Observations show that few students coming from rich families are applying for accommodations on the SAT even though they have no disability. Thus, the SAT is refusing requests made by deserving students who are disabled.
Joan Ryan is the writer for SFGate.com in” Learning Disabled Left Behind. She talks about unfairness in the SAT involving the learning disabled. Professionals working with the College Board note increased claims denied in the last two years as compared to the last ten years. This begs to ask the question why so.
The SAT wants all tests in a uniform manner, arguing that honesty of the tests will compromise if not all the students sit for it at the same time. The SAT too fails to take adequate measures to deal with students found cheating.
As per the SAT accommodations has increased three times in the last 30 years. Of the 20 % population, 2% of students have had their tests adjusted to fit in with their diagnosis. Ten percent however has a formal learning disability. The remaining 8 % of students is assumed are not taking the SAT, do not apply for the accommodations or are just being refused the chance to apply.
The SAT requires proof of the disability that understands. However, it is hard to get an official diagnosis if you come from a family that does not have good insurance. Frequently, students have changes made for them while in high school but lack records. Thus, SAT refuses such requests, as there was no “proof” showing the students were in need of these changes in order to do well. All changes should be in writing on either a 504 Plan or an IEP.
Due to doubts revolving around these tests, many colleges are warming up to the idea of not making the SAT and ACT mandatory for college admissions.
