College admissions policies and practices continue to evolve, reflecting shifts in priorities and technological advancements. While some factors remain consistent, others are reevaluated each year. This article highlights four major trends shaping college admissions in 2024.

Trends in Test Policies

In recent years, colleges have fluctuated between requiring standardized test scores and adopting test-optional policies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many institutions dropped SAT and ACT requirements to accommodate students facing testing challenges. However, a growing number of schools are now reinstating these requirements.

Shifting Test Requirements

Data shows that prior to 2020, most applicants submitted test scores. With the adoption of test-optional policies in 2021, submissions dropped significantly. Yet, as studies revealed potential inaccuracies in evaluations without standardized tests, some schools—including Ivy League institutions—have reverted to requiring scores.

Impact of Test-Optional Policies

Despite this trend, many colleges continue to offer test-optional admissions. This flexibility has contributed to larger applicant pools. For example:

• MIT saw applications rise from 21,000 to 33,000 under a test-optional policy but experienced a drop when test requirements returned.

• Harvard experienced a surge from 44,000 to over 57,000 applicants after removing the test requirement.

Test-optional policies also offer financial benefits for colleges. With increased applications and associated fees, institutions gain additional revenue while maintaining automated evaluation systems.

Recommendations for Applicants

While test-optional policies remain widespread, submitting SAT or ACT scores continues to provide a competitive edge. Data reveals that students who submit scores tend to achieve higher acceptance rates than those who do not. Therefore, students should consider preparing for and submitting test scores to strengthen their applications.

Trends in Essays

With advancements in artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, colleges are facing challenges in evaluating the authenticity of personal essays. Despite concerns, essays remain a vital part of the application process.

Rise of Video Introductions

To counter AI-generated essays, some colleges now include video submissions:

• Optional video introductions are accepted at Brown University, the University of Chicago, and Washington University in St. Louis.

• Required video introductions are implemented for certain majors at Tufts University.

Videos help admissions officers assess applicants' personalities and communication skills, providing insights that essays alone cannot capture.

Diversified Application Portfolios

In addition to video introductions, students are encouraged to explore alternative ways to demonstrate their skills and interests, such as:

• Blogging about personal experiences or projects

• Building a strong social media presence related to academic or extracurricular achievements

• Creating YouTube channels to showcase hobbies, initiatives, or research

These long-term efforts can supplement traditional essays, but authenticity is key. Last-minute portfolios may come across as insincere, so students should start early to develop meaningful content.

Trends in Early Applications

The number of students applying through Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) programs has risen sharply, increasing by 38% since 2019. Early applications offer students a strategic advantage, particularly in an increasingly competitive environment.

Changing Strategies

Historically, early applications were primarily used for "reach" schools—institutions slightly beyond a student’s qualifications. However, as acceptance rates decline, students are now applying early to slightly more attainable targets to improve their odds.

Recommendations for Applicants

Given the growing competitiveness, students should carefully research schools and consider submitting early applications to institutions within or slightly above their target range.

Trends in Legacy Admissions

Colleges are rethinking legacy admissions, which previously gave preference to applicants with family ties to the institution. This shift reflects a broader commitment to equity and merit-based evaluation.

Policy Changes

Institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, Johns Hopkins University, and Virginia Tech have eliminated legacy preferences in recent years. These changes level the playing field, making it easier for first-generation college students to compete.

High School Legacy Networks

While family-based legacy admissions are fading, high school legacies persist. Certain high schools with historical ties to elite colleges may still provide students with advantages due to established relationships and track records.

Summary

Test Policies

• Many colleges are reinstating SAT/ACT requirements, though test-optional policies remain prevalent.

• Submitting test scores continues to improve admission chances.

Essays

• Colleges are introducing video submissions to address AI-generated essays.

• Students should explore additional ways to highlight their strengths, such as blogs or video portfolios.

Early Applications

• Early applications have surged, providing strategic advantages for students targeting slightly higher-tier schools.

Legacy Admissions

• Legacy preferences are being phased out, promoting fairer evaluations based on merit.

Admissions trends are constantly evolving, and staying informed can help students make strategic decisions. For more guidance on preparing for the 2024 admissions cycle, feel free to reach out to A-One Institute.