Standardized Testing
Colleges are preparing for the 2021-2022 application cycle, and you should be too! REACH has compiled information and resources on standardized testing to ensure you are informed and prepared as the school year approaches.
Testing Dates
Many colleges in the United States have continued their test optional or test blind policies for the 2021-2022 application cycle—however, it is still important that you check whether you are applying to a test optional school. You can find a list of test optional colleges HERE. Also, check to see if you can apply for a fee waiver on this page before registering for the SAT, and on this page before registering for the ACT.
The SAT has not announced any major changes to the structure or the format of the exam. Seniors have 4 testing dates available before the start of 2022. If registering late, you may incur an additional fee.
The ACT has not announced any major changes to the structure of format of the exam. If registering late, you may incur an additional fee; refer to ACT.org for more info.
Application Requirements
This application cycle, there is a major change to the SAT requirements. As of June 2021, the College Board is no longer administering SAT Subjects Tests or SAT with Essay. Visit this helpful page for information about what to expect on test day as well as links to monitor COVID-19 updates and test center closings.
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Due to the pandemic, many colleges and universities have gone test optional for the foreseeable future. Institutions that have were not previously test optional–including leading schools such as Dartmouth, Penn, and Virginia–have waived all testing requirements for the upcoming admissions cycle. Check the website of all colleges on your list to find their updated testing requirements.
The Common Application is adding an additional section that will allow students to describe the impact of COVID-19 on their personal circumstances: Community disruptions such as COVID-19 and natural disasters can have deep and long-lasting impacts. If you need it, this space is yours to describe those impacts. Colleges care about the effects on your health and well-being, safety, family circumstances, future plans, and education, including access to reliable technology and quiet study spaces. Do you wish to share anything on this topic? (250 words)
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If you are unsure as to whether this question applies to you, visit this page to see some examples of impacts you might discuss.