FOUR Trends in College Admissions YOU Should Know About
The college admissions landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by new technologies, changing policies, and a growing emphasis on the "whole student."
After reading Sarah Hernholm’s Forbes article on trends in college admissions, I wanted to summarize its key findings and share some additional insights. These trends highlight opportunities for students to tailor their applications and prepare for an increasingly dynamic admissions process.
1. The Staying Power of Test-Optional Policies
What she says: Test-optional admissions policies, which gained momentum during the pandemic, are now a standard at many institutions, offering students flexibility in showcasing their academic achievements. While over 1,800 colleges have adopted test-optional policies, some schools, like MIT, have reinstated test score requirements for specific reasons, such as assessing academic preparedness for STEM fields.
What I think: For students, the decision to submit test scores depends on their unique profile. Strong scores can elevate an application at test-required or test-optional schools, but a well-rounded application focusing on grades, extracurriculars, and essays can be just as impactful.
2. AI’s Growing Role in College Admissions
What she says: AI tools like Scoir and MaiaLearning help students research colleges more efficiently, while platforms like ChatGPT assist with brainstorming essay ideas. On the admissions side, universities are using AI to streamline application reviews and identify standout candidates. However, concerns about equity and bias persist, and colleges are starting to adopt AI detection tools to ensure essays reflect students' authentic voices.
What I think: While AI tools can be helpful, they should enhance rather than replace a student’s personal input. Admissions officers value authenticity, so it’s critical for students to use their unique voice in essays and avoid over-reliance on AI-generated content.
3. The Shift Toward Holistic Applications
What she says: Colleges are increasingly adopting holistic reviews, emphasizing personal essays, extracurricular activities, and leadership experiences. Students are encouraged to demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a commitment to their communities through meaningful, sustained efforts.
What I think: Authenticity and consistency are key. Admissions officers can recognize when activities are pursued solely to "look good" on an application. Students should focus on what genuinely excites them and seek opportunities to make a tangible impact in areas they care about.
4. The Rise of Career-Oriented Programs
What she says: More universities are offering experiential learning opportunities, like co-op programs, internships, and partnerships with industry leaders. Schools such as Northeastern University have long embraced these programs, with their co-op system consistently preparing students for the workforce. At the same time, liberal arts colleges continue to emphasize transferable skills like critical thinking and communication, which remain highly valued by employers.
What I say: When choosing a college, students should consider how its programs align with their career goals. Whether through co-ops, internships, or mentorship networks, hands-on experiences provide a significant advantage in today’s competitive job market.
The college admissions process in 2025 is more nuanced than ever, giving students a chance to highlight their strengths in new ways. From leveraging test-optional policies and AI tools to focusing on authentic experiences and career preparation, students have multiple paths to craft standout applications.
Stay informed about changes in the admissions landscape and evaluate how each trend aligns with your goals. With thoughtful planning, these trends can be opportunities to shine. Schedule a call with us here to learn more about how we help student's navigate the admissions landscape.
Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas
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