California State University Ends Use of SAT and ACT for Eligibility and Admission

Today, March 23, 2022, the California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees made a historic decision to end the use of standardized testing for eligibility and admission to the university system. Today’s decision follows a national and statewide movement urging a more equitable admissions process that does not rely on racially biased admissions tests that do not accurately reflect the talent and potential of students.

The value of a four-year degree continues to be critical for the success of individual students and the collective economic success for California. With continued demand for a more highly educated workforce, college and state leaders must work to increase access while intentionally closing racial equity gaps in college going and graduation rates. We commend the CSU for its bold commitment to equitable opportunity for all students. By removing barriers to the university, we ensure that students can access the transformative power of a four-year degree and secure the economic prosperity of our state.

“I am a proud product of the CSU, and I would’ve been a product even sooner if I could’ve gotten in as a freshman. Because of the enrollment barriers that I faced and lack of tools offered to me as a student, I wasn’t equipped to have entry into the CSU. But I know that my story is the same for many all across California,” said trustee Yammilette Rodriguez as the Board deliberated the decision.