What will the 2020-2021 Admission Cycle look like?

“How The Coronavirus Has Upended College Admissions” aired on the morning edition of NPR yesterday and reflects what I’ve been hearing from my colleagues and college admissions experts. 

What We Know:

•  Many schools have adopted a test-optional policy for the 2020-2021 admission cycle BUT if a student has an ACT/SAT score that reflects his/her academic profile (submit it!) This provides admissions with another data point to consider during the evaluation process and will strengthen your application!

• If applicants either don’t have an ACT/SAT test score or elect not to submit one (because they feel it’s not representative of who they are as a student) they MAY be required to submit a new/additonal requirement with their application. This requirement could be in the form of another supplemental essay, AP scores, Subject 2 test scores, online interview, and/or a graded paper. Every school’s policy is different so be sure to look at both the application and their website (in advance.)

• When reviewing applications that do not include standardized test scores admissions will place greater emphasis on the other required application credentials including, academic performance, course rigor, personal statement, supplemental essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities and leadership roles. 

• There was an increase in accepted students from the Class of 2024 who requested (and were granted) a one year deferral in favor of a Gap Year. As a result we witnessed a higher number of students who were taken off the waitlist and late into the summer. What we don’t know, is how that will affect the Class of 2025. Did they over admit or under admit this past admission cycle? Honestly, they won’t know until school actually starts and they see if everyone who enrolled, will actually show up!

What We DON’T Know: 

• Will the number of ED (Early Decision) applicants be lower than usual this year? Considering ED is binding, and students are unable to visit the college campus, they may not be willing to commit to a school (sight unseen.)

• OR will the ED (Early Decision ) applicant pool be more competitive than usual because students are willing to gamble if it means it will minimize the uncertainty of acceptance this year?

• And don’t be surprised to see more ED and EA (Early Action) deferrals this year as colleges may want to see applicants fall semester grades before making their admissions decision.

• Will there be an increase in overall applications? (Maybe) - assuming students will apply to more schools due to the uncertainty of admissions this year and/or because more schools do not require SAT/ACT scores.

•  Or, will there be a decrease in applications? (Maybe) - assuming students and their parents are reevaluating their options, like taking a Gap Year after high school, or earning an online degree while working a part-time job, or possibly learning a trade or attending their in-state college to save money and stay close to home. Plus, with college recruiters unable to travel cross-country to recruit students (in-person) they may end up with fewer applicants.

The college search and admissions process has become more complicated and competitive over the years but this is unchartered territory. My advice to students (especially those without standardized test scores) is to do the following:

• Be sure to select teachers who can/will write you a strong letter of recommendation and ask if they’d like you to provide examples or support that helps demonstrate your growth, intellectual curiosity, and love of learning in their classroom.

• If there’s an opportunity for you to do a virtual interview or meeting with your Admissions Representative at a college, take it and prep for it! This is your chance to learn more about the school and/or program and an opportunity to make a lasting impression.

• Use your personal statement, supplemental essays, activity descriptions, and additional info/Covid-19 sections wisely! This is your chance to demonstrate your values/characteristics and show colleges what you have to offer - This is how you will stand out among this year’s applicants!