Admit it. The new math

Admit it, numbers and statistics concerning the college admission process are compiling faster and faster in our media-driven society. With the January undergraduate applications deadlines completed, many people are already turning their attention to the 2011-2012 admission cycle.  Crisp Consulting + Coaching discussed forthcoming trends last week in Admit it.  In this post we would like to dissect some of these statistics that continue to change the undergraduate admission process.  The numbers may seem overwhelming at first but they are needed to understand the full scope of the upcoming admission cycle.

1+1 =13 = 0.  7, 10, 16, 18 is the sequence of rising percentages in college applications.  Everyone from the New York Times to Inside Higher Education continues to report a growing number of applications to colleges and universities.  As we noted last week, the rise in applications can be contributed to a growing number of American high school students coupled with the submission of multiple applications.  Although this is great business for colleges, it may not be the best for applicants as their chances of being deferred, denied or wait listed also increases.  The Detroit Free Press recently reported that large universities like The University of Michigan are being more cautious with admittance.  In this case, more does not equal more.


The common denominator. The Common Application continues its growth as record number of students submit applications via this internet portal.  On December 1, 2010 there were 3.5 submissions per second.  The Common Application accounts for two-thirds of all applications.  Although accessibility makes multiple submissions easier, it is equally as easy to make uniform applications in a process that requires students to be unique.

C<.  China continues to be an unknown variable in the admission process.  In 2009-2010 Chinese students constituted 40,000 applicants and the number is projected to grow substantially over the next few years.  China’s rigorous education system coupled with its growing economy make these students desirable.  Chinese students will contribute to the existing strengths of the U.S. higher education system where multi-disciplinary studies and innovations are stalwarts.

These trends and how well you understand their impacts will affect your application. Yet, with a thorough focus on academic, financial and social fit there is no need for frenzy and anxiety. There are some factors that will serve you well in the college admission process. Plan ahead,  strive for the best academic performance, get involved in your school and community and seek successful strategies in the admission process.

Brian D. Crisp is an independent educational consultant working with families in Asheville, Charleston, and Savannah  to optimize and realize their unique educational fit and admission success.  As a former professor, administrator, and teacher,  Brian has the knowledge and skills to counsel families in all aspects of educational planning.