Navigating the Evolving Landscape of College Admissions

Understanding Recent Changes in College Admissions

There is a “sea of sameness” regarding the changes in college admissions. The increasing importance of standardized tests, the rising number of deferred applicants, and the growing levels of applications are all contributing to the challenges families face. While these factors highlight the ongoing difficulty of college admissions, newer themes are emerging that families should consider as well.

Class Action Lawsuit and Its Implications

One potential news item that may be of particular interest involves a class action lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in the District of Massachusetts on August 8th. This suit targets the Consortium on Financing Higher Education and several prominent schools. It claims that their Early Decision practices are discriminatory. The list of 32 schools includes names like Amherst, Bowdoin, Duke, Northwestern, Vanderbilt, and Williams.

While this is not the first time schools have been sued for admissions and aid practices and a lawsuit doesn't imply guilt ,many institutions may be more inclined to settle lawsuits and modify their behavior in the current political environment. In fact, several schools mentioned in the recent suit settled a 2022 lawsuit regarding need-aware admissions, paying over $20 million in some cases. If select schools modify their Early Decision practices, it may lead to changes in acceptance rates. This shift could create additional challenges, requiring families to better understand the legal and political dynamics impacting their applications and how Early Decision practices function.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Admissions

We have been discussing the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on college admissions for some time. Virginia Tech’s recent announcement regarding the use of AI to evaluate admissions essays is something else to consider this admissions cycle. Colleges are rapidly incorporating AI into their admissions reading and applicant selection processes and this process will impact how students will be evaluated as well as how theu should position themselves .

A recent survey of 160 admissions professionals conducted by Accuity Insights revealed that 43% of U.S. university respondents confirmed the use of AI in evaluating applicants. Understanding how different schools utilize AI, the vendors providing their AI-infused software, and how each vendor incorporates AI into their offerings is increasingly important. Companies like Element 451, Technosolutions, and Liaison have different models. Knowing the details of how an applicant is evaluated and valued by a school is critical for admissions success, especially as AI and algorithms increasingly influence decision-making processes.

Shifting Priorities in Admissions

As AI plays a bigger role in the admissions process, the priorities of admissions representatives are also shifting. Many traditional tasks are becoming more automated. Our most recent conversations with admissions officers indicate that colleges are placing increasing value on volunteer work. With more time available, admissions representatives can now examine applicants' volunteer efforts more closely.

The Accuity Insights survey highlights that the time saved due to increased AI use is allowing 46% of respondents to focus more on community service and civic engagement. A coherent and well-documented track record of community service is likely to be more significant for applicants this year. This trend also extends to non-cognitive variables and personality traits, which the same survey indicates are becoming a more prominent focus in admissions. Understanding what individual schools value is crucial.

The Competitive Landscape of Public Universities

Finally, the competition at public flagship universities is likely to intensify this fall. Last year, public school application growth significantly outpaced that of private schools. This trend, combined with increasing pressure on many states to admit fewer out-of-state students, will make the application process more challenging at many flagship schools.

States like California, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, and Texas have been tough on out-of-state applicants for some time. Now, Wisconsin (The Wisconsin Guarantee), Michigan (ED), and Indiana (Kelly Business admission) are following suit. News from many states indicates that other schools and systems are not far behind. Admissions strategies for public schools will need to adapt for many out-of-state applicants.

Conclusion: Adapting to New Realities

In summary, while many recent themes and issues surrounding admissions remain constant, new considerations are emerging this cycle. Families must stay informed and adapt to these changes. For those who need assistance navigating this evolving landscape, we are here to help.

Understanding the complexities of college admissions is vital. We can work together to ensure that you are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.