There is an old Yiddish saying, “Mann Tracht, Un Gott Lacht,” translated, “Man Plans, and God Laughs.” COVID-19 has impacted many of our best laid plans. Under normal circumstances, the college admissions process can be daunting and stressful. The added uncertainty created by the coronavirus pandemic has left many of us wondering how next year’s admissions cycle will be affected. As this is all unprecedented, the universities likely will be sympathetic and aware, but you should plan as though it will be business as usual. As universities finally are settling on their plans for the 2021 application season and for the future, we see trends that we would like to share. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
How will colleges view my online coursework?
The rigor of your curriculum and your grades will remain the most important criteria in admissions decisions. Colleges want to see that you have taken the most rigorous curriculum available to you at your particular school that is appropriate for you and your goals. We have heard directly from college admissions counselors that colleges will be understanding, given the context of your individual situations and learning disruptions.
What if I have not completed my standardized testing?
All standardized testing since March has been cancelled/postponed. As the College Board and the ACT organization scramble to reschedule these tests, no one truly knows if the they will take place and if students actually will have a chance to sit for their exams. Universities understand the difficult predicament students are facing and are making adjustments to their requirements. Many schools have announced that they will become “Test Optional” for one year or longer and will not require students to submit standardized test scores. Recently, USC announced its new test optional policy and emphasized that “We are dedicated to our holistic admission process that carefully considers the entirety of a prospective student’s work, their individual circumstances, and the specific context of their high school experiences.” Cornell, too, announced Cornell University Suspends ACT/SAT Testing. “In Cornell’s review during the 2020-2021 application cycle, results from the ACT or SAT might still be a meaningful differentiator in particular for students who…have not experienced hardships.” Finally, they say that Cornell readers “will apply stronger scrutiny to non-testing elements.”
So, what does this all mean? If you can take the test, take the test. If not, schools will figure out the best way to assess your application. The good news is that most schools holistically review applications and believe that students’ potential is reflected in much more than test scores.
How can I still show demonstrated interest?
We actually think that it will be easier than ever to demonstrate interest remotely. Register online at your favorite universities so that you will receive emails. Open the emails when you receive them. Participate in virtual Meet & Greets with your regional representative. Follow your favorite colleges’ social media accounts. For more tips, check out Demonstrate Interest From Your Couch: The College Curators’ Admissions Advice.
How do I know if I’m interested in a school if I can’t visit in person?
Visit the website of your school of choice and sign up for online tours and virtual information sessions. In our experience, these are extremely well done and informative, actually giving viewers a “feel” of the school. Learn more at Connecting with Colleges Virtually: The College Curators’ Admissions Advice.
What if all my summer programs are cancelled?
Checkout our tips on our blog, Reinvent Your Cancelled Summer: Observations from The College Curators.
The next few months will see many more changes in the college admissions landscape. As always, The College Curators are here to keep you updated and answer any questions.
