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HB 4497

To not entitle WV students to get aid from any WV schools unless they pass a college qualification exam in the 10th grade

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Amos and 1 co-sponsor

West Virginia bill would deny state financial aid to students who fail a mandatory college qualification exam taken in 10th grade, potentially limiting higher education access.

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Bill Summary · HB 4497

Legislative bill overview

HB 4497 would make passage of a college qualification exam in 10th grade a mandatory prerequisite for West Virginia students to receive financial aid from in-state schools. Students who do not pass the exam would be ineligible for state-funded aid regardless of other qualifications or circumstances. The bill creates a single high-stakes testing requirement as a gatekeeping mechanism for educational funding access.

Why is this important

This policy would fundamentally alter who has access to affordable higher education in West Virginia by conditioning aid on a single assessment taken at age 15-16. It could significantly impact college enrollment rates, particularly among students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and may reshape high school curricula and student trajectory decisions. The measure raises questions about equitable access to education and the state's commitment to supporting all qualified students.

Potential points of contention

  • Testing fairness and bias: Single standardized tests can disadvantage students with learning disabilities, limited test preparation resources, or those who perform poorly under pressure, potentially creating disparities by race, income, and disability status
  • Inflexibility and life circumstances: A 10th-grade exam doesn't account for students who mature academically later, face personal challenges, improve dramatically by senior year, or transfer schools mid-education
  • Brain development and timing: Neuroscience research suggests 10th graders' prefrontal cortexes are still developing; this timing may not accurately predict college readiness or success

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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