Trends in College Admissions for Class of 2022
As our class of 2022 practice their pomp and circumstance, let's reflect on the 2021-2022 admissions cycle and share our wisdom with the parents of rising high school students.
This we know…
The number of applicants and the number of applications each applicant submits are on a rising trend. Common App data reports applicants rose by 13% and the number of applications rose by 22% in this admission cycle.
We strive to understand test-optional policies and patterns and how they affect admissions.
Deferments and Waitlist were more common than any prior cycles
International applicants are on the rise as COVID restrictions ease.
Gap Year students are settling in, and the transfer portal is bursting.
Our value and ROI may be more of concern in this economic cycle.
Solving for X or Y…
Finding that value starts with doing your due diligence. Invest the time up front getting to know what your child needs and wants and understand why and what they want to accomplish in the next four years. The admission data provides insight for the college advisor, to help guide students in admission strategies and navigating the application. The real work to find the optimal schools to apply to remains within the student.
The college planning process is all about your child’s journey in transitioning to independence, learning balance between academic and social, and a passion to earn a degree toward a profession. It is an evolving process of taking inventory of learning, values, perception, emotional intelligence that your child needs to thrive. With self-knowledge comes confidence in decision-making that is crucial in all segments of this journey.
The other side to this decision or value in the solution, is getting to know the colleges your child is applying to. Online resources and colleges have made an industry of virtual tours, informational sessions, in person visits, open houses and more. Again, invest your time in understanding programs that are of interest and listen to current students share their experiences in navigating services and support at the university. Spend time observing the campus during the week and on the weekend. What are students engaged in? Are they friendly?
Lastly, do not underestimate the power of reflection and a good writing coach. The reflection, communication, expression of ideas and experiences needs to be done to be ready for applications and scholarships required writing. How a student tells a story, selects 100 characters for an activity entry will be considered at every college he/she applies to. The ability to go beyond the resume is another crucial task.
This past school year, I have had the pleasure of working with some incredible seniors from across the greater Pittsburgh area as well as guiding my own son through his college admissions journey. My greatest task and reward in my role as their college coach is instilling confidence and pride in their value in why their application theme is worthy of a match. Because the match (acceptance/commitment) is just the beginning, the confidence and self-awareness will follow them through their transition, and I hope they know they will always have the people of Axios Tutoring who are proud to be a part of their admissions story.
Best of Luck the newly committed Class of 2026!
