Register for our webinar: Deep Dive of the 2024 College Admissions Cycle Results

May 16, 2024 at 6:00 PM CT

Learn key takeaways and surprising trends through an in-depth analysis of the 2024 results. We'll share strategies for building a balanced college list based on the latest data and crafting a well-rounded application that stands out in an increasingly competitive environment.

For example, the University of Washington Seattle may have an acceptance rate in the thirties or forties, but the acceptance rate for their computer science program is only around 3%. Similarly, the acceptance rate for popular business programs has decreased significantly in the past few years.

This has several implications for students who are interested in these highly selective majors. First, it means that they need to apply to a wider range of colleges, including some that they may not have considered before. They should not assume that just because a college has a relatively high acceptance rate overall, they will automatically be admitted to their desired major.

Second, students who are interested in these majors need to work even harder to distinguish themselves from the competition. They should aim for top grades, impressive test scores, and a well-rounded resume that includes relevant extracurricular activities, internships, and other experiences.

Finally, students who are interested in these majors need to be prepared to face rejection. Even if they have an impressive academic record and a strong application, the competition for spots in these programs is fierce, and many qualified students will be turned away.

Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of opportunities for students who are interested in highly selective majors. They may need to be more flexible in their college search and consider a wider range of options, but with hard work, determination, and a bit of luck, they can find a college that is the right fit for them.

In some cases, students may even find that they are admitted to a highly selective college despite being rejected from a less selective program at a different college. For example, one student who was denied admission to the computer science program at the University of Texas at Austin was admitted to Stanford. This is a reminder that the college admissions process is unpredictable, and sometimes the best outcomes come from unexpected places.

The rise of highly selective college majors is a new challenge that students need to be aware of when planning their college search. They should be prepared to apply to a wide range of colleges, work hard to distinguish themselves from the competition, and be prepared for the possibility of rejection. With determination, perseverance, and a bit of luck, they can find a college that is the right fit for their interests and aspirations.