TCU says standardized tests ‘optional’ for high school juniors applying in fall 2021
TCU is joining a number of universities that is making standardized testing requirements optional for the high school class of 2021.
ACT and SAT spring test dates have been canceled across the country amid the coronavirus pandemic. That prompted TCU to go to a “test-optional” format.
“We understand the uncertainties high school juniors are currently facing,” said Heath Einstein, TCU’s dean of admission, in a news release. “TCU wants to do what we can to reduce some of the anxiety, so that students may focus on their safety and successfully shift to a new educational modality.
“TCU has never relied solely on one factor in admission decisions, and that will be reinforced while we are suspending the testing requirement.”
TCU is still requiring international students whose native language is not English to take TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or Duolingo.
Students are still able to submit standardized testing scores, although those who opt not to will not be adversely impacted. Students who choose not to submit test scores will still be considered for academic scholarships as well.
As far as students from high schools that have gone to a pass/no credit policy for final grades such as Fort Worth’s public schools, TCU will focus its academic review on “curricular choices and narrative accounts provided by teachers and counselors.”
This story was originally published April 2, 2020 at 6:02 PM with the headline "TCU says standardized tests ‘optional’ for high school juniors applying in fall 2021."
