The SAT and ACT accommodations debacle has parents up in arms, and for good reason. The once-rare practice of granting extra time to students on standardized tests has now become a widespread phenomenon, with a staggering 6.7% of SAT test-takers in 2025 receiving accommodations, up from just 2% a decade ago. This surge in accommodations has sparked a heated debate, with many parents questioning the integrity of the system and the motives of those involved. Personally, I think this issue goes beyond mere cheating; it's a symptom of a deeper problem in our education system and society at large.
The Rise of Accommodations
The College Board reports that the number of students receiving extra time on the SAT has more than tripled in the last decade. Similarly, the ACT saw a significant increase, with 7% of students receiving accommodations compared to 4.1% in 2013. These accommodations are typically reserved for students with learning disabilities like Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), but the numbers far outpace those with actual diagnoses. This raises a deeper question: are we over-accommodating, or are we simply turning a blind eye to the abuse of the system?
The Cost of Cheating
The financial cost of securing accommodations is staggering. Some parents have dropped $10,000 on neuropsychologists to secure diagnoses for their kids, while others have turned to gastroenterologists to diagnose digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome. Depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxieties can also secure ACT-takers twice the standard test time or unlimited breaks, and even as much as four days to sit the test. This raises a deeper question: are we creating a culture of entitlement, where success is measured by accommodations rather than merit?
The Impact on Other Students
The impact of this trend on other students is profound. Long Island parent Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, whose daughter told him at least 60 of her classmates received extra time, put it bluntly: "It’s cheating. It puts our kids at a disadvantage." This sentiment is echoed by many parents who feel their children are being left behind in a system that favors those with money and access. In my opinion, this is not just about fairness; it's about creating a level playing field for all students.
The Role of Professionals
Professionals like neuropsychologists and gastroenterologists have a crucial role to play in this system. Atlanta psychologist Scott Hamilton acknowledges that his profession has contributed to the abuse of accommodations, but he also believes it's not a willful conspiracy. "We lean toward wanting to help," he says. However, the line between helping and exploiting is blurred, and it's up to professionals to ensure they are not contributing to a culture of entitlement.
The Way Forward
So, what's the solution? Personally, I think we need a multi-faceted approach. First, we need to increase transparency and accountability in the system. Second, we need to invest in mental health services and support for students with learning disabilities, so that accommodations are not the only option. Finally, we need to foster a culture of meritocracy, where success is measured by hard work and dedication, not by accommodations or financial resources.
In conclusion, the SAT and ACT accommodations debacle is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. It's not just about cheating; it's about the values we want to instill in our education system and society at large. As parents, professionals, and educators, we must work together to create a system that is fair, equitable, and supportive for all students.
