What is a "Holistic Review" of my College Application?

Many schools use a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they use multiple factors to make decisions.  Academic record, extracurricular interests, intellectual achievements and personal background are all considered.  Colleges want to see if you have challenged yourself by taking a rigorous academic program, in comparison to what is offered at your high school.  They evaluate this by asking your counselor to supply information, which includes your school’s profile.  Admissions officers will also want to know something about your family’s circumstances, your access to resources, and your involvement in activities outside the classroom.  They are looking to gain an understanding of your personality, to best determine how you will fit into their campus and add to its community. 

The purpose of your essay or personal statement is to better understand what motivates you.   Your recommendations are also carefully read to gain an understanding of your intellectual curiosity and promise, how you interact within the classroom, and how you will potentially make an impact on their campus.   

Colleges ask for information on their application for a reason; take care with everything you write.  When you answer an essay question, make sure you answer the question specifically.  Be wary of copy and paste answers used on other applications.  Your application may end up in “committee”, meaning that a group of people will discuss your candidacy. Be authentic and bring out your best.  And, don’t forget that “demonstrated interest” is another part of the application for schools that use holistic admissions.  That means: visit, meet with your representative, and stop by their table at college fairs.  They keep track!

For further assistance, contact us at raviniacollegeconsulting.com

Good luck!