Can you help me understand what a 'holistic' admissions process means?

Hi! I've heard that many colleges have a 'holistic' admissions process, but I'm not exactly sure what that means. Can you explain what it entails and how it might affect my chances of getting accepted? Thanks!

Hi there! I'd be happy to help you understand what a 'holistic' admissions process means. In a nutshell, a holistic admissions process is one where colleges consider the whole applicant, not just their grades and test scores. They take into account various factors such as personal qualities, background, extracurricular activities, and life experiences, among others. The idea is to get a more comprehensive view of each applicant and make more informed decisions about who would be a good fit for their institution. So, rather than just focusing on academic achievements, colleges with a holistic approach also look at your unique qualities that could contribute to their community and culture. This can affect your chances of getting accepted in several ways. For one, having a diverse range of experiences and qualities can help you stand out from other applicants with similar academic profiles. On the other hand, if your grades and test scores aren't as strong, a holistic review could still provide you with an opportunity to showcase your strengths in other areas, potentially improving your chances of acceptance. In short, a holistic admissions process gives you the chance to present a more well-rounded picture of yourself to the admissions committee. Best of luck with your applications!