During a recent event, Gov. Gavin Newsom addressed concerns related to SAT and ACT requirements in California. Over 3,000 University of California faculty members have raised issues about students’ math preparedness through open letters. A report from UC San Diego indicated that a significant number of incoming students fall below high school and middle school math standards. This follows the 2020 decision by the UC Board of Regents to remove SAT and ACT from admission considerations.

Newsom stated that while everyone has their perspective on SAT requirements, he wants to see more data before making any decisions. He emphasized the importance of evidence in such discussions and noted ongoing conversations with UC President James B. Milliken and the board.

The University of California responded to the faculty concerns by announcing a review of its standardized testing policy. Milliken highlighted the importance of college preparedness, mentioning a comprehensive review to support student readiness and success at UC.

Notably, a Berkeley mathematics professor expressed concern over students arriving unprepared, citing ‘test-blind’ policies as a contributing factor. The professor observed many students lacking basic math skills necessary for college-level work.

Karajean Hyde, a co-director at UC Irvine’s Math Project, stressed the need for objective benchmarks in assessing student readiness. Thousands of UC professors are advocating for the return of standardized testing to maintain academic standards.