The majority of U.S. colleges and universities have decided to make the SAT and ACT optional for admission in the fall of 2021, some on a temporary basis, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the trend for colleges to become test optional.

“It’s definitely warranted because most students have had trouble accessing a test or preparation for it,” College Advisor Mr. Boland said. “There’s a lot of students that are not geared towards standardized tests.”

Prior to the pandemic, a large number of schools were already going test optional for admission. By September 2019, 1,050 colleges have already enacted a non mandatory option for standardized tests.

“It’s a good opportunity for the students to show off their strengths elsewhere like in an essay, resume, or their service opportunities,” Mr. Boland said. “It doesn’t hurt anybody because the students are still able to submit their test scores, it’s a win-win for everybody”

The College Board has encouraged college and universities to extend test deadlines to consider the hardships students are having due to COVID-19. Many students are reluctant to take the ACT, but are glad colleges and universities are making accommodations.

“Preparing for and taking the ACT this year has been a pain in the neck for me and a lot of my friends,” Senior Leo Fiordelisi said. “If it wasn’t for the pushed back deadlines and many colleges and universities making their admissions process test optional, I don’t know what I would have done.”