Miami also showed preference to Hispanic and Asian applicants, according to the study.
The study examined the probability of admission based on ACT or SAT test scores and grades from 2006. Overall, it found black students admitted had “significantly lower” SAT and ACT scores compared to those of Hispanic, Asian and white students admitted.
The odds favoring black students admitted to white students admitted was 10-1 or 8-1, depending on whether the ACT or SAT was used along with high school grades and other factors, according to the study.
Miami Interim Provost John Skillings said the study “misses the point by focusing only on test scores.”
“Miami uses a holistic review of applicants that considers about two dozen factors including leadership, writing ability, life experiences, out-of-class activities, letters of recommendation and a host of other attributes, including test scores and the potential to contribute to diversity on campus,” Skillings said.
Miami has a goal to increase the percent of multicultural students to 12 percent, up from the current 10.3 percent.
The university enrolled a record number of multicultural students this fall at 12.3 percent.
The Center for Equal Opportunity’s study also suggested students who received admissions preference have a lower graduation rate.
According to the study, the six-year graduation rate for black students was 15 points lower than others.
Skillings said Miami’s graduate rate tops others.
“Our overall graduation rate is among the top 10 in the country for public institutions. Our graduation rate for African-American students is the highest in Ohio for public institutions and exceeds the graduation rate for majority students nationwide,” Skillings said.
“Our goal is to recruit students to Miami who will be successful and the data we have affirms that we are successful in meeting that goal,” Skillings said.
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