100 Years Ago, Students Across the U.S. Took the First SAT. Today, Relatively Few Colleges Require the Test. Where Is It Headed?

A century ago, the SAT debuted as a nationwide tool for assessing college readiness, evolving through various changes in its format and purpose. Today, only a handful of colleges mandate the test, reflecting broader shifts in how higher education institutions evaluate applicants. This shift signifies a potential future where the SAT's role diminishes, raising questions about its legacy and the metrics used to gauge student preparedness for college. As the higher education landscape continues to transform, the SAT's place in this evolving system remains uncertain.