The college admissions process has been evolving faster than ever. This is due to the increase in early action, the optional nature of standardized testing, and an overall improvement in students’ academic performance. This change in process can be overwhelming to students and parents because it is different from what past grades have filled out.
Students in the class of ’26 at GBHS filled out a poll asking about the stress level of filling out college applications, and the average number was a 9 out of 10. When asked why, students responded with the issue of how early applications are due.
Applying early to schools doesn’t guarantee a higher chance of getting in, but it doesn’t hurt. Applying early action has become the norm for a lot of students and schools. According to the U.S. News & World Report, Florida State University’s early acceptance rate is 47%. While the regular decision acceptance rate is 15%.
Getting these applications done at the beginning of the year can be stressful due to the amount of time it takes up. Senior Graham Newsome says, “Early action deadlines give little room for free time at the moment.”
The college application has become a long and tedious process. Common App has been a good outlet for students. It makes sure all their application things are organized. Filling out the Common App can take up to two months, plus, according to U.S. News & World Report
One of the big changes is that schools around 2020 started going test-optional, but most schools have gone back to wanting a score from either the ACT or SAT. These standardized tests are used to show colleges your testing abilities.
“The ACT and SAT are good indicators of your ability to be admitted into a school. However, the test is more about knowing the tricks rather than actual intellect.” States Newsome. These tests were originally used to scale students’ intelligence, but now it’s more if you know how to take a test.
Senior Rigby Whitley’s piece of advice to current juniors is “Start as early as possible and make sure you have everything organized in your junior year.”
The application process continues to change, but one thing that will stay consistent is the stress and pressure students feel from deadlines.
Piece of advice to seniors from teacher Mr. Killam “Make sure you do things you enjoy and that make you stand out. Go on that mission trip, volunteer at the youth center, become involved in something at school that isn’t necessarily academic.”