As the 2024 college application is around the corner, Ivy Central has identified significant trends that are shaping the landscape of college admissions.
Here is a list of things to look out for and what you can do to stay ahead.
Trend #1: Emphasis on the Student’s ‘Lived Experience’
A major trend that is visible is that colleges are asking students to reflect on their ‘lived experience.’ A common essay question that colleges are asking is about identity, community, and personal background. It is evident that following the Supreme Court’s decision on race-based admission, colleges are providing students an opportunity to showcase how their unique experiences would shape their contributions to campus life. Supreme Court overturns affirmative action in America (orfonline.org)
Ivy Central’s Advice: Brainstorm with your parents and counselor and reflect on your identity and experiences in your application essays. These essays can become winning essays if you can bring forth your personal qualities and strengths.
Trend #2: High emphasis on context
Context has always been a key factor in college admissions, but its importance has increased in light of recent Supreme Court decisions. Colleges are focussing on evaluating applicants within the framework of their high school, zip code, and regional backgrounds. This contextual approach is particularly relevant as some institutions are reintroducing test score requirements.
Ivy Central’s Advice: It is important to understand how your extracurricular achievements, volunteering activities, test scores, and academics compare to other students at their high school and in their region within your specific area. This will provide a realistic assessment of an applicant’s admission chances rather than checking a generalized admission rate of the past.
Trend #3: Colleges Expecting High Application Numbers
The pool of applications in the past few years has been going through the roof. This year and the years ahead are set to see an increase in the number. There is bound to be an impact on the admission rate. If historically a college has required a 3.6, if the number of applicants applying have a higher GPA and are applying to these colleges as a backup, chances are the colleges will raise their required GPA and student profile and appear more selective and ‘prestigious.’
Ivy Central’s Advice: It is important to create a robust college list and stay abreast with the trends of the colleges you are keen on applying to. Attending the college webinars and signing up for their newsletters, will enable you to be better informed. This will help you to recognize when colleges are using strategies to boost application numbers and selectivity.
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Trend #4: Shine through Curiosity and Impact
Given the heightened competitive landscape, students who showcase curiosity, commitment, and impact can stand out in the admission process. Academically, each applicant needs good scores. Coupled with unique perspectives and genuine contributions are what truly distinguish applicants.
Ivy Central’s Advice: Reflect and identify your interests and passions. Participate in activities that spark your curiosity. Take up roles that allow you to make meaningful contributions. This approach will enrich your high school experience and enhance your application narrative.
At Ivy Central, our experienced advisors are here to support you through the college admissions process. If you’re interested in personalized advice and exploring your best-fit options, get in touch with us.Make Application Season Less Stressful with These 5 Tips | Ivy Central
