The Impact of COVID-19 on College Admissions: SAT and ACT Cancellations

With the unprecedented global health crisis brought by COVID-19, college admission boards and test administrations like the SAT and ACT are facing critical decisions that could significantly impact the future of students and educational institutions. This article explores the current state of these examinations and the potential consequences for aspiring college applicants.

June 2020 SAT and ACT Cancellations

The SAT, originally scheduled to be held in June 2020, was officially cancelled. The next proposed SAT date is set for August 29th, 2020. In contrast, the ACT has maintained its June test and has even added extra dates in June and July, indicating a push to keep the testing process ongoing.

Both tests are rapidly transitioning to online platforms, allowing them to continue examining students even when traditional testing sites are unavailable. This move underscores the adaptability and resourcefulness of the test administration in the face of significant challenges.

Official Guidance and Possible Cancellations

Based on the current information, it appears likely that the June tests for both SAT and ACT will not proceed, unless there is a drastic change by May. President Trump has officially stated that all standardized tests will be cancelled for the remainder of the year. This decision is backed by a number of schools that are either withdrawing or planning to withdraw SAT/ACT requirements for the graduating class of 2021 (or the incoming class of 2025).

The Unprecedented Nature of the Situation

Going beyond the immediate health concerns posed by COVID-19, there are several practical challenges that need to be addressed:

Testing Site Availability: Schools will have closed for the year several months prior to the proposed June testing, making it unprecedented for these exams to be administered in such an environment. Proctor Availability: The issue of proctoring becomes even more critical, as schools may not have the necessary personnel available to oversee online testing sessions.

College Admissions Professionals are confronted with unparalleled circumstances. Admissions teams are navigating staked territories as they finalize their enrollment processes, which traditionally dominate their focus at this time of the year.

As colleges and universities seek to plan and adapt, the cancellation of these standardized tests introduces a layer of uncertainty that could affect the admission landscape. Understanding and anticipating the implications of these changes is crucial for both students and institutions.

Conclusion

The ramifications of the SAT and ACT cancellations are far-reaching, impacting not just individual students but the broader framework of college admissions. As the situation evolves, ongoing collaboration and adaptability will be key in ensuring a more resilient and supportive college experience for the future.