Exams

Many colleges have gone test-optional this year. With many students unable to access testing centers, there is widespread recognition that students should not be penalized for the inability to take ACT and SAT exams. Test-optional means that students who do not submit test results will neither be advantaged nor disadvantaged.

Test-blind colleges are similar, but the important difference is that these institutions will ignore test results, even if applicants submit them. Students who were fortunate to take the ACT and SAT may prefer a test-optional admissions process where their scores may still be considered in their admissions decision.

FairTest.org frequently updates directories of test-optional and test-blind schools.

Virtual Tours

Like pretty much everything else, school tours have gone virtual. Unlike some other digital experiences, though, these are actually quite good. So whereas in the past, students who didn’t have the time or money to drop on a trip to visit colleges were at a disadvantage, virtual tours are an equalizer that will likely continue beyond the pandemic.

Early Acceptance

This one is not new, but rather a good reminder of a best practice no matter when or where you’re applying to college: do not agree to go to a college until you know how much it will cost. It may sound common-sense, after all, you wouldn’t book a ride-share or order shoes online if you had no idea what the price tag is. And college costs are much more complex than a price tag. So regardless of early acceptance incentives or any other reason, it’s smart to not commit until you know the exact financial picture. Your future self will thank you.