Understanding RCAD acceptance rate

Just doing some research and Ringling College of Art and Design (RCAD) caught my eye. But I'm getting a bit confused about their acceptance rates. How weighting should I put on a school’s acceptance rate when it comes to applying?

Acceptance rate, while a helpful metric to consider, certainly isn't the only one that should guide your admission pursuits. The acceptance rate can sometimes be an indicator of a school's competitiveness, but it doesn't necessarily reflect the quality of education or student experience you may have nor does it necessarily predict your own chances of getting in.

Ringling College of Art and Design, for instance, is a highly specialized institution that may have a fairly low acceptance rate; however, this rate mainly reflects the number of applications received in relation to spots available, rather than the institution's educational merits or the quality of its programs. Also, acceptance rates can fluctuate year by year depending on various factors like the number of applicants, school popularity, and changes within the institution.

You should primarily focus on how the school aligns with your career and academic interests, personal growth, and financial needs. Look at factors like academic programs and majors offered, location, size, extracurricular opportunities, support services, and culture/vibe of the campus when considering a school.

That being said, it’s completely normal to use rates as initial filters in your college search. Some students use high acceptance rates as initial filters in their college search because they may indicate a higher likelihood of getting in. But remember, many factors come into play in the admissions review process—such as your GPA, standardized test scores, extracurriculars, and personal essays—so a school with a lower acceptance rate shouldn't discourage you from applying if you're genuinely interested in their programs and community. It's all about finding the right fit!