This article is time-sensitive. Last update on 8.10.2020

There is a lot of uncertainty about admission requirements for the upcoming admission session (First-Year applicants joining in Fall 2021). We have made it easy for here. Due to the lack of access to exam centres, other prevailing conditions, and the large cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic, most colleges have decided to de-emphasize the use of standardized tests by making admissions decisions without using ACT or SAT scores 

The most important term for us to remember here is “test-optional”. What does it mean?

• If you have SAT scores that you want to submit, submit them.
• If you have SAT scores that you do not want to submit (if they are not upto your expectations), do not submit them.
• If you do not have SAT scores, the college will still accept your application.

Most of the colleges have promised that the admissions procedure will not be biased against applications without scores.

Some colleges have, in fact, become test-blind. This means that they will NOT accept/require SAT or ACT scores for the time being. (Georgia Tech, Caltech, UWash) You do have to go through the requirements published on their websites. Some require AP Scores and some basic requirements. For Example, University of California has gone “test-Blind” for applicants 2023-24 onwards. There is in fact a lot of uncertainty about UC's admission policies. You can read more in detail here regarding the colleges which have gone test-blind, and which have not yet announced their position. Parts of UC won't use your test scores to make admissions decisions. But SAT/ACT scores may be used for: 

• Scholarships. Some scholarships may include test scores as a factor in selection.
• Determining eligibility for the statewide admissions guarantee. 
• Course placement after you enroll.

The Ivy League colleges have all chosen to go test-optional for admissions 2020-21.

For a more comprehensive list of colleges and their policies, you may check out this page.

For more guidance, get in touch with us on email.