The University of California system has suspended the SAT/ACT requirement for undergraduate admissions through 2024. This move comes amid rising concerns that standardized test scores are heavily affected by socio-economic status; the ongoing coronavirus pandemic also played a role in the decision. 

The entering classes of 2021 and 2022 (current 10th and 11th graders) will have the option of submitting standardized tests for consideration in the admissions process, with no penalty for not submitting scores. 

Entering classes of 2023 and 2024 (current 9th and 8th graders) will be allowed to submit “test-blind,” meaning that standardized test scores will not count for admissions but can be used for decisions like course placement. 

In the meantime, UC will attempt to develop or identify a new standardized test; if no new test is devised by 2025, UC will suspend standardized testing requirements altogether. 

See the full proposal.