| Description |
Though the United States continues to become more diverse, college campuses remain homogenous. Enrollment professionals have been working on ways to increase accessibility to higher education, and through the last 20 years, test-optional policies have been gaining traction. Today, institutions are faced with a tough decision to make to continue requiring test scores, or to introduce policies with less focus on standardized testing. This study portrays how test-optional policies work at eight institutions around the country and whether they promote accessibility or not. In this thesis, I focus on individual policies while illustrating society's deep reliance on standardized testing. Participants shared advice and reflected on the responsibility enrollment professionals have to further diversity, equity, and inclusion. Additionally, I explore how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world of admissions, an impact that has altered the status quo in the industry. Lastly, I reflect on what colleges and universities should do moving forward. Commitment to access is not just some words to add on a mission, commitment to access means commitment to change and a commitment to all. |
