How to Understand College Acceptance Rates

When students and families begin the college admissions process, one of the first numbers they look for is a school’s acceptance rate. 

At first glance, this percentage can seem like a reflection of your chances of getting into a particular college. For example, if a college has a 10% acceptance rate, does that mean you have a 10% chance of being admitted? Not exactly. 

The acceptance rate is a piece of the puzzle, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Different factors can influence acceptance rates, which can create a misleading impression of your chances of admission. That’s why we want to help you understand the factors that impact college acceptance rates.

This guide will break down what goes into a college’s acceptance rate and how to understand what that number really means.

Deadlines: Early Decision vs. Early Action vs. Regular Decision

One major factor that can influence a college's acceptance rate is the type of deadline a student chooses. Many colleges offer multiple options: Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), and/or Regular Decision (RD). Each of these pathways can have different acceptance rates, often dramatically so.

Early Decision (ED): This is a binding application deadline, meaning that if you’re admitted, you must attend the school. ED applicants often see higher acceptance rates than those who apply Regular Decision because colleges know these students are committed to enroll. As a reminder, not all colleges offer an Early Decision deadline.

Early Action (EA): Unlike ED, Early Action is not binding. Students apply early and receive their admissions decision sooner, but they are not required to attend if admitted. The acceptance rate for EA is often slightly higher than RD but lower than ED, depending on the school. As a reminder not all colleges offer an Early Action deadline.

Regular Decision (RD): This is the most common application cycle (though fall deadlines are becoming more and more popular each year). RD applicants can end up facing more competition since this is often—but not always—the largest pool of applicants for a college. 

Some colleges are very transparent and report the acceptance rate breakdown across deadline types, but many colleges do not make this information publicly available. This can make it difficult for families to see how individual deadlines impact an overall acceptance rate. 

One of our favorite resources to understand how deadlines and acceptance rates comes from Big J Educational Consulting. They provide charts for many colleges that report this data, and they update them each year! 

Deadlines Part 2: Percentage of Class Filled Through Early Deadlines

Another important element to consider is how much of a college’s incoming class is filled through fall deadlines like Early Decision or Early Action. Many schools, especially highly selective ones, fill a large portion of their freshman class during the early rounds. 

Some schools may admit as much as 50-60% of their incoming class through Early Decision, leaving fewer spots available for Regular Decision applicants.

This impacts the overall acceptance rate because the more seats that are filled early, the fewer seats are left for later deadlines. This can make other deadlines, like Regular Decison, all the more competitive. For example, if a college admits 50% of its class through ED, the acceptance rate for RD applicants will be much lower, as more students are competing for far fewer spots. 

Understanding how a school uses its early rounds can help you better interpret what the acceptance rate really means for your chances.

Residency: In-State vs. Out-of-State at Public Universities

For public universities, residency plays a significant role in acceptance rates. Public institutions typically prioritize in-state students, offering them lower tuition and higher acceptance rates. Out-of-state students, on the other hand, often face more competition for fewer available spots.

For example, a public university might have an overall acceptance rate of 30%, but when broken down by residency, in-state students might have a 40% acceptance rate while out-of-state applicants see rates closer to 15%. 

Some states also have a requirement that a certain percentage of their incoming class consist of in-state students. For example, for North Carolina public institutions, state law requires that at least 82% of each year's admitted class are residents of North Carolina.

If you’re applying to a public university as an out-of-state student, it’s important to recognize that your actual chances may be different than the overall acceptance rate suggests.

Impacted Majors: Acceptance Rates by Major

It’s also important to recognize that not all majors have the same acceptance rate in the admissions process if a college admits by major. When colleges consider a student’s intended major as part of the admissions process, some majors are “impacted,” meaning they have more applicants than available spots. Impacted majors often have significantly lower acceptance rates than less popular programs.

For example, engineering, computer science, business, and nursing are commonly impacted majors at many universities. If you’re applying to one of these fields, you may face steeper competition than students applying to other programs, even at the same college. The overall acceptance rate might be 50%, but if you’re applying to an impacted major, your chances could be closer to 30%.

Researching how competitive your intended major is at a specific school can give you a more accurate picture of your chances of admission. It’s also worth considering other potential majors if you’re open to multiple academic interests.

Institutional Priorities

Colleges often have specific institutional priorities (IP), or unique goals for admissions, that can influence their admissions decisions in ways that aren’t immediately obvious from the acceptance rate. Admissions offices may prioritize certain groups of students, such as:

• Legacy applicants

• Recruited athletes

• Underrepresented groups (such as first-generation college students or students from underrepresented regions)

• Students applying to particular majors or programs that have been named institutional priorities

These students may have higher acceptance rates, which can affect the overall rate for other applicants. 

Most colleges, unfortunately, do not make all of their institutional priorities public knowledge. It’s one of the factors of admission students cannot control. However, referencing a college’s Common Data Set (Google College Name + Common Data Set) and reviewing the chart found in section C7 can help you understand what factors are considered in a college’s admissions decision.

Below, you can see some of the institutional priorities considered by Georgia Tech. While this is not a complete representation of the college’s IPs, you can see that the college does consider talent/ability, first-generation status, and residency in the admissions process but does not consider legacy status.

Chart C7 from Georgia Tech’s Common Data Set 2023-2024

Action Steps

Now that you know the factors influencing acceptance rates, how can you use this information to improve your college admissions strategy? Here’s what you can do:

Research Your Schools: Look beyond the overall acceptance rate. Check for information on Early Decision vs. Regular Decision rates, residency breakdowns, and how your intended major is impacted at each college. Understanding these details can help you apply strategically and make sure you have a balanced college list.

Understand The Numbers: Pay attention to how much of the class is admitted through ED or EA. If a school fills half of its class early, consider whether you’re a good candidate for early deadlines, especially if that’s your top choice.

Learn What You Can About Institutional Priorities: Try to understand a college’s specific priorities. If you’re a legacy student or an athlete, your chances might be higher, but if you’re applying as an out-of-state applicant to a state school, know that your chances might be lower.

Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about how certain factors may influence your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions offices for clarification. Many colleges are transparent about their admissions process and are happy to provide information on how different variables impact acceptance rates.

Understanding College Alternative Start Options

When thinking about the start of college, most people imagine a traditional fall start: moving onto campus with other freshmen and diving straight into the academic and social life of college. However, this path may not be the best fit for all students. 

Fortunately, many colleges have other options! Alternative starts can provide flexibility and opportunities hat meet a student’s individual needs. A lot of the time, these alternative options aren’t widely known. Many students first learn about them when answering questions in the college application. 

We get a lot of questions about these alternative start programs. What are they? How many students participate? How are these students supported? Is it easier to be admitted through one of these programs? 

Let’s explore the answers to these questions and discuss how these alternatives might lead students to the perfect start for their college experience.

Why Consider Alternative Start Options?

Before diving into the specific alternative start options, it’s important to understand why these might be worth considering.

College Readiness: Not every student is ready to jump into college life right after high school. Alternative start options allow you to align your college start with when you feel most prepared.

Flexibility and Customization: These options can offer a more customized college experience. Whether you need a little more time before starting classes or prefer to ease into college life with a smaller cohort, there’s likely an option that suits your needs.

Increased Chance of Admission: Some alternative start options have a higher overall acceptance rate than a traditional fall start. These programs can sometimes be a strategic way to eventually graduate from your desired school. This is not the case at every college, so speak with admissions offices to understand how each college’s options work.

Now, let’s explore some of the most common alternative start options available to students.

Spring Start Programs

A spring start program allows students to begin college in January at the beginning of spring semester instead of the traditional fall start. 

This option is typically offered by colleges to support students who may need extra time before starting their studies. It’s also common at larger universities that receive more applications than they can accommodate in the fall. They know how many college seniors are intending to graduate in December, so they can open up more space for students beginning in January.

Why Consider It?

Extra Preparation Time: A spring start can give students a few more months to prepare academically before beginning college. This can be particularly helpful for students who don’t yet feel college-ready.

Smaller Cohort: Starting in the spring often means joining a smaller group of students, which can ease the transition to college life. You might find it easier to make connections and receive more individualized attention.

A Way to Attend Your Dream School: If you were waitlisted or didn’t get accepted for a fall start, some colleges may offer you a spring start instead. This can be a great way to attend your preferred college without having to transfer.

Summer Start Programs

Summer start programs allow students to begin their college education during the summer after they graduate from high school. Sometimes, this is through a specific program, often called a bridge program, to help ensure students are prepared for the academic demands of college.

Why Consider It?

Ease into College: Summers are usually quieter on campus, with fewer students and distractions. This can be a great way to adjust to college life.

Spread Out Academic Load: Starting in the summer can help students spread their coursework more evenly across the first year of college, reducing stress during the fall and spring semesters.

Beginning on Another Campus

Some university systems allow students to start their education on a different campus within the system or at a partner institution before transferring to the main campus after one or more semesters.

Examples of this type of alternative start include beginning at a partner community college and  beginning on a separate college campus affiliated with the university (like Emory’s Oxford campus or Northeastern’s Oakland and NYC campuses). Some colleges even have affiliated campuses in other countries where students begin their college experience abroad.

Why Consider It?

Cost Savings: Sometimes, starting at a different campus or partner institution can be more affordable, especially if it’s a community college or a smaller regional campus.

Personalized Environment: A smaller or less populated campus might offer a more supportive and personalized educational experience, which can be beneficial during your first year.

Gap Year or Semester Programs

A gap year or semester allows students to take time off between high school and college. Some colleges even offer structured programs or guaranteed admission for students who defer their start date.

Some colleges also offer programs that let students defer their starting semester but still guarantee their admission. There is often a condition that students participate in a structured gap year program that might involve community service or internships.

Why Consider It?

Life Experience: A gap year or semester can be an opportunity to gain valuable life experience through travel, work, or volunteering. This time can help students grow, mature, and clarify their academic and career goals.

Online or Hybrid Start Options

Some colleges offer the option to begin your studies online or through a hybrid format (a combination of online and in-person classes) before transitioning fully to campus-based learning.

Why Consider It?

Flexibility: Online or hybrid start options offer the flexibility to manage other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities, while beginning your college education.

Cost-Effective: By staying home and taking classes online, you can save on room and board expenses during your first semester or year of college.

Why Students May Not Want to Consider an Alternative Start

While alternative start options can offer flexibility and unique opportunities for students, they may not be the best choice for you. Here’s why you might decide to stick with a traditional fall start:

Social Fit: Starting college in the fall means beginning with the largest cohort of new students. Colleges typically plan different ways for new students to get involved quickly during the fall. A traditional fall start can make it easier to form friendships, join clubs, and get involved in campus life. 

If things like going to football games and joining Greek life are part of your ideal college experience, programs with a later start may mean waiting waiting an additional year for these experiences.

Campus Resources: Similarly, some resources and programs, like freshman orientation, living-learning communities, and certain academic advising services, are specifically tailored for fall-start students. Starting at an alternative time might mean missing out on these structured support systems that are designed to help new students adjust to college life.

If you are considering an alternative start, make sure to ask the college how they support these students when they integrate into the rest of campus. 

Course Availability: Depending on your chosen major or the college’s course schedule, it may be difficult to get your required classes right away through an alternative start program. If a class is only offered during certain semesters or if fall-start students have first pick when it comes to course registration, your progress in your academic major could be impacted.

Loss of Momentum: For some students, taking time off or starting college later than their peers can disrupt the academic momentum they’ve built in high school or contribute to learning gaps. A delayed start might make it harder to maintain focus and motivation.

Ultimately, alternative start options can be an appealing option for some students. It’s important to carefully consider how they might impact your overall college experience and long-term goals.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to starting college—what matters most is finding the path that sets you up for success.

College Application Glossary

When you apply to college, it can often feel like you need to learn a whole new language. Just when you thought you had a grasp of high school terminology, here comes a wave of new acronyms, terms, and processes for you to learn. For both students and parents, understanding terms like “FAFSA” and “FERPA” or “Early Decision” and “Early Action” can be confusing!

To make this journey a bit smoother, we’ve compiled a glossary of the most common college application terms. This guide is designed to help families understand the essentials so you can tackle the college application with confidence.

Activity List: A section in the Common Application where students list and describe their extracurricular activities, jobs, volunteer work, and other non-academic pursuits.

Learn more about what counts in the Activity List here.

Additional Information: A section in the Common Application where students can provide extra details about academic or personal circumstances that may need some extra context. This is a place to include relevant information not covered elsewhere in the application.

Learn more about how to use the Additional Information section here.

Application Fee: There is (usually) a cost for every application a student submits. The application fee varies by institution. Make sure you consider application fees—they can add up if you apply to many colleges! Fee waivers are often available for students with financial need.

Coalition Application: A college application platform accepted by many colleges and universities, similar to the Common App but with different features and member schools.

Common App: The most widely used college application platform. The Common App allows students to apply to multiple colleges with one application. Colleges can add sections to the application, but students only need to enter their personal information once and write one personal statement.

Counselor Recommendation: A recommendation letter written by the student’s high school counselor, providing insights into a student's academic and personal growth. Counselor recommendations can also give context about the student’s high school, like unusual grading practices or curriculum.

CSS Profile: A financial aid application used by some colleges to determine eligibility for non-federal financial aid.

See the list of schools requiring the CSS Profile here.

Early Action: An application deadline option that allows students to apply in the fall of their senior year and receive an admission decision early—usually by February. There is no commitment to enroll if admitted.

Learn more about the Early Action deadline here.

Early Decision: An application deadline option where students commit to attending a particular college if admitted. It is binding, meaning the student must withdraw all other college applications if admitted. Students may only apply to one school’s Early Decision deadline.

Learn more about the Early Decision deadline here.

FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a form used to apply for financial aid from the federal government, states, and colleges.

Learn more about the FAFSA here.

FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects the privacy of a student’s education records and gives students certain rights regarding those records. Students will encounter FERPA in the application process when they add their recommenders for the first time. Students are asked to waive their rights to view confidential letters of recommendation.

Honors & Awards: A section in college applications where students list any honors or awards they have received. In the Common App, this section is intended for “academic” honors.

Honors Application: The application for students seeking admission to a college's honors program. This application may be part of the general college application or an additional application to complete once the general application is submitted. Honors college applications may require essays, recommendation letters, and details about the student's academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.

Learn more about honors programs here.

Interview: An optional or required meeting with an admissions representative or alumni to discuss the applicant’s qualifications and interest in the college.

Merit-Based Aid: Financial aid awarded based on a student's academic, artistic, athletic, or other achievements rather than financial need.

Learn more about merit-based aid here.

Need-Based Financial Aid: Financial aid awarded based on a student's financial need, determined by the FAFSA and sometimes the CSS Profile.

Read all of our financial aid blog posts.

Net-Price Calculator: An online tool provided by colleges to estimate the total cost of attendance minus any grants or scholarships a student might receive.

Official Score Report: A report sent to colleges directly from the testing agency (ACT or College Board), showing a student's standardized test scores. Some colleges require an official score report if a student submits test scores. There is an associated fee for sending an official score report.

Other Recommenders: Additional people in a student’s life who can provide recommendation letters, such as employers, coaches, or mentors. These recommendations are usually optional and can offer further insights into the applicant’s abilities and character.

Personal Statement: Also called the Common App essay or the college essay, the personal statement is the main college essay that gives colleges the opportunity to learn more about who the student is as a person and what's important to them. This is a student’s opportunity to speak directly to the person reading their application. Students should use this space to tell their stories and be their authentic selves.

Read more about the personal statement here, including the importance of the personal statement, tips for writing the personal statement, essay topics to avoid, and the role of ChatGPT in essay writing.

PIQs (Personal Insight Questions): Specific questions required by the University of California (UC) application, designed to get to know applicants through their responses.

Portal: An online account provided by each college after a student submits their applications. This is where applicants can check the status of their applications, upload documents, and receive updates.

Priority Deadline: An earlier application deadline at some colleges that may give students eligibility for certain programs and scholarships or even a better chance of admission.

Regular Decision: The standard application process with deadlines typically occurring in January. Students receive their admission decisions in the spring, usually by April 1.

Residency: For public institutions, residency refers to whether a student is considered an in-state or out-of-state resident, which can impact tuition costs and admission policies.

Rolling Admission: An application deadline option where colleges review applications as they are received and make decisions throughout the admission cycle rather than waiting until after a fixed deadline.

Learn more about rolling admission here.

Scholarship Application: This is the application for students seeking scholarships based on criteria such as academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, leadership, or financial need. It may be an application for outside scholarships or an institutional scholarship application specific to the college. These applications often require essays, recommendation letters, and detailed information about the student's accomplishments and goals.

School-Based Application: An application associated directly with an institution. Students use this system to apply directly to that school. 

School Profile: A document provided by high schools that gives colleges context about the school’s environment, grading system, course offerings, and student population.

Self-Reported Test Scores: When students report their own standardized test scores on college applications, with official scores required upon enrollment. This lets students avoid the fees associated with sending official score reports to every school on their list.

SRAR/SSAR (Self-Reported Academic Record / Self-Reported Student Academic Record): Systems where students enter their high school courses and grades directly into their college applications. These systems are used by some colleges in place of official transcripts during the initial application review.

Supplemental Essays: Additional essays that some colleges may require or recommend in the application process. Supplemental essays focus on specific questions and sometimes include topics related to the college or program the student is applying to.

Learn more about supplemental essays here.

Teacher Recommendation: A letter of recommendation written by a high school teacher highlighting the student’s academic abilities, character, and potential for success in college. Some colleges have specific requirements for teacher recommendations, such as including a letter from a core subject teacher.

Learn more about teacher recommendations here.

Test-Optional: This is an institutional policy where submitting standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) is not required as part of the college application. Students will not be penalized in the admissions process if they choose not to submit test scores. 

Learn more about testing policies here.

Transcript: The official record of a student's academic performance in high school, showing courses taken and grades earned. Transcripts are usually sent directly from the high school to the colleges.

UC Application: The application used for all undergraduate campuses in the University of California system. It includes specific sections like Personal Insight Questions (PIQs).

Don't Make These 6 Mistakes on Your College Application

When you open your college application for the first time, it's normal to feel both excitement and apprehension. Years of homework, report cards, and extracurricular involvement have led to this moment, and it’s time to present yourself to potential colleges. Filling out your college application is a big task. We know you want to do your best work and not make any “careless mistakes” along the way.

Let’s discuss common mistakes made on college applications so they don’t trip you up. After all, you’ve worked too hard to let an error make or break your college application. Here are some of the most common mistakes we see during the application process and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Procrastinating

Don’t wait until the last minute to begin filling out your application!

Procrastinating on your college applications can lead to several problems. If you start an application the day before the deadline (or worse—the day of the deadline!), you may be surprised to find application components like essays, grade reporting, or recommendation requirements that you are not prepared for and don’t have enough time to complete to the best of your abilities.

Many colleges share the same deadline dates, so waiting until the last minute could leave you with more work than you can complete. Rushed responses and overlooked details are common consequences of procrastination.

Fix It:

Set up your application early. Go through each application carefully to understand each college’s requirements and specific deadlines. Make a list of your deadlines so you know when applications are due and how many applications are due the same day. Work ahead and plan to submit each application at least a few days before the deadline.

Mistake #2: Not Doing Your Research

Answering a college’s application questions shouldn’t be your first connecting with them. It’s expected that you’ve done your homework to understand a college’s academic and campus life—especially if the college has a supplemental essay question about why you want to attend their institution or study your chosen major.

If you rely on the application alone, you may also miss important information about that college’s application process. A college’s admissions website can include more information about testing policies (like whether a college will superscore or require official score reports from the testing agency), requirements for specific majors, or opportunities to connect, like interviews.

Fix It:

When building your college list, make sure you fully understand the characteristics that make each college unique. Engage with the college through research, college visits, and social media until you can articulate why each school on your list is a good academic, social, and financial fit for you.

Reference a college’s admissions website as you complete your application. If you have questions about admissions requirements, reach out to your admissions representative so you can approach the application with confidence.

Mistake #3: Only Focusing on Academics

For colleges practicing holistic admissions, academics are only one part of the application review process. Don’t neglect non-academic sections of the application, like your essays or activity descriptions. Who you are and what you do outside of the classroom matter in this process! These are opportunities to highlight information not captured in your transcript or academic history, so don’t waste this opportunity by repeating your academic accolades again and again.

Fix It:

Your application should be a complete picture of you as an individual, and you are more than your grades or academic achievements. Your application, particularly your essays and activities, should highlight what a multi-dimensional human being you are! Your application reader will get to know you better, and your application won’t be repetitive.

Think about this: You have the chance to meet your admissions representative. They have your application file and tell you they know everything about you as a student. Then they ask, “What else do I need to know to fully understand you?”

Find a way to incorporate the answer to your question in your application!

Mistake #4: Not Giving Enough Context

On the flip side, let’s say there’s something in your academic history you wish you didn’t have to include with your application. Maybe you experienced a grade drop, or your test scores aren’t what you hoped for.

Ignoring it and hoping your application reader won’t notice isn’t the right move here.

Fix It:

Take ownership and give context. The Additional Information section of the Common App is there for students to give more information to help their reader understand the application. Perhaps the academic dip you experienced was influenced by illness, a learning difference, a situation at home, or another contributing scenario. Instead of avoiding the situation and hoping it will go away, maturely address it and provide enough context so the person reading your application can see the whole picture.

Mistake #5: Skipping Optional Sections

A lot of different parts make up a college application. Questions, essays, recommendation letters, resumes, interviews, and the list goes on. You might breathe a sigh of relief when you see that a certain part isn’t required. But before you get too relaxed, remember that you only get one chance to submit your application, and you want that application to be your best effort.

Cutting corners may save time, but it won’t benefit your application. Don’t leave anything on the table.

Fix It:

While a few things are truly optional (for example, an essay prompt asking for details about a suspension when that has never happened to you), some things are “optional.” As in “optional but strongly recommended.” As in “optional, but almost every other student applying is answering this essay question about why they want to attend our institution, and if you skip it, we may assume you don’t have an answer.”

If there is an optional opportunity that will add more context to your application, take advantage of it! Write the optional essay, submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, and sign up for the optional interview. We can’t say for certain whether completing an optional section of an application will be the one thing that tips the scales in your favor, but it certainly can’t hurt!

Mistake #6: Not Proofreading

Last but certainly not least… The most common mistake we see on the college application is the failure to proofread each and every application.

Submitting an application with typos can not only give a negative impression to the person reading your application, but it can also lead to much bigger problems. A misspelled email address or mistyped phone number can make it impossible for colleges to reach you if they need to. Accidentally entering 750 instead of 570 for your SAT math score provides false information that could see an acceptance revoked. Pasting the wrong supplemental essay into the incorrect college application could mean telling your dream college all the reasons you want to attend another school.

Fix It:

Luckily, this is an easy mistake to fix! Proofread!

First, take your time filling out your application. Have any necessary information (like grade history or your senior schedule) in front of you, and use proper capitalization.

Then, always review your application before you hit submit! Every time. Make sure you are actually reading it instead of just scrolling through! Pay particular attention to sections that may change from college to college (like supplemental essays or where you input test scores if you are—or aren’t—submitting them).

Bookmark this post to return to after you’ve finished filling out an application. Check that you haven’t fallen prey to any of these common pitfalls along the way. Review your application with these mistakes and their solutions in mind, and submit your best possible application!

What You Can & Can’t Control in College Admissions

As discussed in our previous blog post on Holistic Admissions, there are many complex pieces to consider in the college application process. Each college has its own unique review factors and priorities, making it challenging for students and families to predict exactly what colleges are looking for. The desire to control every aspect of the process can feel overwhelming.

In truth, having that level of control in the admissions process is impossible. While there are certain aspects of the process that students can control, others lie entirely out of their reach. By recognizing and understanding what students can and can’t control, we can reduce some of the stress of application season.

In this blog post, we will dive into the elements of the college application that students have the power to control. Additionally, we will shed light on the factors beyond a student's control. Our aim is to help students focus their energy on the areas where they can truly make a difference and let go of factors beyond their influence.

Factors Students Can Control in the College Admissions Process

The College List

No one tells you where you must apply to college (though parents may have some “strong suggestions”). Students have control over their college list. They can apply to a list of ultra-selective colleges that admit less than 10% of their applicants (please do not do this!), or they can apply to a well-balanced list of schools where they have high, medium, and low chances of admission. Students cannot control their admission decision at each school, but they can apply to a strategic and balanced list of colleges.

Academic Performance

Academic performance during high school is one of the most critical factors in the application review process. Students should challenge themselves by taking rigorous courses, explore subjects that reflect their interests, and work to maintain strong grades.

Standardized Test Scores

While many colleges now have test-optional policies, students can impact their college applications by preparing for the SAT or ACT. Students can test more than once to take advantage of a superscore across test dates. There are also a number of test prep resources (including free resources!) to help students learn content and testing strategies to improve their test scores.

Extracurricular Involvement

The college application highlights four years of extracurricular activity, and this is one area where students have almost complete control. While many students have work or family responsibilities, there is still the opportunity for students to pursue their interests in their free time. Colleges are looking for students who are genuinely interested and committed, regardless of whether it's a sports team, a debate club, volunteering at a local shelter, or participating in a cultural organization. Use your extracurricular involvement to tell a story about who you are and what matters to you.

Essays

The personal statement and supplemental essays are entirely in the student’s power. Crafting compelling and authentic application essays allows students to showcase their unique experiences. Students should take their time when writing their college application essays. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your journey and tell your story the way you want it to be told.

Letters of Recommendation

Recommendations are partly within a student’s control. It’s true that someone else is writing these letters, and students waive their rights to view them as part of the application. But students have control over who they ask to represent them in the admissions process. Building strong relationships with teachers and mentors can lead to impactful letters of recommendation. Request recommendations from individuals who can highlight your skills, character, and potential to contribute positively to a college community.

Factors Students Have No Control Over in the College Admissions Process

Institutional Priorities

Colleges have specific institutional needs and priorities. We like this blog post from Georgia Tech that explains institutional priority, or IP (Georgia Tech calls them the two most important letters in college admissions). Factors such as demographics, geographical distribution, and family connections to a college (just to name a few!) play a role in their admissions decisions. Academic departments may also have specific requirements. Institutional needs are constantly changing and are rarely public knowledge. Don’t spend your time trying to predict what you think a college’s institutional priorities will be.

Competition & Numbers

College admission seems to get more competitive each year, especially at highly-selective colleges. One thing no one can control—not students and not the colleges themselves—is how many students apply each application cycle and who those students are. Application numbers swell due to large things (like a college joining The Common App or enacting a test-optional policy) and small things (like not having any additional essays or even winning an athletic championship… yes, really!). No matter how many students apply, each college only has limited spots. Many colleges could admit a qualified class of incoming students several times over from their applicant pool. With so many strong applicants, colleges often lean on things a student cannot control, like institutional priorities.

Admissions Decisions

Students can put their best foot forward, but at the end of the day, they cannot control the admissions decisions they receive from each school. Trust that you’ve done your best work throughout the application process, and trust that things will work out for you in the end.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL

Be Authentic

Rather than fixating on trying to predict each aspect of the college admissions process, focus on personal growth and authenticity. Pursue your passions and interests, develop intellectual curiosity, and cultivate qualities that will serve you beyond college.

Build A Balanced College List

Decide what criteria make up a strong college fit for you, and build your college list from there. Thoroughly research schools that are a strong academic, social, and financial fit for you. As you build your college list, ensure that you are applying to a balanced list of schools where you have a good chance of admission.

Seek Guidance & Support

Use your resources! Whether it’s your college consultant, your school counselor, your teachers, or other resources you have available, you don’t have to go through this process alone! Seek guidance from those who can give expert advice and support you throughout the admissions process.

As you go through the college planning and application process, it's important to focus on the factors within your control and understand those that are not. Embrace authenticity, emphasize balance, and seek out support to confidently navigate the college admissions process.

Remember, your worth extends far beyond any college admissions decision. This journey is about finding the right fit for your future aspirations and goals.

We support students through the entire process & help them present their best selves in the admission process.

What is Holistic Admissions?

When it comes to college admissions, a phrase that pops up often is “holistic admissions.” In a recent episode of our podcast, College Planning Simplified, one of my colleagues said “holistic” wasn’t in her regular vocabulary before entering the world of college admissions. Now, she uses it nearly every day. But if you aren’t a college consultant, admissions rep, or school counselor, you may not be familiar with the concept of “holistic admissions.” What exactly does it mean? How does it impact a student’s college application?

In this blog post, we'll explore how holistic admissions works, look at the factors considered during the admission review process, and provide tips for how students can maximize their application for colleges that practice holistic admissions.

WHAT IS HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

Holistic admissions is an approach many colleges and universities use to evaluate applicants beyond the numbers (academic achievements and test scores). Instead of reviewing applications solely focusing on GPA and an SAT or ACT score, holistic admissions takes a comprehensive look at the applicant's overall self. Their holistic self. Using holistic admissions, a college can consider various factors that demonstrate a student’s potential for success at their institution.

WHAT DO COLLEGES REVIEW IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

In holistic admissions, colleges assess applications based on a range of factors, including:

• Academics: While holistic admissions considers more than grades, a student’s academic performance still remains an essential factor in their application. Admissions offices will review the rigor of the applicant's high school curriculum, class rank (if reported), and trends in grades over time. Holistic admissions doesn’t give students an excuse to take it easy in the classroom.

• Extracurricular Involvement: Colleges value students who will positively contribute to their college community and the greater community. One way to gauge a student’s out-of-the-classroom potential in colleges is to see how that student spends their free time in high school. Extracurricular involvement is an opportunity for students to show colleges who they are, what matters to them, and how they choose to spend their time. 

• Essays: Holistic admissions places significant weight on the applicant's essays. The personal statement and college-specific supplemental essays allow students to share their unique stories and provide context to the rest of their applications. Essays let admissions offices understand the applicant's character, motivations, and perspectives.

• Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other important mentors in a student’s life provide valuable insight into that student’s character, work ethic, and potential for success in college. These letters lend external support to a student’s application.

• Standardized Test Scores: Depending on a college’s testing policy, SAT or ACT scores may still be a factor in the admissions process, but they are not the sole determining factor. Holistic admissions recognizes that the numbers don’t always tell the whole story, so test scores are viewed in context with the rest of the application.

• Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges may use the amount of interest a student has shown in their institution as a factor for consideration in the admissions process. When evaluating an application, they may emphasize a college-specific supplemental essay (like a “Why Us?” essay) or note if the student applying has visited their campus or engaged in other meaningful ways.

• Other Factors: Depending on a college’s goals, policies, and priorities, other review factors may be used in holistic admissions. For example, some public universities may consider a student’s residency. Some religious institutions may ask about a student’s religious beliefs. Other colleges may consider whether a student has family members who attended that university. Other factors that complete the “full picture” of who a student is can vary by institution, so understanding their admission factors is key.

Holistic admissions also allows admissions offices to see how a student’s college application was shaped by their experiences. Knowing what special circumstances a student has faced or challenges they’ve overcome means they can be viewed as a whole person. It may provide valuable context to other parts of their application.

IS EVERYTHING WEIGHTED THE SAME IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

This is a common question that comes up when we talk with students and families about holistic admissions. Often, the underlying question is something like, “Do my grades matter less in holistic admissions?” or “If my grades aren’t as strong, can something else (like extracurriculars) make up for it?”

Short answer: Not really.

Slightly longer answer: The way that colleges practice holistic admissions can vary. Each institution has the ability to decide which review factors they weigh more heavily than others; the different review factors do not “count” equally. 

While non-academic factors matter in holistic admissions—and sometimes, they can matter a lot—academic factors like the rigor of curriculum and final grades are almost always top priority.

Again, holistic admissions means the whole student and the sum of their experiences are taken into consideration. If a student’s academic history has contributing factors, the student should make sure that context is given in the application. But it is up to each college to decide how they will evaluate the information provided.

So how do you determine which review factors are weighted more heavily than others? The college may tell you outright in an information session or on their admissions website. But if you aren’t sure, you can look up the college’s Common Data Set (Google “college name” + “Common Data Set”). A chart in section C7 shows a college’s review factors and the level of importance of each.

HOW DO I INCREASE MY CHANCES IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

Here are some tips to maximize your chances of admission to a college that practices holistic admissions:

• Maintain a strong academic performance during high school. Students should challenge themselves with rigorous coursework, dedicate time to study, seek help when needed, and show a genuine interest in learning.

• Engage in extracurricular activities that align with interests and values. Look for opportunities to demonstrate commitment, impact, leadership, and growth. Think “quality over quantity” with extracurricular involvement.

• Write essays that tell your unique story. Use your writing to authentically showcase your perspectives, values, experiences, and personal growth. Make sure to thoughtfully answer shorter supplemental essays, especially if the question asks about your college fit or your chosen major.

• Build meaningful relationships with teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can write compelling letters of recommendation. Engage in class and activities, and let the adults in your life get to know you, your interests, and your goals. When requesting recommendations, consider which writers will add new perspective to your application or can support pieces of your story you wish to emphasize.

• Demonstrate a genuine interest in the colleges you want to attend. Experience campus either in-person or virtually. Reach out to your admissions counselor with any questions you may have during the application process. And if there is a supplemental essay question that allows you to demonstrate how and why you are a strong fit for the college, be sure to thoughtfully convey how the college’s specific programs, values, or opportunities align with your aspirations.

Need help navigating the holistic admissions process?