Discontinuation of the GRE at the University of Michigan

Abstract

A major focus of Rackham Graduate School’s DEI Strategic plan is the development of policy changes and practices that substantively address inequities in the graduate admissions process and, in doing so, strengthen the diversity and excellence of Rackham programs. One such opportunity arose upon examination of the use of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test in the graduate admissions process at the University of Michigan (U-M). We examined the data regarding the efficacy of the GRE as an assessment instrument, the inequities inherent to the test, and the impact of cost and access on applicants. In all categories, the preponderance of evidence supports the characterization of the GRE as an ineffective assessment tool and one that has a disproportionately negative impact on the inclusion of non-whites, females, and international applicants in graduate education. Indeed, the majority of Rackham doctoral programs have already discontinued the use of the GRE as part of holistic efforts to support excellence and equity in their respective fields, with substantive success. Taken together, the data indicate that discontinuation of the GRE in doctoral admissions is an effective action to promote equity and excellence across the scholarly enterprise.