The Leg Up Newsletter

It is my sincere hope that this month's newsletter finds each and every reader safely in health during the current crisis. School years for all students have been upended, work and riding have ground to a halt, and we sit and wonder what will happen in the next 30-60-90 days. 

Colleges and universities are in a very similar situation and application requirements and timelines continue to shift as new information and policies come to light. Below is the most up-to-date information as of the current week.

Topics on the Table

Randi C. Heathman

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via The New York Times:

"As colleges and universities nationwide shift to online classes in an attempt to curtail the spread of the coronavirus, the usual spring break college tours have been upended.

Things are changing fast, so it’s important to check with individual colleges, but most prospective student visits, including events and overnights for admitted students, are off the table for now. With campuses closed, frustrated high school juniors face tour cancellations, and seniors won’t be able to set foot on most campuses to feel the vibe before their deposits are due on May 1, National College Decision Day.

Choosing a college can be a stressful decision any year, and the special circumstances this spring call for extra resilience. Parents can help their teenagers keep their perspective and stay levelheaded, weighing the pros and cons of the schools on their lists remotely. In addition to the usual factors like academic and social opportunities and financial aid offers, the public health crisis may make some families prioritize closeness to home.Following are some ways students can get creative to gather their information for college decisions while maintaining plenty of social distancing."read more>>

Via Patrick O'Connor, PhD:

"Last week, we provided a list of college ideas and updates to share with this year’s seniors. This week, we turn our attention to this year’s juniors. Not all of these will apply to all students, but here’s the list:

AP Testing 

Schools that offer AP classes already know this year’s test has gotten a haircut. The 3 hour, multi-part test goes to a 45 -minute session of free response questions only, and it’s all online, done in the comfort and safety of home.

The big question here is if colleges will still accept the same scores for the same level of college placement or credit, and the answer is: it depends on the college. Students should find the AP page of the college’s website to check. More important, students should ask themselves if a mid-range score on a shortened AP test really tells them they’re ready for a more advanced class in college—or will they be so busy doing homework, it would make more sense taking the intro class.

SAT and ACT Testing 

Yes, this was covered last week, but there are new issues to consider here. With April and May testing cancelled, juniors are looking to June to fulfill their testing needs. It’s possible June testing will go by the boards as well, leaving July and August in the summer testing calendar—and those seats are always hard to come by. SAT and ACT are trying to open more test centers for the summer, so keep an eye on the registration pages for more test center options."

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Clients' Corner

Juniors

VIRTUAL CAMPUS VISITS!

If you can't find a virtual campus visit program for the schools on your list, let me know.

ESSAY PLANNING!

The Common Application essay prompts won't change this year - prepare to discuss your thoughts at your next meeting.

Seniors

DECISION TIME!

If your schools have given you more time to make a final decision and you need it, USE IT. Schedule a meeting with me if needed.

FINANCIAL AID CHANGES!

Has your financial aid situation changed as a result of COVID-19? Let me know!