List of Colleges Extending Test-Optional Policies
UPDATED: List of Colleges Extending Test-Optional Policies
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on a number of changes within the standardized testing industry, including the introduction of a new, entirely digital testing format and many colleges shifting to a test-optional admissions process for the 2020-21 admissions cycle. In fact, 75% of four-year colleges and universities will not require SAT or ACT scores for the 2021-22 admissions cycle.
IvyWise Live: Navigating Standardized Testing in the New Normal
Limited testing availability for both the ACT and SAT in 2020, and the decision to not move forward with at-home testing, has forced many colleges and universities across the US to suspend the requirement for SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process. Now, more than 1,800 colleges and universities in the US are extending their test-optional policies through the 2021-22 application cycle, with some making the move to test-optional even longer or permanent.
Cornell University and Columbia University were the two first Ivy League schools to announce that they are extending their test-optional policies for the 2021-22 admissions cycle.
However, some schools still made it clear that they value these scores in some capacity, so they were encouraging students to submit them if they already have them. US News and World Report has also announced it will rank test-blind colleges, giving more flexibility to schools that have decided not to accept test scores at all this year and in the next admissions cycle.
Curious if any of the colleges on your best-fit list are extending their test-optional policies? Keep reading to learn more about which institutions are putting a pause on requirements for SAT/ACT scores.
*Source: FairTest.org, Individual university websites
While there have been significant changes to the college search and application process due to COVID-19, it is possible to feel confident about your applications by doing your research and preparing accordingly. If you are in the midst of your own college search and looking for expert guidance, our team of college admissions counselors can offer personalized insight.
Also, check out our IvyWise Knowledgebase for the latest updates on how COVID-19 is impacting admissions, and download our free 2021-22 College Prep Guide for information and insight on how to prepare for college admissions this fall.
