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US Universities go test-optional as SAT/ ACT get cancelled due to coronavirus COVID-19
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US Universities go test-optional as SAT/ ACT get cancelled due to coronavirus COVID-19

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Rahul Singha
Updated on Sep 18, 2020 07:21 IST

As the title suggests, many universities abroad are going test-optional as SAT/ ACT are being canceled. What it means for students and whether this arrangement is here to stay? Read on to have all your questions answered.

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Universities in the US have called off their SAT/ACT eligibility criteria and gone test-optional as the world fights a failing battle against the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. While most bachelor programs in the US require students to appear or their SAT or ACT, however this time around given the current situation, US Universities are going test-optional for the academic year starting 2021.

While universities like the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), University of California, Tufts University and Davidson College have put in place this arrangement for the next three years, some universities such as the University of Oregon and Oregon State University have permanently gone test-optional. However, many universities plan to go back to the earlier format once the current situation is history.

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While US Universities going test-optional is likely to increase the number of applicants, however, this would also mean more applicants competing for university seats. Hence, candidates are required to apply early to universities to book their admission slots. Students can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counselors for more on the same.








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List of Universities and Colleges that have temporarily waived off SAT/ACT requirements due to COVID-19

Here is a list of universities and colleges that have temporarily waived off SAT/ACT requirements for study abroad admissions 2020 due to coronavirus COVID-19. (we will be updating this list as more colleges follow suit.)







*the list of universities/colleges have been sourced from fairtest.org

What is SAT?

SAT is a standardized test administered by the College Board and is required to be taken by students seeking admission to undergraduate schools. The full form of SAT is the Scholastic Assessment Test, which was earlier known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test. SAT exam has been developed to evaluate the written, verbal and mathematical skills of the candidates. Applicants aspire to pursue undergraduate courses, particularly in the US and Canada, are required to take the SAT exam.

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What is ACT?

The ACT is administered by the ACT, Incorporated. ACT full form is American College Testing. It is a standardized test that is required to be taken by students looking for admission in undergraduate schools based in the US and Canada. The ACT exam has been developed to evaluate the written, mathematical, verbal and scientific skills of the candidates.

Q:   What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?

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The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.

Q:   What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?

A:

There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.

Q:   Is it hard to get into the UTSA in San Antonio Texas?

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According to various sources, University of Texas San Antonio has an overall acceptance rate of around 87% which makes it somewhat selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to be considered for admission are given as follows:

Q:   Is University of North Dakota good for Indian students?

A:

The University of North Dakota is one of the top choices for international students to pursue their higher education. The UND warmly welcomes its international students as they have contributed a lot to the success of the university. Moreover, the university offers a top-notch environment, the best academic opportunities, technical & career training, etc. The university boasts over 1000 international students who represent more than 95 countries. Additionally, international students highly enjoy the facilities provided by the University of North Dakota. The UND is one of the largest research universities in the United States for international students.

Q:   How much is the application fee for Alabama University?

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The Alabama University application fee for International students vary by application type. Mentioned below are the application fee for UG and PG applications at Alabama:

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Q:   Can I get into Oregon State with a 3.5 GPA?

A:

International students must have at least a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission at Oregon State. Therefore, candidates are eligible to get admission to the university with a 3.5 GPA in their academics. Oregon State University GPA requirements are different for undergraduate and graduate admission. Mentioned below is the range of GPA required for Oregon State University admissions:

ProgramMinimum GPA Required (on a scale of 4.0)
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Read about the Grading System in the USA

Q:   What is Northwest Missouri acceptance rate?

A:

The Northwest Missouri acceptance rate for international students is around 80%. This shows that the university follows a moderate selection criteria when it comes to admission. However, the moderate selection criteria does not imply that the university accepts every application. International students must showcase their excellent academic performance, score high GPA, submit standardized test scores and English language proficiency test scores. In addition, if a student has a history of participation in relevant extracurricular or experience, their selection probability increases by 50%.

Q:   What GPA do I need to get into Northwest Missouri state?

A:

Northwest Missouri State University expects a cumulative GPA of 2 for UG programs and 3 for PG programs on a scale of 4. GPA is one of the top factors when considering students for university admissions. Along with GPA, the university expects a student to provide high school transcripts from previously attended university or school, standardized test scores, English language proficiency test scores, and more. In addition, students with relevant experience in the chosen field are preferred over the studious students.

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