Houston ISD reports lower SAT, ACT scores during 2022-23 academic year amid statewide decline

Houston ISD student performance on the ACT and SAT dipped slightly during the 2022-2023 academic year, according to recent reports from the district. The district’s lower average scores on the ACT and SAT come amid a national and statewide decrease in performance on the national standardized tests among the Class of 2023. However, HISD students did see increased passage rates on Advanced Placement exams in 2023 compared to the previous year, similarly to other districts in Texas and the U.S. While student performance was mixed, participation in all three exams — which the state uses to determine college readiness and campus accountability ratings — increased. HISD did not respond to a request for comment on the three reports outlining ACT, SAT and AP exam student participation and performance.

Students who earn at least a 3 out of 5 on the AP exam can typically earn college credit in a variety of subjects, such as calculus or biology. Several U.S. universities require students to submit their scores on the nationally administered SAT or ACT for admission, although some colleges have gone test-optional, meaning students do not have to submit scores to attend. Thousands of HISD students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exams this year from May 6 to 10 and May 13 to 17, which will determine eligibility for college credit. Several students will also take the SAT on May 4 and June 1, while the ACT will be held on June 8 and July 13. Here’s how students performed on the exams during the 2022-23 academic year: The district reported that 87% of its seniors in the Class of 2023, or 9,760 students, took the SAT, which was offered for free during four class days. The participation rate is an increase from the previous graduating class, when 79% of students, or 8,662 people, took the exam.