Penn State is making SAT and ACT score submissions optional for prospective students applying for summer or fall 2021 undergraduate admission, the university announced Monday.
“We are making this change to give Penn State applicants a choice that will ease the anxiety that many future students and families are experiencing as a result of test-taking disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Vince Timbers, interim executive director of admissions, said in a release.
Prospective students can begin applying for the summer and fall 2021 semesters on Aug. 1. They’ll have the option on their applications to use test scores while they’re evaluated for admission. However, submitting a score won’t be required.
According to the university, test scores have been one of many factors used in determining admission, with evaluations based primarily on high school performance.
“Throughout Penn State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have worked to provide students with flexibility so that they can still meet their goals of a Penn State education in a way that best serves their needs,” Timbers said. “We continue to work hard to minimize the impacts of situations that are out of students’ control.”
Penn State said it will continue evaluating applications based on high school performance, student activity involvement, and essay writing. The university hopes being test-optional next year will give prospective students the flexibility they need amid the pandemic.
Test scores will still be required for admission to certain programs. For more information, students are encouraged to visit Penn State Admissions’ website.
