YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Youngstown State University officials have announced that due to the coronavirus cancellation of national ACT and SAT test sessions, the university has implemented a "test-optional" decision process for admission.

The new process means that incoming students, who usually need to submit ACT or SAT standardized test scores to be evaluated for admission to YSU, are not required to do so starting Fall Semester 2020.

The change, approved by the YSU Academic Senate earlier this month, will remain in place through Spring Semester 2021.

However, university officials emphasized in a news release that admission to the university may not mean applicants will directly be admitted into an academic program.

The new policy was put in place by YSU to ease the burden on new incoming students during the coronavirus pandemic because ACT and SAT testing has been canceled, leaving students unable to take the exams. Several universities across the nation have taken similar action.

"The coronavirus has significantly disrupted the college enrollment processes for our prospective students and for high school graduates throughout the region," said Elaine Ruse, executive director of Student Enrollment Services. "This change will ease the stress many students are feeling and simplify the admissions process for them."

For additional information, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.