Making Sense of College Admissions: Expert Advice for Families

For many high school families, the college application season can be a time of stress and uncertainty. With so many decisions to make, it can be hard to navigate the complexities of the process. To help families understand the inner workings of college admissions, we would like to share insights from award-winning higher education journalist and New York Times bestselling author, Jeffrey Selingo. His deep dive into different academic institutions has provided him with valuable perspectives on how admissions offices evaluate applications and what students need to know to navigate the system.

Insights into College Admissions Approaches and Test Optional Trend

Insights into College Admissions Approaches and Test Optional Trend

One of the key takeaways from Jeffrey's research is the vast differences in how colleges approach the admissions process. During his year of observation, he spent time at three very institutions: a large public university like the University of Washington, a small liberal arts college like Davidson College in North Carolina, and a private university like Emory University in Georgia.

At large public universities, the sheer volume of applications is staggering—sometimes reaching 40,000 to 60,000. This creates staffing challenges, leading these schools to rely on part-time readers, such as graduate students or retirees, to help manage the workload. On the other hand, private institutions like Emory University have larger admissions teams, enabling a more thorough review of each application. This difference plays a significant role in how applications are processed and assessed.

The Impact of Test-Optional Policies in College Admissions

One of the major shifts in college admissions has been the growing adoption of test-optional policies. With standardized test requirements no longer mandatory at many schools, colleges have seen a surge in applications. While this increase in applications presents its own challenges, it also provides admissions offices with greater flexibility in shaping their incoming classes. Jeffrey highlighted that this shift also means that colleges are looking for applicants with a new mindset.

Rather than seeking students who seem to have peaked in high school, admissions officers want to see students who are excited to grow during their college years. Schools want applicants who are open to exploring new classes, clubs, and majors—students who show a willingness to learn and evolve, rather than those who view college as simply a stepping stone to a degree.

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Landscape

With many applicants boasting similar GPAs and extracurricular activities, it has become harder for students to distinguish themselves. At highly selective schools, traditional achievements like perfect AP exam scores no longer guarantee admission. In Jeffrey’s conversation with Duke University’s Dean of Admissions, the dean explained that accomplishments like a “wall of fives” on AP exams are no longer the deciding factor they once were.

Instead, colleges are looking for students who have engaged in extraordinary activities—whether that’s conducting original research, addressing real-world problems, or demonstrating a passion for something unique. 

Broadening Your College Search:
Key Factors to Consider

While it’s easy to focus solely on top-tier schools, Jeffrey emphasized the importance of broadening your college search. There are over 1,000 four-year colleges in the U.S., many of which provide an excellent education and have a higher acceptance rate than highly selective institutions. However, as you explore a wider range of options, it’s also crucial to consider the financial stability of potential colleges.

Jeffrey highlighted that while many institutions offer great educational opportunities, some smaller colleges are struggling to remain viable, cutting programs and faculty to stay afloat. It’s essential for prospective students and their families to assess the stability of a college before committing. Jeffrey encouraged families to ask questions about a college’s resources, faculty support, and long-term viability during the admissions process. Navigating the college admissions process can be daunting, but with thorough research and proper guidance, families can make more informed decisions and approach the process with greater confidence.



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