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with Bonnie Kleffman, M.Ed., GCDF
In the common data set for UT, what parameters are more important than others? (GPA vs. Test Scores vs. Essays, etc)?
Dear College Consultant:
The answer to this question applies to most highly selective colleges and universities
and is one that gets asked on repeat! First, the Common Data Set is an in-depth collection of information produced annually by almost every college in the US. Though it is an exhaustive collection of information, the relevant field for the answer to this question is C7, or “Basis for Selection.” To access this information, simply search Common Data Set and the name of the school you want to learn about. Click on the most recent year listed, open and scroll down to field C7. This is where the hidden gem answer to this question is found.
There are extensive parameters listed, but having looked at many a data set I can tell you that the numerical portion of the application, the GPA, class rank, rigor of secondary school courses and test scores (if required) are universally important to all colleges. Usually marked as ‘very important’ or ‘important,’ these parameters comprise about 60% of the selection basis for schools that espouse a holistic review process, such as UT Austin. (Holistic review means that all portions of the application are considered – not just the numbers. This includes extracurriculars, essays, letters of recommendation, ie – the whole application.) Understand too that college acceptance rates vary from season to season at each school.
This means that essays and these ‘other’ factors can comprise up to 40% of the decision basis for any student. Yes, grades matter most, but for holistic review schools, it is imperative that we look at any factor that is “Very Important,” “Important” or “Considered” within the school’s Common Data Set. In terms of what matters most within any application cycle, it is hard to speculate, as these things are not shared outside of the admissions office. Understand that college acceptance rates vary from season to season at each school. The 60/40 parameter split is a generality, but an excellent guideline and I dare say, reassurance to students that their application is more than just the numbers. That said, a meaningful activities list, an excellent essay, and thoroughly researched short answer questions can make the difference at UT and other similarly selective schools.
One bonus pro tip: the factor that is often overlooked is the last one on the list: Demonstrated Interest. If the school tracks that, be sure to communicate to them that you are interested by following them on social media, signing up for their newsletter, making a campus visit (virtual or in-person), and communicating with your admissions officer. Not only will this help you learn about the school, but it will also show them that the school is high on the list of schools you are considering.
If you have any questions, try to catch some of our free college planning events on our website where we answer your college admission questions live, or simply book your DISCOVERY CALL today. Best luck!
How should we think of acceptance rates for universities overall vs. key departments such as engineering or business?
Dear College Consultant:
I am so glad you asked, as acceptance rates are not always as straightforward as a simple percentage of total applications. Both engineering and business are what’s known as IMPACTED majors, or degree programs that receive a disproportionately large number of applications compared to others. Not limited to these, STEM college admission rates vary at any school and include Computer Science, Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, and many other popular disciplines.
So, for example, while the overall admit rate for a school may be listed as 43%, the admit rate for a college of engineering applicant may be as low as 20%. To get a good handle on what this means for the schools on your list, take into consideration what the school is known for. If a school has one of the most prestigious business majors around, you can bet that the admit rate for the business school is below the admit rate for the entire school, which takes all majors into consideration.
For applicants interested in impacted majors, it is more important than ever that the application ‘read like the major’ for which it was submitted. For an engineering applicant, as an example, that means high rigor in math and science disciplines, extracurriculars that show an interest in engineering or related topics, and strong grades and test scores. If you have specific questions about the school, reach out to an admissions officer or someone in the department. They may not know the answer (as this may vary by application cycle), but you can gather what type of applicant they are looking for through thoughtful inquiry, tours and research.
When is the right time to plan for the college application?
Dear College Consultant:
We get this question often – what is the best college planning timeline to follow and what are the best college admission strategies to employ in each year of high school? In all honesty, the college resume begins freshman year, with subsequent years of high school being incrementally more important. To build a strong college application foundation, students need to keep their eye on where they want to END their high school trajectory and work backward from there. This careful college planning requires that families familiarize themselves with the program of studies and class choices available and take the highest level of rigor in which the student can succeed. Want to tackle AP Calculus BC in the senior year? Understand the prerequisites to get there now and begin that journey in the 9th grade.
Extracurricular activity building is also an important deciding factor for admissions officers. It is important that students participate in a few things that matter to them and do them well. Seeking leadership, whether in sports, clubs, the arts or employment, is what colleges are looking for, so seek out opportunities to shine outside of the classroom as well as within it.
There are so many moving parts to the college planning process compared to years ago, and I could (and may) write a book on this very topic. Testing plans, writing an effective college essay, planning for enriching summer activities, creating a meaningful activities list…all of these things are important to the planning process! My best (short) answer is, well, NOW, or as soon as your student enters high school. If you would like to learn more about what a college consultant is or does, or if you are interested in seeking help for your family, check out our website at www.accesscollegeamerica.org. Book your DISCOVERY CALL now!
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