Saul Geiser

Saul Geiser is a Researcher at the Center for Studies in Higher Education at the University of California, Berkeley. He holds a Ph.D. in sociology from UC Berkeley and has extensive experience in admissions research, serving as director of admissions research for the UC system after the 1996 ban on affirmative action in California. His work focuses on equity, validity, and policy in college admissions, particularly addressing issues of standardized testing and race-blind criteria.

Geiser’s research has significantly influenced UC admissions policies, including the development of the Eligibility in the Local Context policy (top 9% guarantee) and the 2020 decision to phase out SAT/ACT requirements. His studies highlight the growing correlation between race and SAT scores, advocating for criterion-referenced eligibility standards to expand access for underrepresented groups.

• Education: Ph.D. in Sociology, UC Berkeley
• Key Contributions:
  • Phased elimination of SAT/ACT in UC admissions
  • Advocacy for holistic review systems
  • Development of the 9% local context policy

His publications critique the role of standardized testing in perpetuating inequities while proposing evidence-based alternatives to ensure valid and equitable admissions criteria.