Blog

When considering what kind of student top schools are looking for and how you can become that ideal candidate, getting into these prestigious institutions can actually be easier. Strategically understanding the correct information and current trends is crucial when applying to U.S. colleges. This post will delve into the latest trends in U.S. college admissions.


 

7 Key College Admission Trends

1. Increased Application Volume and Competition

During the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 admission seasons, many colleges adopted test-optional policies, leading to a significant increase in application volumes and heightened competition. As acceptance rates drop and students apply to more schools, applicants face stiffer competition.

 

2. Popularity of Early Decision (ED)

More students are utilizing early decision and early action options to submit their applications earlier. This allows them to receive admission results sooner. Some colleges favor early decision applicants, enabling them to attract more students through this method. Schools like UPenn fill a significant portion of their incoming class this way, making the strategic use of the ED card crucial in today’s competitive environment.

 

3. Expansion of Test-Optional Policies

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges have expanded their test-optional policies. More schools are making SAT or ACT score submissions optional or not required, compelling students to highlight other aspects of their profiles beyond test scores.

4. Increase in Video Submissions

Some colleges are allowing students to submit video essays or self-introduction videos. This new method of submission lets students better showcase their personalities and abilities. Additionally, Common App delayed announcing its essay prompts for the 2023-2024 cycle, potentially due to issues related to ChatGPT. Colleges might consider alternative methods such as video interviews or portfolio materials in place of admission essays.

 

5. Importance of Major Selection

Competition for popular majors is becoming fiercer, and students need to better explain their suitability for their chosen major. Emphasizing experiences related to their major and future academic and career plans is essential in making thoughtful major selections.

 

6. Additional Early Decision Rounds

Some colleges are introducing additional early decision rounds, allowing students to commit to their second-choice schools more quickly if they are rejected by their first choice. This enables colleges to attract needed students sooner.

 

7. Importance of Fit Between Major and Personal Compatibility

As admission competition intensifies, selecting a college that fits well with the student’s academic, social, and economic needs is becoming increasingly important. Finding and choosing colleges that align well with their profiles is crucial for students.
 

In addition to these trends, there are strategic ways to gain admission to U.S. colleges, such as through direct admissions programs. Programs like those offered by Niche and Concourse Global provide students with the opportunity to receive admission offers from colleges without going through the cumbersome application process. (※ Click here for more information.)


Creative Portfolios at MIT 

According to Forbes, the most significant trends in 2023 are test-optional policies and having specialized extracurriculars (EC). Unique, creative projects like research are becoming increasingly necessary. Currently, 96% of colleges do not require test scores, with institutions like Columbia University and the College of William and Mary making test-optional policies permanent. However, universities like MIT still require test scores. Given that MIT attracts applicants with near-perfect scores, it's challenging to gain admission based solely on test scores. Therefore, submitting a creative portfolio is an option.
 

For students applying to MIT, it’s crucial to elaborate on research areas or project experiences and present them through a unique portfolio. (※ Click here for more information.) In conclusion, understanding and leveraging these trends can provide a strategic advantage in the competitive landscape of U.S. college admissions.