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The holistic admissions review process in the United States takes into account various aspects of a student’s application beyond just their test scores and grades, as it recognizes that a student’s potential and abilities cannot be solely determined by their academic performance. A holistic review also recognizes that academic achievements alone are not an indicator of a student’s ability to contribute to the university community, so it takes into account various aspects of their life, including extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership roles, personal challenges overcome, and unique talents or skills.

Universities in the US consider a range of factors such as extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, community service, personal essays, recommendation letters, and sometimes even interviews. This approach aims to evaluate applicants as well-rounded individuals with unique talents, passions, and perspectives. 

The US concept of holistic admissions is indeed unique, primarily because it stems from a distinct understanding of the fundamental purpose of a college education. Unlike many other countries, where higher education is often viewed as a means to acquire specialized knowledge and skills for future employment, the US approach emphasizes the broader development of an individual.

By considering a holistic approach to admissions, universities can identify individuals who possess unique qualities and diverse experiences that can contribute positively to the campus community.

This is why although accepting students with lower GPAs and standardized test scores may seem counterintuitive at first, as these metrics are often considered indicators of academic success, universities like Stanford have recognized that a student’s potential cannot be solely determined by these numbers, as they recently reported that in a recent admissions cycle, nearly 1 out of 3 students enrolled at Stanford had less than a 4.0 GPA when they were accepted.

By starting to work with students as early as fifth grade, leading education consultancy firm Zenith Prep Academy identifies their students’ academic and extracurricular strengths at a young age, instills a sense of self-awareness and purpose, and helps their students hone their unique talents and interests. This early exploration and discovery process allows families to make informed decisions about their child’s educational journey.

Zenith Prep Academy believes that building a strong offense is crucial for students to stand out in the highly competitive college admissions process. By focusing on developing a well-rounded profile, they equip students with the necessary skills and experiences to excel academically and personally.  

In highly saturated applicant pools, where candidates often possess similar academic achievements and test scores, what students pursue outside the classroom becomes a crucial factor in differentiating individuals. While measurables like grades and standardized test scores provide valuable insights into a student’s academic abilities, they do not paint a complete picture of their potential for success.

Published By: Aize Perez