Northeastern University - Standardized Academic Tests Waived Off

In these uncertain times, students are unable to take standardized tests such as GRE, GMAT, MAT, SAT, or ACT. Many testing agencies like ETS have also closed down centers due to public health concerns. These concerns are also casting a shadow on the admissions for Fall 2021 with many students contemplating when the situation will improve. 

Considering the current situation, Northeastern University has decided to waive off standardized tests making them optional for the academic year 2021-2022. That is students can apply for the university with or without these tests. By making these tests optional, the university sure has eased the burden of the students. Although, students can submit these test scores voluntarily. This option is available for both students applying for undergraduate degrees and postgraduate degrees. However, prospective students who are not native English speakers are still required to submit their English Proficiency test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS. Students applying for postgraduate programs may also submit their academic credentials, professional experience, research, and scores for the GRE, GMAT or the Miller Analogies Test to enhance their profile. 

This raises the question of how the school will determine the value and worth of the applications. To answer this query, Sundar Kumarasamy, vice president of enrollment management at Northeastern University said, “We are confident that the move to test-optional will result in an applicant pool that still reflects the depth of students’ academic records, contributions to their communities, and full range of experiences. It will still allow us to shape a student body that is representative of diverse talents and experiences, as well as a great fit for Northeastern.”
Source - Northeastern waives standardized testing requirements for 2021-22 applicants 

In other news, taking stock of the situation, ETS had recently announced that it is rolling out Special Home Edition Tests for GRE and TOEFL. This means that students can take these tests at their homes. So, for students who wish to enhance their profile can register for the tests and send the scores to the designated schools. 

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