CCIndicator-CollegeAdmissionExams

Measures for a College and Career Readiness Indicator: College Admission Exams

This white paper considers college admission exams—specifically the SAT® and ACT®—as potential measures to be included in California’s college and career indicator. This white paper begins by presenting a brief overview of the two exams, their respective histories, and their current applications to other state accountability systems. Next, the SAT and ACT are evaluated against the framework being used for all five categories of potential college and career preparedness measures. This white paper concludes with a summary that identifies major strengths, weaknesses, and tradeoffs.

A Complete Definition of College and Career Readiness

A student who is ready for college and career can qualify for and succeed in entry-level, credit- bearing college courses leading to a baccalaureate or certificate, or career pathway-oriented training programs, without the need for remedial or developmental coursework. However, not every student requires the same proficiency in all areas. A student’s interests and post-high school aspirations influence the precise knowledge and skill profiles necessary to be ready for postsecondary studies.