Hello everyone, I am a junior aiming for Yale but I'm not sure if I fully grasp their entry requirements. Can anyone walk me through all the components I should focus on? To what extent do leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and standardized test scores play in the admissions office's decisions?
First, you'll need to complete Yale's Base First-Year Application, which involves filling out the Common Application, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge National College Match Application. You'll also need your school report with transcript and counselor letter, two teacher recommendations, and your mid-year report. It's important to choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your abilities and character.
When it comes to standardized testing, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, Yale has reinstated their requirement for either the SAT or the ACT. You don't need to submit both, just choose the one where you fit into Yale's average scores.
Yale views applications holistically, but there are two prominent components: academic performance and what they call "impact and leadership". For the former aspect, Yale expects strong performance in a rigorous high school curriculum. However, your GPA by itself won't make or break your application. Yale uses something called the Academic Index to help assess a student's academic credentials, comprised of your grades, test scores, and class rank (if available).
For the latter aspect - "impact and leadership" - Yale is looking for your engagement beyond academics. You are expected to excel in extracurricular activities, preferably showing depth and dedication rather than breadth. Specific leadership roles can be valuable, especially if you've made a tangible impact in these roles. The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars will give you an idea of what colleges like Yale are looking for. It's great to offer leadership or have impressive accomplishments in high-ranking Tier 1 and 2 activities. However, having Tier 3 and 4 activities that you're really passionate about can still be valuable.
Lastly, your personal essays play a crucial role in showcasing who you are beyond your achievements. The experience and insights you communicate in your essays can set you apart from other candidates with similar academic profiles and extracurricular accomplishments.
I hope this offers some clarity and helps guide your application preparation. Best of luck!
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