College and Performing Arts School Admissions: What’s New for Fall 2021?

What a year! The Covid-19 pandemic no doubt upended the 2020-2021 the college admissions process. Here are some of the major takeaways from last year and what to expect for the upcoming cycle for Fall 2022 admissions.

1.      Testing, testing, testing? The pivot to test optional

Because testing centers closed during the pandemic, many students were unable to take the ACT or the SAT. In response, colleges and universities were forced to go test optional, including nearly all state universities, many liberal arts schools, and all the Ivies. In addition to lacking test scores, applicants did not have grades, extracurricular activities, sports, and service activities to complete their profile. 

This unexpected “experiment” resulted in some interesting shifts that may continue into the future. Firstly, many more students applied to colleges because of the test optional policy. This made college acceptances, especially to highly selective schools, even more competitive than in previous years. 

Secondly, test scores definitely decreased in importance and will probably stay that way going forward. Since we’re not at the end of the pandemic, some schools have extended the test optional policy for another year, some for several years; and others have gone full in to become test-blind (that is, no one submits test scores) 

More than two-thirds (1600 +) of 4-year colleges and universities went test optional or test blind for Fall 2022 applicants. See the full list on the Fairtest website which is frequently updated.

2.     More representation for the underrepresented

One of the silver linings of the test optional policy is the increase in applicants from underrepresented students – mainly students from low income, minority, and/or first-generation populations. In the pre-Covid past, students attending high schools with more resources have often had an unfair edge in selective college admissions. The shift to test optional has certainly leveled the playing field a bit.

In light of the heightened awareness of racial and social injustice, brought about by a multitude of factors and events, many highly selective colleges sought to build a class that better represented a microcosm of our diverse society. Even so, college enrollment decreased 5% this past year, most significantly among community colleges. 

The Common App stepped up and made important changes making the application process more accessible. For example, the Common App for mobile was launched to reach those who do not have access to technology and a new essay prompt was added that addresses kindness and gratitude. 

It remains to be seen whether students hardest hit by the pandemic will get back on the track to higher education, but the pandemic and social issues certainly pushed the process towards change.

3.     Shifting the focus of the holistic admissions process

Without the usual evaluation criteria -- test scores, grades, extracurricular activities, campus visits -- admissions committees had to focus on other components of the application, looking particularly at the student’s character as exhibited by their passions, perseverance and resilience. 

The Common App also offered a central space in the “additional information” section for students to address the impact of Covid-19. This optional question addresses the impact of Covid-19 on the student’s life such as illness and loss, housing and employment, and shifting family obligations. 

4.      How about the performing arts? 

Most performing arts schools are returning to in-person auditions in the spring 2022. Depending on the trajectory of the Covid situation, schools are being cautiously optimistic at this time.  Schools are also giving applicants an option to audition online if they are unable to travel.  

More than ever during the pandemic, the arts became “food for the soul” as we sought to connect with others through virtual performances from our living rooms. I have been so impressed and inspired by high school students who continued to learn, practice their instruments, mentor younger students, and perform outside and/or virtually during this challenging time. 

If your path is in the performing arts, keep moving forward and make sure to check the websites of the schools on your list as the situation remains fluid.