Covid 19 Updates

**COVID-19 UPDATES**

The Covid-19 pandemic has touched every aspect of our lives and has had repercussions in college admissions as well. As a result, there are several areas of the college process that may look different for the Class of 2021.

College Visits: Opportunities to visit college campuses have been curtailed and will vary throughout the coming school year depending upon the specific restrictions in each state. As a result, colleges have created extensive virtual visiting experiences including online information sessions and tours as well as options to speak with current students. Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the many possibilities in researching college campuses, academic majors and extracurricular and athletic programs. Interviews: Although many colleges that have traditionally offered interviews may not be conducting interviews on campus, most schools are offering the opportunity to interview on a virtual basis. Our department continues to encourage our students to take advantage of all available interview options. Standardized Testing: SAT and ACT testing continues to remain an evolving situation. Students will find the most recent information on each of the testing websites: College Board (www.collegeboard.org) ACT (www.act.org) Test Optional policies: the overwhelming majority of colleges have instituted test optional policies for the Class of 2021. Students will need to be mindful of each of the specific procedures and guidelines regarding the submission of test scores set out by each of their colleges. Whether or not to send test scores to individual colleges is a consideration that should be discussed with your counselor. College Representative Visits to Sacred Heart will continue to take place during the fall on a virtual basis. The overwhelming majority of colleges have restricted travel of their admissions representatives to high schools. However, Sacred Heart will host virtual visits from college representatives in the fall. Junior and senior may attend these visits, in accordance with applicable rules, and the schedule of visits will be posted in Naviance. Extracurricular, Work and Service Activities: College admissions departments are fully aware and will take into consideration the many limitations and wide-ranging impacts that the pandemic imposed on all extracurricular activities including athletics, community service and employment.