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Covid-19 Updates for HS Juniors and Sophomores

The college admissions landscape is changing rapidly and I will keep you updated when I have new information to share.

Testing

Nothing has changed regarding testing since my last post, but it bears repeating because there is some confusing information out there.

All colleges in the UC System have eliminated the requirement for current juniors to submit SAT or ACT testing when they apply this fall. So far, this is only applicable to current juniors. Some of my students have UCs on their list, and some don’t. My advice is for juniors to take SAT and ACT as soon as they can, for colleges that have not eliminated the requirement.

Three popular colleges for California students have recently gone test-optional. This means students do not need to submit testing when applying from now forward: Chapman University, University of Redlands, and the University of Oregon. It still makes sense for some students to submit testing to these colleges, for reasons we will discuss individually. Therefore, my advice is for juniors to take SAT and ACT as soon as they can.

SAT

The May testing date has been canceled. The next planned test date is June 6, but that may be canceled also. Juniors, please register for the next date available, as soon as it is available. Expect large numbers of students trying to register for the nearest upcoming date. Find updated information here.

ACT

The April 4 test date was rescheduled to June 13. The next available test after that is July 18. Take the June test or register for the July test as soon as possible, and expect large numbers of students to try to register. Find updated information here.

AP

Students who are currently taking AP classes should take the new online version of the AP test —sophomores and juniors to strengthen their college applications and obtain college credit for passing the test. For example, the UC System offers college credit for scores 3 and above. The test will be administered in May, and taken at home. More details on AP testing are available here.

Juniors, while you are at home, it is a GREAT time to study online for the SAT or ACT.

It’s also a great time to work hard to make your high school grades the best they can be. A friend who is a graduating senior at Brown University has offered to tutor my students in any subject for free. To take advantage of this, let me know and I will connect you.

Evaluating Colleges You Can’t Visit

A new tool is available for students to view virtual tours, events and information sessions from over 500 colleges. It is being updated in real-time by college counselors all over the country. Please look for your colleges and continue researching.