Getting into Bentley University

I'm a junior seriously considering Bentley University but I'm a little lost. Can anyone explain what factors they look at during their admission process?

Sure, I'd be happy to provide some insights into what Bentley University might look at during the admission process. Bentley, like many universities, follows a holistic review process. This means that while academics (like your GPA and course rigor) are important, they'll also examine a host of other factors.

Firstly, academic performance is significant. They'll look at your high school grades and the rigor of courses you've taken (think: honors, APs, and IB classes). If your school ranks its students, this could be a factor as well. You can also submit your SAT or ACT scores, but it's up to you since Bentley University is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle.

Extracurriculars are also crucial. Bentley will want to see how you spend your time outside of class. This doesn't necessarily mean you need a long list of activities. What's more important is a high level of involvement and leadership in a few areas that truly interest you. Using the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, having some Tier 1 and 2 activities can significantly boost your application.

Your application essays will give admissions officers a chance to know you on a personal level, beyond your grades and extracurricular involvements. Be sure to write about something personal and unique to you to stand out from other applications.

Lastly, recommendations from teachers and counselors play a significant role as they give a third-person perspective about you. These references can highlight your strengths and personal qualities that aren't immediately apparent from your application.

Do keep in mind that all these elements will weigh differently depending on the specific applicants. There's no prescribed formula as each application is reviewed on its individual merits.

Just to reiterate, perform well academically, partake in meaningful extracurriculars, create a compelling personal essay, and secure strong letters of recommendation. All these aspects, taken together, contribute to the strength of your application to Bentley University.