Exam requirements for acceptance into graduate programs are temporarily being waived because of limitations from the COVID-19 outbreak, Auburn University announced on Friday afternoon.

Neither the Graduate Record Examinations nor the Graduate Management Admission Test will be required for most Auburn graduate programs during summer 2020, fall 2020 and spring 2021, according to the University.

"We are seeking to simplify the graduate application process to support prospective students hoping to pursue a graduate degree at Auburn, but who cannot sit for the GRE and the GMAT due to the test center closures and travel restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak," said George Flowers, dean of the graduate school.

Students who have already taken the GRE or GMAT may include their scores in their application to graduate school, as well as those who are still able to take the exams.

"As the COVID-19 situation develops in the coming months, individual programs may elect to reinstitute test score requirements," the University said.

In the meantime, the University stated graduate admissions officers will make decisions based on "academic credentials and accomplishments" through comprehensive reviews. For international students, alternate means of testing language fluency will be provided online on the graduate school's website.

The University acknowledged that waivers are given on a departmental basis, and some programs will require exams because of federal or accreditation guidelines.

Students with questions about specific program details are encouraged to email the graduate school admissions office at gradadm@auburn.edu for information about deadlines and necessary documentation.