For almost 27 years, I have been writing about the changes and nuances in college admissions.
The Supreme Court’s ruling against Harvard University and University of North Carolina could lead to an admissions system that is even more subjective and mysterious, as colleges try to follow the law but also admit a diverse class of students. The Ivy League colleges and universities and BS/MD programs are aware that a diverse class leads the enhanced learning for alumni and future medical doctors.
Officials at some selective institutions have predicted that there would be less emphasis on standardized metrics like test scores and class rank, and more emphasis on personal qualities, told through recommendations and the application essay — the opposite of what many opponents of affirmative action had hoped for.
It would be nearly impossible, however, to eliminate any mention or suggestion of race in the admissions process — starting with applicants’ names. What is certain is that admissions committees can surmise in many cases based on years of reviewing applications and technology, an applicant’s race, cultural background and socio-economic caste.
Additionally, “Landscape”, developed by the College Board, is a tool meant to help admissions offices go beyond test scores and GPAs and considers what applicant have achieved in the context of where they’ve learned and lived.
Another factor (caused indirectly by SCOTUS) that will affect admissions – review of legacy admissions. Applicants whose siblings were admitted will now face admissions committees that will not factor in the legacy component.
What do the above changes mean for the college admissions environment for high school classes: 2024, 2025 and 2026?
My firm, in predicting the outcome, has already developed strategies and an admissions network and contacts to further increase our clients’ chances of admissions!…If you believe that your child’s chances will not be affected by the SCOTUS decision, think again! We have had meetings with BS/MD program and Ivy League admissions officers and understand how the decision will affect student applications!
Dr. Paul Reginald Lowe, founder and managing director of Pinnacle Educational Center Admissions Advisors Group, provides comprehensive counseling advice, exclusively for admissions to top private schools; Ivy League and highly-selective colleges/universities; BS/MD programs; graduate and medical schools and top visual and performing arts programs. Ivy League Admissions Advisors specializes in admissions to Ivy League and highly selective colleges. BS/MD Admissions Advisors specializes in admissions to top BS/MD programs – Brown PLME, UPitts, RPI/AMC, Rochester – REMS, etc. Dr. Lowe also specializes in helping students who have been wait-listed, deferred or rejected gain admission into their top-choice schools: College Application Rejected. and student who wish to transfer to another college: College Transfer Admissions Advisors.
Dr. Paul Lowe - Admissions Expert 