By J. Jala | 08:49 PM November 10, 2020
The University of the Philippines (UP) on Tuesday said there will be no UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) for the academic year 2021-2022 due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
“University Councils unanimously voted not to administer the UPCAT in light of logistical issues in the paper-and-pencil testing of about 100,000 17-year old applicants,” the state university said.
“Taking into account the uncertain trajectory and uneven spread of COVID-19 in different parts of the Philippines,” it added.
The UP Office of Admission said it is “currently modifying the freshmen admissions system” for the next intake year.
The UPCAT is one of the country’s most competitive college admission exams and known to draw over a hundred thousand aspiring students every year.
Other universities such as Ateneo de Manila University and University of Santo Tomas earlier announced that they are suspending their own annual college entrance examinations for AY 2021-2022.