As SAT and ACT testing sites are closed by the coronavirus, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania is waiving its SAT/ACT test requirement for fall 2020 admissions.
Applicants can choose to submit test scores if they have them, but a lack of test scores will not impact admissions evaluations, said the university, which is part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
“During these challenging times, we want to make sure that all qualified applicants to Mansfield University have an equal opportunity for admission consideration,” President Charles Patterson said in a statement.
“Students should not be disadvantaged by their inability to take the SAT or ACT due to testing site closures,” Patterson added.
The waiver applies to both domestic and international students.
More from UB: Coronavirus now canceling commencement ceremonies
The ACT has postponed its national test date from April 4 to June 13.
The College Board has canceled the May 2 SAT though not the June 6 test.
Coronavirus complicates fall enrollment
This spring, the COVID-19 outbreak could cause more graduating high school seniors to choose a more affordable college or university closer to home, an expert told CNBC.
The Princeton Review estimates that approximately 70% students will stay within 180 miles (about three hours) from home to attend college, according to CNBC.
“When students and parents are nervous, they are going to make different decisions,” Robert Franek, The Princeton Review’s editor-in-chief, told CNBC. “With the COVID-19 virus in circulation, students are even more likely to stay home.”
More from UB: How to prep faculty for e-learning during coronavirus closures
Concern is mounting among higher ed leaders over next fall’s enrollment, according to a survey being conducted by EAB, an educational services company.
More than a third of respondents are already experiencing a decline in visit requests while a large majority, 87%, expect requests will decline, according to EAB.
To compensate, enrollment leaders are hosting video conferences, promoting and creating virtual tours, and adding live social media events, EAB said.
