1. College Admission Process
Debra E. Johns
Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Yale University

2. Sources of Information
Websites
Counselors
Peers, family and relatives “word of mouth”
College Publications
Campus Visit
Guidebooks

3. Academic Programs and Genuine Reputation
What is most important?
Fit
Academic Programs and Genuine Reputation
Outcomes
Affordability

4. “The List” Program of Study Location Size “Character”
Financial Considerations
Student’s Qualifications

5. Campus Visit Purpose of Visit
Will vary when in your college search you are visiting the campus
“Fit and feel” of Campus – Can you see yourself there?
Demonstration of your interest to Admission Office – Importance will vary with institution

6. How To Apply Electronic or Paper Application
Common Application and supplements
Deadlines
Early Action
Early Decision
Restrictive Early Action
Regular Decision
Rolling Admissions

7. Application Tips
Have an organized system, including a calendar of events and deadlines for admission, financial aid and/or scholarship. Use a spreadsheet
Work closely with your guidance office
Think of yourself as the manager and director of the college admission process
Know the requirements of the schools on your list EARLY
Allow adequate time to craft the essay
Label everything carefully
KEEP A COPY OF EVERYTHING!
Pick one address to use throughout the process. And be wise about the address

8. The Application Academic Record “Five Solid Academic Courses”
Program as well as performance – appropriate level of challenge
Grade Trends
Demonstration of academic interests outside classroom

9. Standardized Tests SAT, SAT Subject Tests, ACT’s, TOEFL
Changes in SAT I began in March, 2005
Addition of optional writing component to ACT
Test Optional Schools (Fairtest.org)

10. Subjective Information
Extra-Curricular Involvement
Recommendations
Interview
Essay
Quality of writing, evidence of self awareness and confidence
Beware “spell check”

11. “Ground Rules” Neatness counts Deadlines count
There is a difference between presentation and packaging
There is such a thing as “too much” information

12. Decision Process Admission Office Decision Making “Crafting the Class”
“Well rounded students vs. a well rounded class”
Committee vs. Single Reader
Need Blind vs. Need Conscious
The Wait List

13. Decision Process Student’s Decision
Revisit colleges – Take advantage of special programs
Understand financial aid offers
Manage the wait list
Interim Year/PG Year
Make ONE Deposit – by May 1st

14. Helpful Resources www.xap.com www.collegeboard.com

15. Associate Director of Admissions
Thank you!
Debra Johns
Associate Director of Admissions