College Admissions: Our Predictions for 2024

Now that we have reflected on the shifting landscape of college admissions in 2023, let’s look ahead to 2024 and three key predictions for the upcoming year. Our commitment to staying ahead of these trends ensures that we provide the most comprehensive and effective guidance to our students, helping them navigate their journey to college with confidence and success. As we close out the year, we’re especially proud of our growth at Top Tier Admissions to better serve our students and their families.

2024: OUR PREDICTIONS

Early Decision will be the new Regular Decision

Watching the steady, and at times explosive, growth in early admission pools – both binding ED and non-binding EA programs – expect to see admit rates from both programs drop precipitously. Non-binding EA programs are booming with tens of thousands of applications at private universities like USC and Northeastern, and flagship public universities like Michigan, UVA, and UNC. Add to that, pressures to reduce the number of spots in the first-year class given to ED applicants, as Cornell has done this cycle, and what was once seen as an admissions advantage for applicants may not be for much longer.

More students choosing to not report test scores

Early data shared by the Common App shows meaningful growth in the numbers of applicants choosing not to report test scores. Compared to this point last year, more students are choosing to not report test scores than to report scores for the first time since the pandemic disrupted the 2020-2021 admissions year.  Non-score reporters now make up 52% of Common Applications submitted, up 14% from a similar date last year. Although scores still carry weight at most of the nation’s very top schools, expect to see continued growth in the numbers of students who choose not to submit scores.

Direct Admissions programs put students in the driver’s seat

Direct admissions programs, like the ones offered by Common App, Niche and Concourse Global, allow students to be accepted to participating schools based on their profiles, eliminating the need for an application. As the public and media focus on “highly rejective” colleges, there’s a sea change underway. Direct admissions programs are about highlighting opportunity rather than promoting hyper selectivity and seemingly insurmountable barriers to entry. 

BETTERING OURSELVES FOR OUR COMMUNITY

This year has been particularly special at Top Tier Admissions as we expanded our team of academic and standardized test tutors and introduced new programs to respond to our families’ needs–providing unparalleled support and guidance to even more students.

One of our flagship programs, Top Tier Futures, took center stage in 2023 as our Senior Private Counselors extended their expertise to students as early as the 4th grade. Recognizing the pivotal time when young minds begin to explore their academic interests and dive into extracurricular activities, our seasoned TTA counselors offered personalized, unlimited-time access to help shape their educational path, laying the foundation for future college admissions success.

In response to the diverse needs of our students, Top Tier Admissions launched another groundbreaking initiative — Executive Functioning Tutoring and ADHD Support. Tailored for students in grade 4 through graduate school, this program focuses on developing essential executive functioning skills. By fostering skills such as time management, organization, and task initiation, we empower students to overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential in both academic and personal pursuits.

Our digital initiatives, such as our new Instagram account, and educational webinars, like our popular Women of Dartmouth event, “The Shifting Landscape of College Admissions,” are a testament to our commitment to reaching and supporting our larger community.

While Top Tier’s original Application Boot Camp® is well established, we were excited to announce our Application Boot Camp® 2025 for current sophomores. This will mark our 22^nd year offering our critically-acclaimed intensive program.

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue serving you—our Top Tier community. Cheers to another year of growth, success, and educational excellence!

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