The SAT Isn’t the Problem. Access to Prep Is.
The SAT itself is not the primary source of inequity in college admissions; rather, it's the prep system surrounding it that perpetuates disparities. Affluent families spend thousands on private tutors and prep programs, while lower-income students often rely on outdated materials or free online resources.
On March 14, millions of high school students took the first SAT of 2026, reigniting the debate over standardized tests' fairness. The test itself isn't the primary source of inequity; it's the prep system that perpetuates disparities. Affluent families spend thousands on private tutors and customized study plans, while lower-income students rely on outdated materials or free online resources. Research found that fewer than 5% of middle-class students score above 1300, and only one in five low-income students takes the test. A.I.-powered learning tools are making test prep more accessible, providing diagnostic assessments and adaptive practice without the high price tag. These tools can help level the playing field and surface high-achieving students from under-resourced schools.
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