How will enrollment for last year impact the class of 2024?

The past three admissions cycles were arguably among the most uncertain years, given so many changes thrust not only on admission but on the world. As a result, we saw longer admissions cycles, including deferrals that turned into admissions and increased waitlists that lingered and then disappeared. 

This year, colleges have a much better handle on reading applications without test scores or typical extracurricular activities that were impacted by COVID. Students' transcripts, e.g. rigor, trends, performance, and letters of recommendation help colleges put students in context and determine how they compare to others within their high school. 

They will continue to use enrollment management to shape the class and data analytics to determine "yieldability" of students. They also will continue to put more emphasis on character and how students engage with the world and community.

Regarding the test-optional trend, most college admission counselors have said that they've gotten really good at reading applications without tests, but they will still consider them if it helps the student. 

Lastly, the big question for seniors right now: should I send my scores? 

Bischoff from Case Western Reserve University says don't just consider whether the composite ACT or total SAT score is within the 50% range, consider whether the subscores support the preparation of their major. Colleges are not as concerned if an engineering applicant has a lower than 50% English score as long as their math/science score is strong; similarly, if an art major has a lower math score, it's not as important. While this may not be true at all schools, it's something else students can weigh when deciding to use or not to use their scores this year. 

Recently, Lisa, Abby, and Stefanie led a conversation about College Admissions Trends, how they have impacted applicants, and what to expect in the upcoming application cycle. The video is below and on our YouTube channel.

Many colleges allow students to self-report test scores during the application process and only require sending official score reports when the student enrolls.

Please check college-specific policies detailed in a blog post from Compass Education Group:

In most cases, if you must send official test scores to colleges such as Stony Brook or Georgetown, your application isn't considered complete until received. While most schools allow leeway for the scores to arrive after your application has been submitted, we still strongly recommend sending test scores NOW.

Below are videos showing how to do it.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Requirements vary, and it is very important that you check and follow the policy set by each individual school. The CSS/PROFILE applications opened on October 1st, and the FAFSA, which is delayed this year because of new changes, will open in December (date TBD).

If you cannot find the information on the school website (Admissions page, Tuition and Fees, or Financial Aid page), call the Financial Aid office directly..

When applying for financial aid, the FAFSA and CSS Profile for the academic year 2024-25 use tax data from the calendar year 2022. If you have special circumstances for 2023, you will have to contact colleges to let them know that you have a lower family income than reflected in 2022 tax returns. Here's a great, free nonprofit resource for doing that: 

Rick Clark, Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Undergraduate Admission at Georgia Tech, explains the three messages we need to hear right now:

1. Admission Math. It’s the same as regular math.

2. Adulting is hard at times. 

3. Admission is not fair.