Rowan Adopts Test-Optional Admissions Policy Amid Coronavirus

GLASSBORO, NJ — With the outbreak of the coronavirus, it was difficult for high school students across the country to take the SAT or ACT exams in the spring.

With many students being unable to take the exams, Rowan University has decided to adopt a test-optional admissions policy for 2021, the university announced this week.

“Many students and families face challenges due to the pandemic and this policy will alleviate some of the stress involved with the college application process,” Rowan University Senior Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Jeffrey Hand said.

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Going with a test-optional admissions policy means Rowan will rely on other means such as high school grades, activities and essays, more heavily in the admissions process. Rowan has had a test-optional admissions policy for several years, but it has been limited by major and required a minimum 3.5 high school GPA, according to university officials.

“While Rowan has always taken a holistic approach to applicant evaluation, more emphasis will now be placed on transcripts, curriculum, GPA, recommendations, essays, activities and leadership,” Hand said.

There are exceptions to this decision, including students seeking admission to Rowan’s 3+4 medical program through Cooper Medical School of Rowan University or the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine; homeschooled students; and students applying for admission with a GED.

Rowan is not alone in making this decision. Many top colleges and universities, including Yale, Brown, Cornell and Harvard announced in recent weeks a decision to suspend, for one year at least, the requirement for prospective undergraduate students to submit the standardized test scores due to challenges in scheduling for them.

According to the university, the SAT and ACT tests have been falling out of favor with admissions officers nationwide for years, with many believing that high school transcript, GPA and curriculum provide a better assessment of future success.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know