LA GRANDE — While the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the closure of Oregon’s public universities, little has changed for Eastern Oregon University when it comes to admissions.

“Admissions requirements have only shifted to accept unofficial, rather than official, transcripts,” EOU’s director of admissions, Genesis Meaderds, said. “This small change will allow students to apply and be admitted even while their high schools or community colleges are closed and ensure they are not delayed admission if they cannot obtain their official transcripts.”

The tests commonly used for the admission process, such as the SAT, have been canceled. But Eastern has been a test-optional institution for years. Meaderds said making those test scores optional allows better access for a larger variety of students from different locations and circumstances.

Advanced Placement exams still will occur, but the format has been changed for online testing. According to the College Board, which administers the test, 91% of students did not want the test canceled. By holding the tests, students can continue to receive college credit for the advanced level classes they took this year.

“We really like to look at the whole student when it comes to admissions — their coursework, involvement in the community and at school as well as their GPA,” Meaderds said.

The application process otherwise remains the same, and Eastern’s admissions office is offering guidance remotely to help students and parents. The university also has virtual campus visits that gives a tour of the facilities.

EOU held its first virtual preview day April 18, and 300 participants from all over the world spent a half day online with students and faculty, exploring and learning about the campus and opportunities at the college.

“This was the most rewarding admissions event I’ve ever been a part of,” Meaderds said. “It went really well, and the student engagement was incredible.”

Lacy Karpilo, vice president of student affairs, said there is no concern for students being ill prepared for college courses and life.

“These students have attended public school for 12½ years prior to March,” Karpilo said. “High school seniors and their parents should know that EOU is doing all we can to make sure they succeed. We don’t want to penalize students for missing the very end of 13 years of education.”

EOU has not yet made a decision when to reopen the campus. Karpilo said the university will continue to follow government and public health agency recommendations.

“We know that many students and families in our region may be rethinking their plans for the fall and considering staying closer to home,” Karpilo said. “Out here, social distancing happens naturally. Many of our students are already from rural places where they’re accustomed to reaching across wide-open spaces to build tight-knit communities, and students who gravitate to places like La Grande and Eastern Oregon come to love it here.”