How Right Applicants Are Selected By Universities

Now that you know what to include on application forms, and what is meant by a good college fit, you now need to understand how a university evaluates your application.

Let’s start with how universities take into consideration the above mentioned two essential components of any admission. All universities require them but they don’t use them in the same way.

At one end, there are highly selective universities that accept a handful of their applicants. As far as GPA and test scores are concerned for those universities, they all require high scores. Highly selective universities put emphasis on the qualitative elements of a student’s profile. These could be things like unique qualifications, diverse background etc.

On the other side of the spectrum are the less selective universities. These institutes accept many of their applicants. The less selective universities usually focus your student profile. If you meet the required scores eligibility, then you have a good chance of getting admission. The qualitative aspect is not as important at these universities, which is the reason behind higher acceptance rates.

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In admission’s circle, there is a word called ‘yield’ which has to be taken into consideration. It is the percentage of students that actually enroll at the university. At a less selective university, there is a requirement to accept more students to fill the classes. This is the reason they can’t emphasize good fit as much.

At larger universities, there are a lot of seats to be filled. So, they need to fill those by accepting a lot of students. In a large community, everyone is represented.

Now let’s take a look at selectivity. What do universities want from a student? You can learn the answer by visiting any university website. All foreign university websites have a detailed application process and the selection criteria. So if you pay attention, they tell you exactly what they are looking for in a student.

Websites of the most selective colleges state that at least 10-12 people, at multiple stages, will discuss an application before it is placed in the admissions pile. They also provide a lengthy list of ‘college fit’ qualities that the applicant should have. Also, you can easily find class profile information detailing various demographic factors of the accepted students. These give a solid understanding of the match between you and the college.

The more you browse university websites, the better your understanding of the selection criteria will get. The university doesn’t need to be one you shortlisted, just visit as many websites you can without getting confused. Make a list of colleges under three criteria – 1. Where you are sure you will get admission 2. Where you wish you could get admission 3. Dream universities. Now visit their websites and see the different requirements. At the end of this activity, you should have a clear understanding of how your application will be received at those places.

If you feel you are a good fit for a better university that what you had in mind, then go ahead and add it to the shortlisted universities.

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