In a positive turn of events for Indian students aspiring to study in the United States, Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League research university, has decided to reintroduce the standardized testing requirement for undergraduate admissions. This strategic move is based on a recent research study commissioned by Dartmouth President Sian Beilock, affirming the significant value of standardized testing in Dartmouth's undergraduate application process.

The Research Study

The decision to reinstate the SAT requirement was driven by a comprehensive research study conducted by Dartmouth economists under the guidance of President Sian Beilock. The study concluded that standardized testing plays a pivotal role in evaluating applicants and contributes substantially to the overall effectiveness of Dartmouth's undergraduate admissions process.

 

 

While the standardized testing requirement has been reinstated, it's important to note that Dartmouth's English language proficiency policy remains unchanged. This commitment ensures that international students, including those from India, meet the necessary language standards to thrive in Dartmouth's academic environment.

 

Dartmouth College had initially suspended its standardized testing requirement in June 2020, along with several other U.S. colleges and universities, in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the institution has clarified that the test-optional policy was intended as a short-term measure rather than a definitive commentary on the role of testing in their holistic evaluation process.

 

 

With approximately 25,000 Indian students taking the SAT every year, the reinstatement of the standardized testing requirement at Dartmouth College is particularly good news for Indian applicants. The move aligns with Dartmouth's commitment to maintaining a robust and fair evaluation process for all prospective students, emphasizing the continued importance of standardized testing in assessing academic readiness.

Dartmouth College's decision to reinstate the SAT requirement brings optimism for Indian students navigating the complex landscape of U.S. higher education. As Dartmouth reaffirms the value of standardized testing in its admissions process, it underscores the university's dedication to ensuring a comprehensive and equitable evaluation of applicants. Indian students aspiring to pursue their academic goals in the United States can now approach Dartmouth with renewed confidence, knowing that their academic achievements will be thoroughly considered through this reinstated testing requirement.