The University of California system announced it will conduct a data-driven review of its ban on SAT and ACT testing requirements for admissions, following concerns raised by faculty about student preparedness.

UC President James B. Milliken made the announcement after receiving warnings from approximately 1,400 professors who reported they are being forced to re-teach middle school-level mathematics to incoming students. The faculty members described the math preparation gaps as "severe."

The UC system suspended the use of SAT and ACT scores in admissions decisions, citing concerns about equity and access for underrepresented students. The policy was part of broader efforts to reduce barriers that might disadvantage certain student populations in the college application process.

However, faculty across the UC system have now reported significant challenges in teaching college-level coursework when students lack fundamental mathematical skills typically acquired in middle school. The professors' concerns suggest that the absence of standardized testing metrics may have contributed to admitting students who are not adequately prepared for university-level academic work.

The upcoming review will examine data on student performance and preparedness to determine whether modifications to current admissions policies are needed. The UC system has not specified a timeline for completing the review or what changes, if any, might be implemented based on the findings.