GPA and test scores are no longer the sole predictors of student success for today’s diverse student populations. As student demographics continue to evolve, a growing number of colleges and universities have decided to make standardized tests optional for their applicants. At the same time, institutions increasingly look for ways to identify the best possible matches for their educational programs. For these reasons and many more, colleges and universities are looking beyond the traditional admissions criteria. In the face of such substantial change, more admissions leaders are asking: How do we determine whether an applicant will thrive at my institution?
The answer is holistic admissions, with its broad-based emphasis on the whole student including life skills, experiences and non-academic attributes. With over 20 years of pioneering experience in the discipline, our speakers bring specialized expertise in equity admissions that looks beyond academic performance and preparation measures. Over the course of the workshop, we will help you:
Identify the student populations you would like to more effectively attract
Define non-academic attributes that more strongly predict student retention and success
Develop a supplemental admissions process incorporating research-based and legally vetted questions
Design a validated, objective scoring rubric to gauge applicants’ responses
Conduct personalized onsite training for your staff
Increase awareness of and avoid potential biases
Ensure alignment with your institutional mission and vision
At the conclusion of your holistic Admissions Workshop, you will be prepared to expand your admissions process beyond conventional academic criteria. What’s more, your institution will reap the benefits from welcoming students who bring a broader and more diverse range of experiences, skills and abilities.