Hi, I've come across the term 'yield protection' while researching college admissions. Can someone please explain what it means and how it affects the admissions process? Thanks for your help!
Hello! Yield protection, also known as 'Tufts Syndrome,' is a term used to describe a practice in which colleges and universities may deny or waitlist high-achieving applicants who they believe are likely to be admitted to more prestigious schools and choose to attend those schools instead. The main goal of yield protection is to maintain or improve a college's yield rate (the percentage of accepted students who decide to enroll).
Higher yield rates can improve a college's ranking, which in turn can attract more applicants, resources, and positive recognition. This means that colleges might favor applicants who have demonstrated a strong interest in their school and are more likely to attend if accepted.
To avoid being affected by yield protection, it's important to show genuine interest in each school you apply to. Visiting campuses, attending college fairs, and interacting with admissions representatives can all help demonstrate your interest. You should also take the opportunity to express your interest in a school's unique programs, culture, and values in your application essays.
I hope this clarifies yield protection for you. Good luck on your college journey!
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