SAT: Does Racial Bias Exist?

Abstract

SAT is one of the most widely used tests today. But much controversy surrounds it and many times the biases existing in the test have been questioned. The purpose of this paper is to explore whether these accusations against SAT hold any merit and racial bias actually exists in the test. If it does, are there any methods that can be employed to improve these tests. Analysis of different research papers and articles reveals that although the score gap in ethnic groups can be accounted to socioeconomic status and stereotype threat, considerable racial bias also exists in the test which cannot be dismissed. Improvements in SAT need to be made on immediate basis, because millions of applicants reside on this test in the future. Not dealing with this problem on immediate basis also compromises the ethical and moral standards of the society.