SAT and ACT for the Class of 2021

Expert Contribution by Rick Michalak, Breakaway Prep, LLC

The world of college admissions has always been a little crazy. With Covid-19, it got a lot crazier. For the class of 2021, test optional will be more common than at any time in the past. With almost 4,000 colleges in the US, we are seeing changes day by day. Many that were not technically test-optional are suspending their testing requirements for the class of 2021.

Just last month, the University of California system suspended their SAT/ACT requirement for 2020/2021 applicants. This is big news; it is among the most dependent on standardized testing. Does that mean you should give up on the tests? No. These policy shifts take the pressure off our juniors given the cancelled test dates and generally crazy life situation. I believe the colleges are also trying to preserve their timeline for application deadlines. Ultimately, this is a good thing for all students. For those who have already hit nice scores on the SAT or ACT, you can give yourself a pat on the back for being ahead of the curve on timing. For those who were aiming to take the spring tests and are now looking at summer/fall test dates, embrace this opportunity to regroup and give yourself a strong score. The best way for students to think of test optional policies is this: if you score well, it’s awesome. If you don’t, it’s ok. So, there is only upside potential when preparing for and taking the SAT and ACT at this point.

Some high schools have indicated they will be moving to a pass/fail grading system for the remainder of the semester. Aim for Pass! In all seriousness, though, a lot of emphasis has been placed on the spring of 11th grade grades and for good reason. For kids who were looking forward to showing off an upward trajectory with their grades, this is still a tremendous opportunity. Teachers notice who rises to the occasion with online learning. They also notice who clicks on the audio for a Zoom meeting and then crawls back to bed! The best thing juniors can do right now is summon their inner strength and do the best they can under these conditions. This will be reflected in your recommendation letters and will in turn be noticed by admissions readers next year. Don’t underestimate the power you have this spring. If you were riding high on strong grades, keep it up! If you were struggling through the winter stretch of the year, use this as your opportunity without sports, musicals, friends, etc., to show what you are capable of and go the extra mile for your classes.

So while the college process is changing, it isn’t going anywhere. Do what you need to take care of your family right now. Breakaway Prep is here and ready to help if you need us for test prep, college admissions, or academic support. As UCLA’s Director of Admission, Gary Clark said, “It’s OK to not be OK right now.” Be safe.