AIC to Become Test Optional

American International College (AIC) will become one of the first local institutions of higher education to become SAT/ACT optional beginning spring semester 2017. This will include all applicants for all majors.

A growing trend nationally, more than 850 schools are now test optional. Thirty-five schools in Massachusetts are on board.

In a study conducted by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), college performance was evaluated for more than 100,000 students at 33 test optional colleges. It was determined that the differences in college performance of those students who submitted SAT scores and those who did not were negligent in terms of grade point averages and graduation rates. The study also found that those students who did not submit SAT scores were more likely to be first-generation-to-college applicants, minority students, women, Pell grant recipients, and students with learning differences.

A multiyear study at AIC determined that high school success is two to three times more predictive of retention and college success than standardized test scores. High school success includes rigorous courses and good grades, meaning a heavy academic course load at the highest level in which the student will excel. In addition, AIC looks for the student who is well-rounded, excelling outside of the classroom as well. In other words, an individual who will not only be an outstanding member of the AIC community but the community at large.

More information about American International College including the more than 40 programs available at the undergraduate level, can be found online at www.aic.edu/testoptional or by calling 413.205.3201.

AIC—looking at the whole student with a higher dedication to educational access.