I think you’re half-right there. To my understanding, IQ tests do measure generalized intelligence, and a lot of standardized tests correlate to them fairly we

I think you’re half-right there. To my understanding, IQ tests do measure generalized intelligence, and a lot of standardized tests correlate to them fairly well. However, elite universities have been deemphasizing standardized tests for decades in favor of fuzzier admissions criteria. This, among other things, enables discrimination against minorities that overperform on standardized tests (historically Jews, currently Asians). You’re right that the elite class is a self-selected cultural elite, but standardized tests are less of a tool and more of an impediment to their self-selection process.