Ed Source
Michael Burke and Yuxuan Xie
October 19, 2026
More University of California freshmen are failing introductory math classes, including calculus, precalculus and preparatory mathematics, which can cover topics such as algebra or trigonometry. The share who received a D or F, withdrew or did not pass has nearly doubled since 2020-21. Some faculty argue students are unprepared because UC no longer requires the SAT or ACT for admission. UC is weighing whether to reinstate high-stakes exams, though not all faculty support the idea.