What No One Explains about US College Admissions, Part 1

Most of my families are from other countries, with their children born and educated in the US. I've noticed that parents often bring assumptions about how the university (and entry-level hiring) systems work. Here is an introduction to the inner workings of college admissions for those who are learning the differences.

American universities are trying to do more than admit the students with the best grades. They are trying to build a class.

In other countries, resources are allocated to the top universities, and only students with the highest test scores go to top universities. In the US, universities have their own philosophies and institutional priorities. After screening for a baseline of academic ability, they are looking to admit first-year classes that fit these priorities. If they want a geographically diverse first year class, they may prioritize admitting students from certain parts of the country or world that are under-represented in their populations. Or, they may have a particular need to fill seats in specific majors (often, these are in the humanities, like Classics or Philosophy).

They may look for specific character traits. Religious universities, such as Boston College or Santa Clara University, may select students who embody faith-inspired values. Women’s colleges, like Wellesley or Smith College, may pay more attention to applicants interested in gender equity. In other words, the university's mission shapes the students it may choose to admit.

This is why the application consists not only of the student’s grades, but also essays, activities, and sometimes teacher letters of recommendation: Colleges are looking for students who demonstrate an ability to succeed academically, and also “personal qualities.” If you have heard the term “holistic admissions,” this is what they mean: admissions that are not only based on academics, but also students' curiosity, character, how they might contribute to the campus community, and other traits.

To be clear, this does not mean that admissions officers are looking for perfect students. They are looking to build a class of students from different backgrounds, perspectives, and talents. That means that two equally qualified students can have different admissions decisions from the same university because they bring different strengths and experiences to the incoming class.

What does all of this mean for my student?

1. Encourage your student to join activities they genuinely enjoy.

Admissions rewards those who show growth, sustained contribution over time, and impact. Students who enjoy an activity (rather than participating for admissions' sake) are more likely to remain involved over multiple years, develop expertise, take initiative, and mentor others. They are also more likely to write sincere essays about activities that were meaningful to them.

2. Admissions decisions are not always a reflection of your student's ability.

If your student is not admitted to some of his or her top choices, it will be helpful to know that these decisions are often due to factors that were outside the student’s control. Oftentimes, colleges admit applicants who fulfill a specific need that has nothing to do with your student's qualifications.

This is why it is important to apply to a range of universities: reach schools, target schools, and likely (or safety) schools. Your child's list of colleges should range in selectivity.