reforms, and better course design as safer paths to close gaps while keeping doors open to talent from every community.
“The best and the brightest.” Not exactly!
UC Berkeley calculus professor: Some of my students can’t do middle school math.
Since the UC system went test-blind (no SAT/ACT), readiness has collapsed. Diagnostic data shows the share of Calculus I students who are ready or nearly…— Virendra Maurya (@VEERA_SIPF) August 16, 2026
This fight mirrors a national pattern. After campuses drop tests, instructors sometimes see weaker preparation in entry math. Critics then blame admissions screens, while defenders tie gaps to uneven K–12 learning and say tests mostly reflect wealth. University of California’s test-free era began during the pandemic and later became policy. Now the system is reassessing, with faculty pressure rising and equity concerns holding firm. The result may shape admissions far beyond California.
What It Means: Shared Frustrations With Systems That Miss the Mark
Parents and students on the left and right see a common failure. Families want fair chances and real standards. Faculty want students ready for hard courses without remedial detours. Equity leaders want to stop bias from creeping back into who gets in. The University of California debate shows how large systems struggle to balance access and rigor. Leaders will need transparent data, clear placement tools, and support that helps students thrive on day one.
Sources:
townhall.com, govtech.com, quantadmit.com, compassprep.com, eliteprep.com, foxla.com, yahoo.com, ls.berkeley.edu, sandiegouniontribune.com
