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The College Board is transitioning toward fully digital standardized tests. While teachers and administrators are deciding whether or not to administer digital testing in schools, students are concerned about their chances at pursuing higher education. As a high school senior, I have stressed over questions like: Will my SAT score be lower because of digital testing? Will this score decrease my chances of getting into college? Will my score equal a large enough scholarship to afford college?
Although technological standards in schools are progressing, not every student has the financial ability to keep up. The only devices admitted during digital exams are laptops or tablets, and not every student has access to them. Often, the scholarship benefits offered by standardized tests are needed most by those who are least able financially to take them.
Even up-to-date technology is not always reliable. During the pandemic, the College Board administered digital-only exams and was sued because some students couldn’t submit their answers. Even the smallest glitch, something that occurs every day, can be detrimental to a student’s future education.
In every testing scenario, whether it be a concern of financial aid or unreliable internet, stress is undoubtedly a byproduct. No one’s education should be hindered because of financial abilities. The College Board should continue to administer paper-only standardized tests in favor of every student in every situation. While your student’s school is deciding between paper or digital testing, please push for paper.
Gwyneth Rand
Hampden
