Four years ago, I was in a similar spot many high school juniors and rising seniors find themselves in at this very moment. I remember the stress of picking a topic for my college essay, asking teachers to write my letters of recommendation, and studying for the SATs. While balancing these tasks the summer before my senior year of high school was difficult, I cannot imagine the pressure and uncertainties the class of 2021 is facing amidst the global pandemic. After all, junior year is the most crucial year for your college application.
Related article: How to Survive Your Junior Year of High School
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, applying to colleges and universities looks a little different in 2020 than in a typical year. The most prominent change is in standardized testing, which was canceled for Spring 2020. This decision prompted many colleges to waive the SAT and/or ACT requirements. Even though testing is expected to resume in the fall, social distancing and high demand for the exams will still make testing more stressful than normal. If you are still planning to sit for the exam, the Princeton Review suggests that you continue studying for at least 30 minutes a day (and you can also follow them on social media @theprincetonreview for some free practice questions).
Many top universities across the country are considering waiving the SAT requirement altogether. These tests are only part of a student’s application, but it’s also known that wealthier students are more likely to exceed at these exams because they have the financial means for prep courses. This inequality gap will only widen this year since many students won’t be able to risk their health to sit for the exam.
If you’re applying to college this year, or to a college that has since waived standardized testing requirements, how can you stand out on your college applications in the COVID-19 era (and beyond)?
