Universities' Student Selection: Criteria And Considerations

Getting into university can be a nerve-wracking process for students and their families. While admissions offices aim to be fair and transparent, the process is not entirely objective. Universities consider a variety of factors when selecting students, including grades, essays, and institutional priorities such as geographic diversity. Some universities may also use a formula that combines test scores and GPAs, while others may have multiple reviewers weigh in on decisions. Additionally, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated interest in the university can also play a role in the admissions process. Ultimately, universities strive to admit students who they believe will thrive academically and contribute to a well-rounded student body.

Grades in college prep courses

Colleges view grades in college prep courses as a strong predictor of academic success at university. Research shows a correlation between high school grades and academic performance in college, as well as retention and graduation rates. Colleges also consider grades in college prep courses when evaluating a student's ability to handle rigorous curricula. Even if a student struggled in their first year, colleges favour advancement and improvement in these courses.

In addition, grades in certain courses may receive more attention depending on the student's chosen field. For example, for business or engineering programmes, maths grades are particularly important, while for nursing, science grades are crucial.

When evaluating transcripts, admissions officers consider the context of the student's high school, recognising that schools vary significantly in competitiveness and course offerings. They also recalculate GPAs using a standard formula to facilitate comparisons between applicants from different schools with different GPA scales.

While grades in college prep courses are essential, they are not the only factor in university admissions. Universities also consider standardised test scores, essays, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and other personal factors.

Strength of curriculum

The strength of a student's curriculum is a significant factor in university admissions decisions. This refers to the number, type, and level of difficulty of the courses a student takes in high school.

In the US, the strength of a student's curriculum is the second most important factor in college admissions, after high school grades. Students who take rigorous courses signal to colleges that they are intellectually curious, will demonstrate a passion for their field of study, and will bring a strong work ethic to campus. Rigorous courses include accelerated, honors, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual-enrollment courses. Admissions officers encourage students to take the most challenging curriculum that they can reasonably manage.

In Scotland, the type of subjects taken at an advanced level is the strongest mediator for social class differences in university admissions. In the US, the number of advanced subjects is the strongest. However, in both countries, the strength of the academic curriculum plays an important role in explaining social class differences.

The Russell Group universities in the UK—the more selective and research-intensive universities—have highlighted eight subjects as facilitating entry into their institutions: English Literature, History, Modern and Classical Languages, Maths, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Geography.

Admission test scores

The importance of these scores varies between institutions. Some large state schools may rely on a formula that combines test scores and GPA. In contrast, highly selective schools may consider test scores as part of a more holistic evaluation, alongside factors like essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and demonstrated interest in the school.

Many colleges now adopt a "test-optional," "test-flexible," or "test-blind" approach, giving students the choice of whether to submit test scores. However, for those that do require or accept them, test scores remain a significant factor in the admissions process.

Test scores are especially important for students who have not taken many college prep courses or AP classes. In such cases, strong test scores can demonstrate their ability to handle college-level academics. Additionally, for students with lower grades, high test scores can be advantageous in the admissions process.

Overall, while not the sole criterion, admission test scores play a significant role in university selection, and students aiming for competitive programs should strive for strong performance in these exams.

Extracurricular activities

Universities are generous in their definition of extracurricular activities. While they can include school-sponsored activities such as band, orchestra, choir, school newspaper or yearbook club, and special-interest clubs like drama or math club, they can also include part-time jobs, caring for a relative, volunteering, or creating a small business.

When evaluating extracurricular activities, admissions officers look for:

• Patterns among the activities to show a balance of physical and intellectual pursuits.
• Commitment to the activities, with longer-term involvement looking better on applications.
• Community involvement, which demonstrates a desire to pursue passions and a willingness to take on leadership roles.
• Leadership skills, which can be gained through activities such as captaining a sports team, holding office in student government, or editing the school newspaper.

When choosing extracurricular activities, students should consider:

• Career interests and intended college major or minor.
• Existing passions and hobbies.
• Activities that will help them develop new interests, learn new skills, and discover more about themselves.

While it's important to start extracurricular activities early in high school, it's never too late to get involved. Students should aim for quality over quantity, focusing on a few activities that truly interest them rather than collecting a long list of clubs and roles.

In addition to extracurricular activities, other important factors in the college admissions process include high school GPA, grades in Advanced Placement or other college-prep classes, the difficulty of the student's curriculum, letters of recommendation, and geographic diversity of the incoming class.

Letters of recommendation

A letter of recommendation is a crucial component of a student's college application. It can make a student stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of admission. Here are some tips for writing an effective letter of recommendation:

Purpose of a Letter of Recommendation:

The purpose of a letter of recommendation is to provide a holistic evaluation of the student, highlighting their strengths, talents, and personality beyond their test scores and grades. It gives admissions officers a more comprehensive understanding of the applicant's character, academic abilities, and potential fit for the university and their chosen major.

Structure and Content:

A letter of recommendation should follow a formal business letter structure and be concise, typically no longer than one page. It should include an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Begin by clearly explaining how you know the student and for how long. This establishes credibility and context for your endorsement. For example, you can mention your role as their teacher, coach, supervisor, or mentor. Providing specific details about your relationship allows the admissions committee to understand the depth of your interaction with the student.

Body:

In the body of the letter, include specific examples, stories, or incidents that showcase the student's character, personal strengths, intellectual interests, integrity, leadership abilities, and resilience in the face of challenges or failures. Describe the student's personality and how they interact with teachers and peers. You can also mention any unique qualities or experiences that will make them a valuable addition to the university community.

Conclude the letter with a sincere and direct recommendation of the student to the specific college or university. Encourage the admissions officers to contact you if they require further information.

Additional Considerations:

• Uniqueness: Make each letter unique to the student. Avoid generic statements that could apply to multiple applicants.
• Balance: Maintain a balance between academic achievements and personal qualities in the letter.
• Tailoring: If possible, tailor the letter to the specific college or major the student is applying to. Highlight why the student is a good fit for that particular program or institution.
• Positivity and Honesty: Write the letter in a positive tone, while also being honest about the student's strengths and weaknesses.
• Professionalism: Use professional language and formatting throughout the letter.

A well-crafted letter of recommendation provides valuable insights into a student's character and potential, helping admissions officers make informed decisions and increasing the student's chances of securing admission to their desired university.

Frequently asked questions