Cornell University and Vanderbilt University are among the latest schools to extend their test-optional policies in response to the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Both universities announced that they would continue to waive standardized test requirements for undergraduate admissions for the next admissions cycle. This decision comes as many students have been unable to take the SAT or ACT exams due to cancellations and closures of testing centers.
Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is known for its rigorous academics and competitive admissions process. The university first implemented a test-optional policy for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle and has decided to extend this policy for the 2021-2022 cycle as well. Cornell’s decision to go test-optional is intended to alleviate stress and uncertainty for prospective students and to ensure that all applicants are given equal consideration, regardless of their access to standardized testing.
Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, has also extended its test-optional policy for the upcoming admissions cycle. The university first implemented a test-optional policy for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle and has decided to continue this policy for the 2021-2022 cycle as well. Vanderbilt’s decision to waive standardized test requirements is in recognition of the challenges and disruptions that students have faced due to the pandemic.
Both Cornell and Vanderbilt join a growing list of colleges and universities that have made similar decisions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. By waiving standardized test requirements, these institutions are aiming to create a more equitable and inclusive admissions process and to ensure that all students have an opportunity to apply and be considered for admission.
For students applying to Cornell or Vanderbilt, this extended test-optional policy provides a sense of relief and flexibility during an already stressful admissions process. Without the pressure of standardized test scores, students can focus on other aspects of their applications, such as their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.
As the pandemic continues to impact the higher education landscape, it is likely that more colleges and universities will extend their test-optional policies in the coming months. This shift towards a more holistic admissions process represents a positive step towards creating a fair and equitable system for all students, regardless of their access to standardized testing.
Overall, Cornell and Vanderbilt’s decision to extend their test-optional policies demonstrates their commitment to ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education, even in the face of challenging circumstances. It is a reassuring reminder to prospective students that their worth is not solely determined by a set of test scores, but by their hard work, dedication, and unique talents.
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