How Colleges Review Applications

There’s a lot that goes into admissions decisions. Colleges look to fill an incoming class with students who align with the mission of the school and fill institutional priorities. How each college reviews applications varies depending on the selectivity of the school, the size of the school and the budget of the admissions office.   Some colleges emphasize grades and test scores, while others take a more holistic approach, looking at the whole student. Understanding the different types of admissions review can help you prepare strong applications and apply strategically. 

1. Holistic Review 

Many colleges, especially selective ones, use a holistic process. This means they consider the whole applicant, not just grades and test scores. 

• What they look at: academic record, standardized test scores (if submitted), essays, extracurricular involvement, recommendations, and sometimes interviews. 

• Goal: to understand who you are as a student and a person, including your potential contributions to the campus community. 

• What this means for you: Every part of your application matters. Use your essays and activities section to show personality, values, and growth. 

2. Academic or Quantitative Review 

Some colleges—especially large public universities—rely heavily on numbers-based criteria. 

• What they look at: GPA, class rank, course rigor, and test scores. 

• Goal: to assess whether you meet established academic thresholds for admission. 

• What this means for you: Strong grades and coursework are key. While essays and activities may still be considered, they typically play a smaller role. 

3. Committee-Based Review 

At certain selective institutions, applications are read by two or more admissions officers at once in a committee-style process. 

• What they look at: Both readers evaluate and discuss your file in real time, ensuring multiple perspectives. 

• Goal: to balance fairness and efficiency while making nuanced decisions. 

• What this means for you: Your application will be reviewed in-depth and compared to others in context. Presenting a clear, cohesive story across all materials is essential. 

4. Open or Rolling Admissions 

Some schools have open admissions policies, admitting all students who meet basic requirements (such as having a high school diploma). Others use rolling admissions, reviewing applications as they come in. 

• What they look at: Basic academic eligibility; sometimes additional materials depending on the program. 

• Goal: to make higher education more accessible or to fill seats as applications arrive. 

• What this means for you: Apply early! In rolling admissions, earlier applications often have better chances since spots fill quickly. 

5. Specialized or Program-Based Review 

Applicants to programs such as arts, nursing, engineering, or honors colleges may go through an additional review. 

• What they look at: Portfolios, auditions, prerequisite coursework, or separate essays. 

• Goal: to assess readiness and fit for a specialized program. 

• What this means for you: Be sure to check program-specific requirements and give yourself plenty of time to prepare supplemental materials. 

Once you start to understand the admissions decision process, you can make informed decisions on where to focus your attention and how to present your application. You can find information about how your application will be reviewed on the admissions website.