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@Meggy
1 answer, 54 votes
 • 3 years ago •
Admissions Advice

Test-Optional
Answered

I am applying to Duke, Yale, and Harvard test-optional. My state has no SAT centers and our sister state where we usually write them is on lockdown. Any thoughts and advice?

internationalstudent
test-optional
1
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Accepted Answer
@CameronBameron
2,281 answers, 8,531 votes
 • 3 years ago

I wouldn't stress about it. Just make sure you indicate in the add'l information section that although you fully intended to take either the SAT or ACT, you couldn't because in India (or the country you live in) all the test centers were closed because of COVID-19. Perhaps less than 5% of your peers from your country are submitting test scores, so colleges are fully aware of the problem. Nevertheless, you should remind them of the mitigating circumstances on the Common application when you apply.

Good luck.

2
-2
@Jbean06
85 answers, 14 votes
 • 3 years ago

That is very unfortunate. While an SAT score is only one piece of the puzzle, it is a big piece, especially for top-tier schools. You do have options, however. The first thing I would do is look for a place that does the ACT. The ACT will do as a viable and accepted substitute for the SAT. Another thing I'd suggest would be to take AP exams. In addition to boosting your WGPA, this will also increase your course rigor. Good luck, hope this helps.

-2
[🎤 AUTHOR]@Meggy3 years ago

ACT/SAT Centres are run the same in my state. And we don't do AP subjects in my country. Do I really have no hope of getting to a top school?

@Jbean063 years ago

Certainly not. And at their core, AP subjects are college classes taken in high school, so if there is a community college near you then you could enroll in a few courses there. And there must be someplace where you can find AP/IB classes to take, either online or in-person. My advice is to keep looking and to try to raise your GPA by staying diligent in your studies.

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