BOOK A FREE 30-MINUTE CONSULTATION

Since the advent of COVID, most universities have gone test-optional. Since this is a relatively recent phenomenon, it leaves many parents confused.

Many universities have purportedly remained test-optional to increase diversity. What universities may not share, is that they receive more applicants when they “go test-optional.” This is an advantage to two different types of universities. First, a university that is struggling financially (after losing millions of dollars due to closures in the spring of 2020) can secure students who may not otherwise apply, thus making them more financially secure. Second, a university that is borderline competitive will show a lower admittance rate due to more applicants, which will make them ostensibly more competitive. Also, if only students in the 50th percentile or higher submit scores, their average SAT and ACT score will increase. These two factors can boost their rankings on US News and World Report.

Parents should keep in mind that test optional does not mean test blind (universities that will not even look at scores— whether the score is 400 or 1600) and that a good score will always be more attractive to a test-optional universities. Admissions offices often assume that a student who does not submit scores did not do so because the scores were bad. When Covid hit, my alma mater, for example, admitted 92% more (That’s almost double!) students who applied with scores than without. Lastly, SAT and ACT scores are often tied to scholarship money. Not submitting scores could hurt a student’s chance of affording a given university. The best practice is to call the prospective university to see their admissions policy. You can book a free 30-minute consultation at www.ivymasters.com/ college-admissions-advising/ Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com 833-728-7228 www.ivymasters.com

Mayor Henry Message

Continued from page 3 community event for all our residents and families to enjoy. It is also a great opportunity to show your thanks and support for veterans and military person nel who have dedicated their lives for our country. If you or your organization or troop would like to march in the Memo rial Day Parade, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at x4999. arriving, this is also a great time to enjoy all the wonderful parks and programs the Township has to offer. The 2023 Summer Recreation Program Bro chure is available and includes another exciting line up of classes, programs and events for residents of all ages. derful Moms a Happy Mother’s Day, and for everyone to have a very healthy and enjoyable start to summer.

Registration for half day camp and all of our summer programming starts on May 10th at 6pm. For complete details, please visit our website at oldbridge.com.

Mayor Owen Henry