August 9, 2021 By Ani

Test-Optional Admissions

For the admissions cycle 2020-21 more than 1,600 4-year colleges and universities announced Test-Optional policies. Colleges made decisions without standardized (SAT or ACT) test scores if the students were unable to submit their test scores. Some colleges had also announced that they will be extending their Test-Optional policies for the 2021-22 admissions cycle. For rising seniors, two-thirds of four year colleges, including highly selective institutions will remain test-optional and will not require a test score for fall 2022 admissions. See the update here: https://bit.ly/3s0jAPm .

Here are 4 tips for High School Juniors and Seniors:

1- understand each college’s testing policies regarding ACT/SAT and verify deadlines

2- engage with college admissions officers through colleges’ virtual events

3- develop a well-balanced college list

4- find out about each college’s current policies regarding AP or IB credits

Here at College Gates Advising, we can help you craft a great application to stand out.
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As my college counselor, you were very warm and easy to talk to and made me feel supported not only with my applications, but also emotionally/mentally as I underwent this process.”

~ Student, NYU, Class of 2027
Thanks for all your help throughout this process. Your knowledge of colleges helped me solidify my list. I was thrilled to receive nine acceptances to engineering programs out of ten applications. Thank you! I would not have been able to do it without your guidance.”

~ Student Boston University Class of 2026
My son found it very easy to work with your calm, patient and warm disposition. You helped us understand the value of in-depth research in the college search process in order to find the best-fit institution. It was great working with you and we appreciate your honesty.”

~ Parent Class of 2022, Lexington High School
Thank you, Ani for helping me stay on top of my applications! Thanks also for all the tips for transitioning to college. I missed working with you!”

~ Student, BU Class of 2023, Lexington, MA
Ani Helped my daughter with college planning that included high school academics and extracurricular activities. She was encouraging and very thorough in answering our questions. My daughter was admitted to all her top choice colleges including one with a full scholarship. We are thrilled and grateful.”

~ Parent, HS Class of 2021, Worcester, MA
I consulted Ani on several occasions regarding post-graduation gap year options for my son, who had just graduated with a BS in Chemical Biology from UC Berkeley and wanted to take a year off before applying to medical school. Her advice was well-thought out, succinct and invaluable as she offered multiple options moving forward. Ani's experienced approach in empowering my son made him feel like he was in charge of the entire decision making process.”

~ Parent, Philip A.
Overall, I had a great experience and seamless interaction with Ani. I got her advice, as well as clarifications regarding the interpretation of foreign credentials for 2 international students who applied to Tufts last year. Ani’s expertise allowed me and my department to better understand the students’ previous knowledge and background in related coursework.”

~ Visiting Professor, Ara P.