Dear GFA Families,
We are entering an exciting and busy season in the college admissions and assessment process. Those of us in the College Guidance Office are aware that information and conjecture about how the COVID-19 might affect admissions have likely made its way to you. In an effort to keep you informed, we wanted to provide some updates as you embark on these important next steps in an evolving landscape.
Visits to colleges and universities this spring
Spring break has long been an ideal time for GFA families to visit prospective schools. We encourage those of you planning travel to consult both the CDC and government resources and updates from the individual college or university regarding their visit programs.
Depending on their location, each college and university has developed its own mode of keeping visitors informed, including emails, press releases, and updates on their websites. Some schools have already moved classes to online instruction, and many have canceled events for admitted students this spring. We encourage you to contact each school directly as you prepare for campus visits.
Standardized test-taking
As you likely know, GFA students take the SAT and ACT standardized tests at locations across the region. Wilton High School has announced that it will not administer the SAT on Saturday, March 14, and has advised students who registered will receive information from College Board via mail or email about options for where and when they can take the SAT. We will monitor any updates for tests throughout the spring and we encourage you to actively watch for emails from the College Board or ACT announcing any potential changes. Testing companies, colleges, and universities recognize the unprecedented nature of the rapidly evolving COVID-19 landscape and we can expect to learn more about alternative measures in the weeks ahead. As we learn more, we will keep you apprised.
How can I show interest if visits are limited?
With respect to concerns about "demonstrated interest" and interviews, we expect that colleges and universities will be reasonable due to the given climate. While institutions that are known to track students' demonstrated interest as a part of the admissions process have not abandoned it, we do not expect students to be penalized for being cautious if the COVID-19 outbreak alters their plans.
The GFA College Guidance Office is here to work in partnership as we navigate this new reality together. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or my colleagues, Rachel, David, and Jen, with any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Michael Pina
Director of College Guidance