In the state of Tennessee, public school students are required to participate in a postsecondary readiness assessment as a part of their education. This requirement is outlined in T.C.A. § 49-6-6001, which states that all public school students must participate in a postsecondary readiness assessment such as the ACT® or SAT®.
According to the Tennessee Department of Education, districts may choose to administer the ACT® or the SAT®. Districts can also provide both assessments so students can choose the assessment that is right for them.
The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for postsecondary education and to gain valuable information about their academic strengths and weaknesses. The results of these assessments can be used to inform instruction and support student success.
It is important to note that the ACT® or SAT® are not the only factors that colleges use to make admissions decisions, but they can be important information for students and educators to have as they plan and prepare for college. Additionally, colleges and universities in Tennessee also consider other factors such as high school GPA, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
The state of Tennessee also offers various programs such as the Tennessee Promise and the Tennessee Reconnect, which provide free tuition for students attending community and technical colleges in the state. These programs are designed to increase college access and affordability for Tennessee students and help them achieve their educational and career goals.
By requiring all public school students to participate in a postsecondary readiness assessment such as the ACT® or SAT®, the state of Tennessee is taking an important step towards ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve their goals. The results of these assessments can be used to support student success and inform instruction, helping students to be better prepared for college and beyond.