So, you're thinking about applying to highly selective colleges. You've heard the stories, seen the admission percentages, and maybe even dreamt about walking across the quad at one of these schools. But what exactly does it mean to apply to a "highly selective" college? More importantly, how can you set yourself up for success in this competitive process? Don't worry—you're in the right place. For an insider’s perspective, join our Secrets of Highly Selective Admissions webinar with Samantha O’Brien from Yale University on Monday, September 16 at 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT. You don’t need to be applying to Yale to benefit—the tips and advice will be relevant to the admissions process at many top schools.
Let’s break it all down.
What Are "Highly Selective" Colleges?
First, let’s define what we mean by highly selective. In simple terms, these are schools with an acceptance rate below 15-20%. But here’s something important: highly selective doesn’t necessarily mean better. It just means that these schools receive a lot of applications, and the number of spots remains limited. While these colleges get a lot of attention, there are many other great schools out there that might be a better fit for you.
The Impact of Test-Optional Policies
Let’s talk about something that’s been a hot topic since the pandemic: test-optional admissions. When schools started going test-optional, it had a major impact on the admissions landscape. Suddenly, students who might’ve avoided applying to selective schools because of lower test scores felt encouraged to take a chance. That led to a huge increase in applications—some schools saw a 35% jump—which made these already competitive schools even more so.
But here’s the thing: test-optional doesn’t mean test-ignored. If you’ve got a strong SAT or ACT score, send it in. A solid test score can still give your application a boost, especially as some schools are starting to shift back toward requiring them.
It’s Not Just the Ivy League Anymore
When you hear "highly selective colleges," your mind probably goes straight to big names like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. But it’s not just those schools anymore. The competition has expanded to public schools like the University of California system and top state universities. Schools like UCLA, the University of Virginia, and the University of Texas at Austin now have acceptance rates as low as some Ivy League schools, especially for popular majors like computer science or business.
The takeaway? Many schools that used to be more accessible are now in the "highly selective" category, too.
The Role of Your Major in Admissions
Did you know that your choice of major could impact your chances of getting into college? Some popular majors—like computer science, business, engineering, and pre-med—are more competitive because so many students apply to study them. That means if you're applying for one of these in-demand fields, you're likely facing stiffer competition.
But don’t worry—there are lots of other majors out there that aren’t as crowded. Applying for a less competitive major could improve your chances of getting in, but be careful—only do this if you're genuinely excited about that field of study. Colleges aren’t too keen on students trying to "bait-and-switch" by applying to a less competitive major with plans to transfer into a more selective one later. Many schools have strict rules about changing majors after you're admitted for high-demand programs like computer science or business. So, if you’re thinking of this strategy, it's important to check the school's policies—you might find it's not as easy as it sounds.
Building a Balanced College List
Now that you know how competitive highly selective schools can be, it’s super important to build a balanced college list. Sure, it’s exciting to dream big and include a few reach schools, but make sure you also have a good mix of target and likely schools. A target school is one where your academic profile matches the average admitted student, and a likely school is one where your stats are above the average.
Here’s a tip: don’t just focus all your attention on those highly selective schools—spend time really getting to know your target and likely schools, too! There are so many amazing schools where you can thrive and get an incredible education.
Do Extracurriculars Really Matter?
Absolutely. In fact, once you get past the academic review (grades, rigor of courses, and test scores), what you’ve done outside of the classroom can make or break your application. Admissions officers look for students who have demonstrated initiative and impact—students who didn’t just participate in clubs but took leadership roles, started new projects, or created change in their communities.
But remember, it’s not about quantity. You don’t need to be involved in 10 clubs to impress admissions officers. Focus on depth over breadth. What are you passionate about? Where have you made an impact? That’s what colleges want to see.
The Role of Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA)
Early Decision (ED) can give you a boost at highly selective schools. By applying ED, you’re telling the school that it’s your top choice and that if you’re accepted, you’ll definitely go. Because of that commitment, some schools have higher acceptance rates for ED applicants. However, while ED can improve your chances, it’s important to choose a school where your academic profile aligns with that of their admitted students. ED won’t turn a big reach into a sure thing, but it can increase your odds at schools where you’re already a strong candidate.
Also, remember that ED is binding, so you should apply only if you’re absolutely sure the school is the right fit for you, and your family can handle the cost. A helpful tool is the school’s Net Price Calculator, which can give you an idea of what your financial aid package might look like. This way, you’ll know early on whether the school is affordable and avoid any surprises later.
If you want to apply early but aren’t ready to commit, there’s also Early Action (EA). It’s non-binding, meaning you can apply early and show interest without having to commit if you’re accepted. Many schools offer both ED and EA, so make sure you’re clear on the rules and deadlines for each.
Your Application Is More Than Just Numbers
At the end of the day, applying to a highly selective college is about telling your story. Yes, grades, test scores, and extracurriculars matter, but so do your essays, letters of recommendation, and maybe even your demonstrated interest in the school. Your application should paint a picture of who you are and what you can bring to a college campus.
So, what’s the takeaway? Highly selective colleges are competitive for everyone, but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach. If you build a balanced college list, focus on what you can control (like your grades and extracurriculars), and apply to schools that are a good fit for your interests and strengths, you’ll set yourself up for success. And remember, no matter where you end up, you’ll have the opportunity to grow, learn, and make an impact.
Good luck!
Don’t Miss Our Webinar for Even More Tips!
To learn more about standing out in the competitive world of highly selective college admissions, don’t forget to attend our webinar, Secrets of Highly Selective Admissions, featuring Samantha O’Brien from Yale University. Join us on Monday, September 16 at 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT for expert insights and actionable tips that will give you an edge in the admissions process. Click here to register! You won’t want to miss it!
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