NJ A348

Public institutions of higher education in New Jersey must adopt test-optional admissions policies for undergraduate programs, allowing but not requiring submission of SAT and ACT scores

Standardized tests may still be required for applicants who were homeschooled for two or more years during grades 9-12, those applying to honors or specialized programs, or those seeking grants and scholarships that require test scores

Institutions may still consider test scores from applicants who voluntarily submit them

Private colleges and degree-granting proprietary institutions are encouraged, but not required, to adopt similar test-optional policies

The bill cites COVID-19 pandemic disruptions and economic disparities in access to test preparation as rationale for the policy change