Testing and Your Transcript
At my association’s conference that I attended earlier this month (IECA), I had the opportunity to attend a seminar with college admissions representatives from respected institutions (e.g., Boston College, Tufts, Allegheny…etc.), varying in size and selectivity, shedding some light on how they read their applications.
Although there were some similarities in what they expressed there were also differences, which allows you to come to the conclusion that each school is its own entity, making its own decisions on what students they are looking for and how they evaluate their application packages.
Testing
• High test scores and a low GPA can be a red flag in viewing a students potential vs. what they have achieved
• If you’re going test optional ED may be your best plan
• Considering test scores in context does matter (e.g., low income students having lower test scores)
Transcript
• There is value in taking all 5 core courses all 4 years (i.e., English, history, science, math and a foreign language) – This varies by school and can ask the admissions representative
• Number of AP classes that a student has taken out of the total offered
• Electives are great in addition to the core course’s
• Grade trends are important to see an improvement in the later years vs. a down turn
• Tufts – Business program, taking Calculus in high school is very important
• Physics and calculus at highly selective colleges has become very important for students to complete in high school
If you have any questions about the college admissions process or the above information please do not hesitate to contact me at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946.
