Will Cornell Remain Test-Optional For 2022 Admissions?
The COVID-19 pandemic has led many universities to institute temporary (or, in some cases, permanent) test-optional admission policies. During the last admissions cycle, test-optional schools included all of the Ivy League universities, most large public universities, and many small liberal arts colleges.
Recently, Cornell University has decided to extend its test-optional policy for fall 2022, 2023, and 2024 first-time applicants. The Ithaca, New York college’s undergraduate admissions office states that “in extending the existing policies to the high school graduating classes of 2023 and 2024, Cornell recognizes the continuing risks of COVID-19 transmission during in-person testing around the world. At the same time, the university is entering a two-year period of deliberate experimental review to guide admission testing policy requirements beyond these two years.” Concerning prospective student-athlete applicants, Cornell has suspended testing requirements for the 2021-2022 academic year and has not determined requirements for future years.
The university, via their website, states that applicants who are not submitting test results might more often be asked, after application reviews have begun, for additional evidence of continuing preparation. Cornell’s admissions office will be looking at several other factors when reviewing applications that do not have SAT or ACT scores, such as:
challenging courses and excellent grades in each secondary school (high school) context. Note: there will be no negative interpretation for schools and students who have had only pass/fail or similar grading options during this current term;
evidence of commitment and effort to pursuing other challenging learning experiences;
results from other kinds of secondary, college-preparatory, and university-qualifying testing where available and verifiable;
care, craft, and authenticity in their writing submissions;
and wherever practical and available, details, insight, and analysis from secondary school counselors and teachers.
As a result of SAT or ACT scores not being required for upcoming admissions cycles, students must be sure that their application to Cornell has strong supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation, a compelling essay, and a robust list of extracurriculars. Ivy Link’s college admission advising is available to give your student a leg up on the competition. Our experts will work one-on-one with your student to build a compelling academic and extracurricular profile, starting as early as 8th or 9th grade. We also help 12th graders to complete their applications, including reviewing and fine-tuning their main personal statements, supplements, and activities lists. Application deadlines are coming up fast! Contact our expert advisors today.
