Fordham announced their decision to extend the university’s test-optional policy through the 2025 admissions cycle on Sept. 6. This comes after Fordham initially implemented a test-optional admissions policy during the 2020-21 admissions cycle, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on education. After an initial two-year pilot program, the university decided to once again extend the policy for an additional year in May 2022. Fordham is not alone in offering test-optional admissions for their undergraduate students. Currently, in the New York area, NYU, Columbia, St. John’s and the State University of New York system all offer test-optional admissions at least through this year, with some moving to a permanent test-optional program.
According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing (FairTest), for the 2024 admissions cycle, over 2,000 schools will be either test-optional or test-free entirely. FairTest has also studied the correlation between test scores and financial aid.
While some schools have eliminated testing requirements for admissions, some continue to have those requirements for some financial aid programs. In a report by FairTest, they stated, “Despite changes in admissions policies, using test scores as gatekeepers for grant aid neutralizes any real access to college for many low income students.”
John Buckley, Fordham’s vice president for enrollment, explained why the test-optional policy was extended at Fordham.
“As test submission is only one part of an admission application, it is a factor that needs to be analyzed in the context of other factors associated with the pandemic (such as remote learning, etc.). We believe in the value of the test-optional policy but want to gather additional data to help us more fully understand its impact,” said Buckley.
Buckley added: “Testing was only employed in relation to grades, trends and rigor. One element that has become increasingly important in our review has been the challenge of the academic program taken within the context of the applicant’s high school.”
Buckley explained that there is no test-optional policy yet that has been confirmed past the 2025 admissions cycle. “These options are possibilities as we continue to analyze data, adjust our assessment practices and assess next steps,” said Buckley.
“I think it’s great, puts more focus on who the applicants are rather than their test scores,” said Nico Naguiat, FCRH ’27.
It remains unclear if there will be a policy shift beyond 2025, but the current policy is in line with most universities across the country.
