UC temporarily adjusts admissions requirements to help students, families in wake of COVID-19
Think twice before avoiding the SAT/ACT!
According to the University of California system, (https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/press-room/uc-eases-admissions-requirements-help-students-families-wake-covid-19) due to the Coronavirus pandemic, they have decided to adjust admissions requirements on their applications. This decision has suspend the SAT/ACT requirements for the 2021 admission cycle.
“We want to help alleviate the tremendous disruption and anxiety that is already overwhelming prospective students due to COVID-19,” said John A. Pérez, chair of the Board of Regents, the governing board for UC. “By removing artificial barriers and decreasing stressors – including suspending the use of the SAT – for this unprecedented moment in time, we hope there will be less worry for our future students.”
This decision is temporary until further notice. The suspension of this testing mandate doesn’t mean that it is permanent. However, should this mandate remain with the CollegeBoard finding a method for students to take the exam, students should you still attempt the exam?
The answer is YES!
The main reason is human bias within admissions officers and departments. Having a high score automatically triggers good thoughts in an admissions officer. Additionally, students who have a score will show that they found a way to take an exam despite the pandemic. This can bias the admissions officer to think that this student is more responsible or forward thinking.
The best advise would be to act as though these exams are still a necessity for admissions.
