# @civiccentertv on YouTube

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://youtube.com/watch?v=tbK8J3E1AB0
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/26636134-civiccentertv-youtube
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/7192297d8e.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-02-06T17:43:35.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Civic Center TV (@civiccentertv) — https://gondola.cc/civiccentertv

## Caption

Oakland University Director of Admissions Shane Lewis explains why Oakland University has joined other collegiate institutions in making their admissions "test-optional."

🎓 Oakland University Makes Standardized Testing Optional | The Splash Live

Oakland University has officially made SAT and ACT scores optional for first-year students beginning in the Winter 2026 semester! This follows a temporary policy that began in Fall 2020 and has now been made permanent to improve accessibility and reduce barriers to higher education.

In this episode of The Splash Live, we sit down with Shane Lewis, Director of Admissions at Oakland University, to discuss why OU made this decision, the impact it has on students, and what it means for college admissions moving forward.

🔹 Why Test-Optional?
Mr. Lewis explains that research and national trends show that high school grades are a stronger predictor of college success than standardized test scores. The change aligns with efforts to support first-generation students and those from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, making college more accessible to all.

🔹 How Does This Benefit Students?

Reduces application stress and anxiety
Encourages more students to apply, particularly those who may struggle with standardized testing
Aligns with the Michigan Assured Admission Pact (MAAP), guaranteeing admission to students with a 3.0+ GPA at participating Michigan public universities
🔹 Enrollment Trends & OU’s Commitment to Higher Education
Since the pandemic, Oakland University has seen steady growth in applications and new undergraduate enrollments. The goal is to contribute to Michigan’s initiative of achieving 60% degree attainment statewide by 2030, helping students secure higher lifetime earnings and better career opportunities.

🔹 Advice for High School Students
Mr. Lewis shares key tips for students navigating the admissions process under this new policy:
✅ Focus on your high school grades – With test scores optional, GPA matters more than ever
✅ Explore your college options – Take campus tours, attend info sessions, and find the best fit
✅ Stay engaged in the admissions process – Utilize resources and ask questions to maximize opportunities

Don't miss this insightful conversation on The Splash Live! Let us know in the comments: Do you think more universities should adopt test-optional policies?

📺 Watch now and stay connected with local news from West Bloomfield and beyond!

#OaklandUniversity #CollegeAdmissions #TestOptional #SAT #ACT #HigherEducation #WestBloomfield #TheSplashLive

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## Stats

- **Views:** 50
- **Likes:** 2
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 0

## Tags

thesplashlive, sat, act, oaklanduniversity, highereducation, testoptional, collegeadmissions, westbloomfield

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