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University of Pittsburgh Announces Test-Optional Program Extension Through Fall 2023

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  • Pitt-Bradford

The University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Admissions and Financial Aid announced the test-optional policy for fall 2021 admission has been expanded to first-year applicants in all programs, majors, schools and colleges through fall 2023.

The Office of the Provost hopes that continuing to regard SAT and ACT tests as optional for applicants will ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to be considered for admission. Additionally, extending the policy will enable Pitt to study student success and college preparedness rates more deeply.

“We are committed to welcoming students of all backgrounds to our campuses so that they can access a high-quality college experience. No stars should be lost in the dark. By becoming test optional through 2023, we are not only responding to the challenges of the pandemic but also opening doors for students whose diverse talents and potential for leadership may not be well measured by standardized tests. Evaluating our students holistically continues to be central to our admissions approach,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Ann E. Cudd.

In April 2020 the Bradford, Greensburg and Johnstown campuses began offering the test-optional policy, which allows students to decide whether to include SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. The option was offered to 2021 applicants to the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences in July and implemented more broadly at the Pittsburgh campus in August.

“Implementation of Pitt’s test optional pilot program has eliminated a worrisome constraint for many students, as well as reduced the stress load on students and families for what has been and will continue to be—at least for the near future—an historically stressful college admission and selection process,” said Kellie Kane, associate vice provost for enrollment and executive director of admissions.

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