Located in the scenic town of Hanover, Dartmouth College is renowned for its strong focus on undergraduate education, close community, and academic rigor. These qualities make it a standout in the Ivy League. Each year, CollegePass students successfully navigate Dartmouth's detailed admissions process, consistently securing their places among its distinguished student body
Holistic Review Returns to Include Standardized Testing
Dartmouth College prides itself on a holistic admissions process that evaluates candidates beyond mere academic achievements. The College seeks students who bring diverse perspectives, leadership, community engagement, and a palpable desire to contribute positively to the world. “We look for individuals who are not just academically capable but also demonstrate a vibrant commitment to their communities and an innate intellectual curiosity,” says a Dartmouth admissions officer.
Following a temporary test-optional policy, Dartmouth has reinstated standardized testing requirements, reflecting its commitment to a multifaceted review process. For the Class of 2029 and beyond, applicants will once again include SAT or ACT scores with their submissions. This change underscores Dartmouth’s holistic approach by considering a wide array of factors, including academic records, test scores, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular involvement.
The Crucial Components of Dartmouth’s Application
Academic rigor remains paramount, with the expectation that applicants pursue a challenging high school curriculum. Admissions officers value engagement with AP, IB, or honors courses, seeing them as indicators of a student’s readiness for Dartmouth’s demanding academic environment.
Essays and recommendations offer a window into the applicant’s character and potential. Personal statements and Dartmouth-specific supplemental essays allow candidates to share their unique stories and aspirations. Meanwhile, recommendations from teachers and counselors shed light on the student’s academic and personal attributes.
Extracurricular involvement is also a key component, reflecting the applicant's ability to contribute to Dartmouth's dynamic community. Whether through leadership roles, community service, or other pursuits, active engagement outside the classroom is highly valued.
Democratizing Education: Financial Aid and Scholarships
Dartmouth’s commitment to accessibility and affordability in education is evident in its financial aid policies. Offering need-blind admissions for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented students, Dartmouth ensures that financial circumstances do not affect admission decisions. The College meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for every admitted student through scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
For international students, Dartmouth offers need-based financial aid, although the admissions process is need-aware for this group. This approach aims to support as many students as possible within the constraints of available funding.
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Preparing for Dartmouth: Advice for Applicants
As Dartmouth resumes its consideration of standardized test scores, students are encouraged to plan accordingly. However, Dartmouth’s admissions philosophy emphasizes more than just academic achievement. “We seek individuals eager to engage with the Dartmouth community, ready to challenge themselves and grow,” notes the admissions officer.
Prospective students are advised to delve deeply into their interests, embrace leadership opportunities, and consider how they can contribute to Dartmouth and the broader world. Engaging stories from current Dartmouth students underscore the transformative potential of this approach, demonstrating the myriad ways students can make their mark.
Dartmouth Admissions: Where Old Meets New
Dartmouth College’s approach to admissions is a delicate balance between celebrating academic achievement and fostering personal growth. By reinstating standardized testing while maintaining a holistic review, Dartmouth affirms its commitment to assembling a diverse and dynamic student body. For those navigating the admissions process, understanding Dartmouth’s values and criteria is crucial to presenting a compelling application. With a clear view of what Dartmouth seeks, applicants can approach their submissions with confidence, ready to take the first step towards an enriching collegiate experience that prepares them for leadership in a rapidly evolving world.
Discover how to stand out in your Dartmouth application—talk to an advisor today.

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Decoding Dartmouth: Ivy League Admissions Guide

Decoding Dartmouth: A Strategic Guide for High Schoolers Eyeing the Ivy League

Dive into Stanford's admissions philosophy and learn how intellectual vitality can secure your place at this elite Ivy Plus institution. Explore how your passion for learning and innovation distinguishes you in the highly competitive landscape of top-tier universities.
Nestled in the heart of California's Silicon Valley, Stanford University isn't just an institution but a crucible of innovation, entrepreneurship, and scholarly excellence. Here, among the technological titans and startup savants, Stanford stands as a beacon for high school students and parents globally. With an acceptance rate that sometimes dips below 5%, cracking Stanford’s admissions code is both an art and a science, requiring more than just top grades and a slew of extracurriculars. This is a place where a profound passion for learning, often referred to as intellectual vitality, is just as crucial as the numbers on your transcript. This guide, peppered with fresh insights from recent admits, aims to demystify the path to Stanford, emphasizing the importance of intellectual vitality alongside other critical admissions elements.
Stanford's Holistic Admissions Approach
At the heart of Stanford's admissions philosophy lies a holistic review process. This isn't about ticking boxes or meeting benchmarks. Stanford is on the lookout for individuals who bring a dynamic blend of academic prowess and extracurricular depth—students who embody the essence of intellectual vitality. This comprehensive approach ensures that applications are not just seen but felt, reflecting not only achievements but character and potential contributions to the vibrant Stanford community.
Navigating Standardized Testing
At Stanford, standardized testing is just one of many components that can highlight academic preparedness. As part of our holistic review process, every element of the application is carefully considered. We do not have minimum test scores required for admission, nor is there any score that guarantees acceptance.
Test-Optional Policy
For first-year and transfer students applying in the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic years, submitting ACT or SAT scores is not mandatory. This test-optional approach will also apply to applicants for the Fall 2025 entry term. We want to assure applicants that the absence of ACT or SAT scores will not disadvantage them in any way. During previous test-optional cycles, we have admitted students both with and without test scores.
Reporting Test Scores
Should you decide to include ACT or SAT scores in your application, we recommend that you self-report your highest scores in the testing section of the application. While you are welcome to have official scores sent to Stanford, it is not a requirement for our review process. We are equipped to review applications with either self-reported or official scores. If you choose to send official scores, please use SAT PROFILE/TOEFL Code number: 4704 and ACT Code number: 0434. If you are offered admission and decide to enroll, we will then require you to submit official scores, which must be sent directly from the College Board or ACT to be considered official.
The Imperative of Academic Excellence
While Stanford champions a broad-based review process, make no mistake: academic rigor is paramount. The university expects applicants to challenge themselves with the most demanding courses available, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to intellectual growth. But Stanford’s search for excellence goes beyond transcripts and test scores. The university seeks learners who dive deep into their studies, who show curiosity and resilience when faced with academic challenges.
The Role of Intellectual Vitality
Intellectual vitality is more than a buzzword at Stanford; it’s a linchpin of their admissions process. This trait captures a student’s enthusiasm for exploration and discovery, their readiness to tackle complex challenges with innovative thinking and creative solutions. Stanford values students who contribute to the expansion of knowledge, pushing the boundaries of traditional learning environments. Applicants should highlight moments when they've extended their quest for knowledge beyond the classroom—be it through independent research, creative projects, or stimulating intellectual debates. Personal essays and recommendation letters are pivotal, offering a window into how applicants synthesize their experiences and perspectives. A well-crafted essay can reveal a student’s journey through curiosity and learning, while a heartfelt recommendation can underscore their relentless pursuit of understanding.
Extracurricular Depth Over Breadth
Stanford appreciates when students show deep, meaningful engagement in activities outside the classroom. Rather than a long list of shallow participations, Stanford values leadership, passion, and a sustained commitment to interests that span the arts, athletics, community service, or entrepreneurship. It’s the impact and personal growth derived from these engagements that matter, not the volume of activities listed on an application.
Financial Aid and International Admissions
Stanford's commitment to accessibility is evident in its robust financial aid offerings. However, international applicants must navigate a slightly different path, as Stanford's financial aid policy is not need-blind for them. This means that an applicant’s financial situation may play a role in the admissions decision. Nevertheless, all candidates—regardless of nationality—are encouraged to showcase their intellectual vitality and well-rounded profiles, attributes that transcend financial constraints and highlight potential to thrive at Stanford.
The Stanford Journey
Embarking on the path to Stanford is a voyage of self-discovery and ambition. It demands more than just scholastic excellence; it calls for a passion for learning, a dedication to personal and community growth, and the intellectual vitality to engage with the complexities of the world. By weaving together a narrative of rigorous academics, engaging intellectual pursuits, and impactful extracurricular activities, applicants can craft a compelling case for their admission. This journey, challenging though it is, is an opportunity to demonstrate one’s unique contributions and potential to impact the future, preparing not just for the rigors of Stanford’s academic environment but for a life of influence and innovation beyond the campus gates.
Discover how to stand out in your Stanford application—talk to an advisor today.

Learn how to demonstrate intellectual vitality and secure a spot at Stanford with our expert advice on passion, creativity, and academic prowess.

Stanford University Guide: Harness Intellectual Vitality

Unlocking the Gates to Stanford University: Intellectual Vitality and Beyond

The journey to admission into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the world’s premier science, technology, engineering, and mathematics institutions, is a rigorous but rewarding endeavour. For high school students dreaming of joining the ranks of MIT’s innovative community, and for the parents supporting them, understanding the nuances of the application process is crucial. This guide offers insights and strategies to enhance your chances of success.
Understanding MIT’s Unique Appeal
MIT is renowned not only for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence but also for its vibrant culture of collaboration and innovation. The university fosters an environment where practical problem-solving skills are at the forefront, preparing students to address real-world challenges effectively. This distinctive educational philosophy should resonate throughout your application, from essays to interviews.
Academic Excellence and Rigor
Academic prowess is paramount for admission to MIT. Applicants need to demonstrate mastery in their chosen field of study, particularly in STEM subjects. Advanced Placement (AP) classes, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, or other honors courses can showcase your academic preparedness. However, MIT looks beyond grades and scores; they seek students who push the boundaries of their academic pursuits. Participation in science fairs, research projects, or relevant internships can significantly strengthen your application.
Standardized Testing: A Component of the Whole
While MIT has a holistic admissions process, it requires the SAT or the ACT for both prospective first-year and transfer students. They do not need the ACT writing section or the SAT optional essay. Research conducted by the admissions office showed that the standardized tests are an important factor in assessing the academic preparation of applicants from all backgrounds, according to Dean of Admissions and Student Financial Services Stuart Schmill. He said the standardized exams are most helpful for assisting the admissions office in identifying socioeconomically disadvantaged students who are well-prepared for MIT’s challenging education, but who don’t have the opportunity to take advanced coursework, participate in expensive enrichment programs, or otherwise enhance their college applications.
Extracurricular Involvement: Quality Over Quantity
MIT values applicants who are not only scholars but also innovators and leaders. Engagement in extracurricular activities should reflect a deep commitment to a few interests rather than a superficial involvement in many. Whether you’re leading a robotics team, conducting independent research, or participating in community service, what matters most is how these activities align with your academic and career goals, and how they demonstrate your initiative and impact.
Essays: Your Voice, Your Story
The essays are your opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee. Here, you should weave narratives that reflect your intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and resilience. Effective essays often reveal how you think and solve problems, your passions, and how you have impacted your community. They should also explain why MIT is the right place for you and how you align with MIT’s mission of advancing knowledge and serving the world.
Letters of Recommendation: The Insightful Advocates
Strong letters of recommendation are critical. These should come from teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can speak in detail about your intellectual abilities, character, and contributions. Ideally, your recommenders should provide insights into your potential to thrive at MIT and beyond.
MIT requires letters of recommendation from two teachers.They recommend one evaluation from a math/science teacher, and one from a humanities, social science, or language teacher. They will also require materials from your school counselor (typically including your official transcript and—when available—a School Profile and letter of recommendation).
The Role of Interviews
At MIT, they don’t just want to see how you look on paper; they are interested in the whole person. That’s why, whenever possible, they offer interviews with members of the MIT Educational Council—a network of over 3,500 MIT graduates worldwide who volunteer to meet with applicants virtually or in person
After you submit your application, you may be contacted by an Educational Counselor (EC) if there’s one available. ECs typically use the email address you provided on your application to contact you, so please monitor your inbox and respond promptly. Most Early Action interviews will take place in November and most Regular Action interviews will take place in January. If they are unable to offer you an interview, it will be waived and your application will not be adversely affected.
What to expect
Typically, interviews last an hour, though they can range from 30 minutes to two hours long.
Before you meet with your EC, try to anticipate some of the questions you might be asked. Talk with friends and family about their interview experiences, or read our blog entries about interviews. Think through stories or examples that will give your interviewer a vivid sense of your passions and aspirations.
MIT interviews are not usually formal affairs. You do not have to dress up for your interview.
Financial Considerations
MIT is one of only seven colleges in the U.S. that is need blind and full need ⁠for all of our undergraduate students, domestic and international. About six out of every 10 students receive MIT need-based aid. The median annual price paid by an undergraduate who received an MIT Scholarship was $12,715⁠ for the 2022–2023 academic year.
Beginning with the 2024–2025 academic year, families whose total income is less than $75,000, with typical assets, are not expected to contribute toward their student’s MIT education. Students, however, are still expected to contribute toward their expenses from their summer savings contribution and student employment during the school year.
Final Thoughts
The path to MIT is competitive and demanding, but with a focused approach, it’s within reach. It requires demonstrating exceptional academic abilities, a passion for your field, and a commitment to making a significant impact. For both students and parents, the key is to start preparing early, stay informed about the application requirements, and be thorough in every application component. By understanding what MIT looks for in its candidates and carefully crafting each part of your application, you position yourself as a contender who can contribute to and benefit from the stimulating environment at MIT.
Discover how to stand out in your MIT application—talk to an advisor today.

Discover key strategies to excel in MIT admissions, focusing on academic achievement, innovation, and unique personal stories.

Crack MIT Admissions: Excellence & Innovation Guide

Decoding the MIT Admissions Code

In the heart of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) serves as an example of excellence in higher education, embodying the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of knowledge. Renowned for its rigorous academics, vibrant community, and illustrious history, UPenn offers a unique blend of opportunities that attract thousands of applicants each year. As the admissions landscape evolves, understanding the nuances of applying to such a prestigious institution is crucial for hopeful students.
Holistic Application Review: Beyond the Numbers
UPenn emphasizes a holistic review process, considering each applicant in the full context of their personal and academic background. The admissions committee looks beyond mere grades and test scores, focusing on the following key areas:
<ul>
<li>Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance in challenging courses is a must. UPenn values students who have maximized their high school's opportunities, showing a trajectory of growth and a love for learning.
</li>
<li>Extracurricular Engagement: The university seeks individuals who have demonstrated leadership, commitment, and impact in their extracurricular pursuits. Whether through sports, community service, or personal projects, showing passion and initiative is paramount.</li>
<li>Personal Qualities: Essays and recommendations provide a window into the applicant's character, resilience, and potential to contribute to the UPenn community. Authenticity and self-reflection are highly valued in these components.</li>
<li>Interest in UPenn: Demonstrated interest can be a factor, with the university looking for applicants who have taken the time to research and understand what makes UPenn unique. Tailoring one's application to reflect a genuine connection with the school's values and opportunities can make a difference.
</li>
</ul>
Standardized Testing:
Acknowledging the disruptions caused by global events, UPenn has adopted a more flexible stance on standardized testing. The university’s admissions website states that UPenn “has announced that it will remain test-optional for the 24-25 application cycle.” This means that SAT or ACT scores are not required for applicants, allowing students to decide whether their test results accurately reflect their academic abilities. However, for those choosing to submit scores, UPenn does not have a preference between the SAT and ACT, and SAT Subject Tests are not required.
Unique and Interesting Details About UPenn
<ul>
<li>Innovative Programs: UPenn is home to highly unique programs, such as the Huntsman Program in International Studies and Business and the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology, which combine disciplines in ways that prepare students for a globalized, tech-savvy world.</li>
<li>Benjamin Franklin's Legacy: Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, UPenn carries forward its founder's emphasis on practical education for public service and commerce. This legacy influences its broad range of interdisciplinary programs and civic engagement initiatives.</li>
<li>A Vibrant Campus in an Historic City: The university's urban campus blends Gothic architecture with modern facilities, nestled within Philadelphia's rich historical and cultural tapestry. This setting offers students countless opportunities for learning, internships, and cultural enrichment.</li>
<li>A Commitment to Diversity: UPenn is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive community. This commitment is reflected in its admissions policies, financial aid programs, and support services designed to ensure that all students can thrive.</li>
</ul>
Applying to the University of Pennsylvania is a journey that requires preparation, reflection, and a deep understanding of the institution's values and expectations. With its flexible approach to standardized testing and a holistic review process, UPenn seeks to identify students who not only excel academically but also bring unique perspectives and qualities to its vibrant community. By focusing on these aspects and engaging with the unique opportunities that UPenn offers, applicants can navigate the admissions process with confidence, aspiring to join the ranks of Penn's distinguished alumni.
 Discover how to stand out in your UPenn application—talk to an advisor today.

Learn to navigate UPenn's application process, combining rigorous academics and a vibrant community, for Ivy League success.

Master UPenn Application: Ivy League Success Guide

The Path to Ivy League Success: Mastering the UPenn Application Process

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) stands as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and diversity on the West Coast. Whether you're a high school student dreaming of becoming a Bruin, or a parent supporting that dream, understanding the nuances of the application process is the first step towards achieving their collegiate dreams. This guide, tailored for students in grades 9-12, breaks down UCLA's admission criteria, the application process, testing requirements, and financial aid options, including insights for international students.
Admission Criteria: The Building Blocks of Your Application
UCLA seeks students who excel academically and are innovative, community-oriented, and diverse. Here are the primary factors UCLA considers:
<ul>
<li>Academic Achievement: Strong performance in a rigorous high school curriculum is vital. This includes AP, IB, and honors courses if available.</li>
<li>Test Scores: The university’s undergraduate admissions website states that “UCLA will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. If you choose to submit test scores as part of your application, they may be used as an alternative method of fulfilling minimum requirements for eligibility or for course placement after you enroll.” However, specific departments or scholarships may have their own testing requirements, so it's advisable to check the latest guidelines on the UCLA admissions website.</li>
<li>Personal Insight Questions: UCLA requires answers to specific questions that give insight into your personality, achievements, and the challenges you've overcome. These responses are critical to understanding you beyond your grades.</li>
<li>Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, sports, volunteer work, and other activities showcase your character and contributions to your community.</li>
<li>Diversity and Inclusion: UCLA values diverse experiences and perspectives. Sharing how your background has shaped you can be an asset to your application.</li>
</ul>

Financial Aid: Opening Doors for All Students
UCLA is committed to making education accessible to all, offering a variety of financial aid options:
<ul>
<li>Grants and Scholarships: Need-based and merit-based awards that do not require repayment.</li>
<li>Loans: Federal and private loans are available, but it's essential to understand the terms before borrowing.</li>
<li>Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities that help you earn money to pay for educational expenses.</li>
<li>International Student Aid: While more limited, scholarships and private loans are available to international students. UCLA also recommends exploring funding options within your home country.</li>
</ul>

The Unique Elements of UCLA
UCLA is not just about academics; it's about experiencing a vibrant campus life that prepares you for success beyond college. Here are some unique aspects:

<ul>
 <li>Dynamic Campus Culture: UCLA’s campus life is a vibrant mosaic of over 1,000 student organizations, ranging from cultural and social clubs to professional and academic groups. A notable example is the UCLA Cultural Affairs Commission, one of the largest student-run arts organizations in the nation, which hosts the renowned JazzReggae Festival, a student-initiated event celebrating music, culture, and art. This diversity of organizations offers students unparalleled opportunities to connect, lead, and engage in personal development.</li>
 <li>Innovative Research Opportunities: At UCLA, undergraduates are not just students but also creators of knowledge. The Undergraduate Research Centers — one for the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, and another for Sciences — facilitate students' participation in research projects, from exploring renewable energy solutions to examining the socio-political contexts of art. The annual Undergraduate Research Week showcases the impressive work of student researchers, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering innovation across all disciplines.</li>
 <li>Global Connections: UCLA’s global outreach is exemplified by its extensive study abroad programs, which include unique opportunities like the UCLA Travel Study Program. This program allows students to study topics in depth in a global context, such as exploring theater in London or environmental science in Costa Rica, under the guidance of UCLA faculty. The university also hosts international conferences and collaborates on global learning initiatives, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world.</li>
 <li>Community Impact: Commitment to service is a core value at UCLA, and the university’s Volunteer Center is at the forefront of this effort. Through initiatives like the annual Volunteer Day, one of the nation's largest university-organized community service events, Bruins make a tangible impact on local and global communities. Students engage in a variety of projects, from beautifying public schools to engaging in environmental conservation efforts, embodying UCLA’s ethos of giving back.</li>
</ul>

The Admission Process: Steps to Take
<ul>
<li>Prepare Early: Start planning your high school courses and activities with UCLA's criteria in mind. Engage in communities and pursue passions that align with your intended major.</li>
<li>Apply by the Deadline: Submit your application through the University of California's centralized application system by November 30 for the following fall term.
</li>
<li>Financial Aid and Scholarships: Complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application, and the CSS Profile if you're an international student, by the March 2 deadline to qualify for financial aid.</li>
<li>Stay Informed: After submission, check your email and UCLA's portal regularly for updates or requests for additional information.</li>
</ul>
Becoming a Bruin means more than just attending a top university; it's about joining a community that champions excellence, diversity, and innovation. By understanding the admission process, preparing thoroughly, and embracing the unique opportunities UCLA offers, you'll be well on your way to walking the paths of the stunning Westwood campus as a proud UCLA student. Remember, the journey to UCLA begins with ambition and is realized through dedication and a deep commitment to your personal and academic growth. Future Bruins, your adventure starts now!
Discover how to stand out in your UCLA application—talk to an advisor today.

Explore UCLA’s admissions process, from academic standards to campus life, and learn how to shine as a prospective Bruin.

UCLA Admissions Guide: Become a Future Bruin

Navigating the Path to UCLA: A Comprehensive Guide for Future Bruins

In the picturesque city of Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University stands as a testament to innovation, academic freedom, and a commitment to social responsibility. Known for its distinctive approach to education and a campus buzzing with intellectual curiosity, Brown attracts students who are eager to chart their own academic journeys. As one navigates the competitive landscape of Ivy League admissions, understanding the nuances of applying to Brown becomes crucial. This article delves into Brown's admissions process, shedding light on its approach to standardized testing, key review focuses, and the unique facets that set Brown apart.
What Brown Looks for in Applications
Brown’s admission process is characterized by a holistic review, with a keen focus on the following elements:
<ul>
<li>Academic Excellence: A rigorous high school curriculum and strong academic performance are fundamental. Brown values students who challenge themselves and excel in their chosen areas of study.</li>
<li>Intellectual Curiosity: Brown’s open curriculum encourages students to explore widely and deeply. The university looks for applicants who demonstrate a genuine love for learning and an eagerness to engage with a broad range of subjects.</li>
<li>Community Engagement: Contributions to one's community and the ability to collaborate with others are highly regarded. Brown seeks individuals who have made a positive impact in their schools or local communities through leadership, service, or creative initiatives.</li>
<li>Personal Qualities: Through essays and recommendations, applicants have the opportunity to showcase their unique perspectives, resilience, and potential to contribute to Brown’s diverse community.</li>
</ul>
Brown’s Standardized Testing Update: A Strategic Shift
In a move reflecting its commitment to diverse and accessible education, Brown University will require SAT or ACT scores from first-year applicants starting with the Class of 2029. This reinstatement comes with a promise to evaluate scores within the broader context of each applicant's educational and personal background. This "Testing in Context" approach aims to ensure fairness, particularly for students from less-resourced schools, by considering test scores alongside other factors like academic performance and extracurricular involvement. Brown’s decision, informed by extensive deliberations on admissions policies, underscores its holistic review process and dedication to identifying potential across a wide spectrum of experiences. You can read the President’s letter addressing the motivations behind this shift <a href="https://president.brown.edu/president/decision-following-examination-admissions-policies">here.</a>
Distinctive Aspects of Brown University
<ul>
<li>The Open Curriculum: Brown’s open curriculum is emblematic of its approach to education, allowing students the freedom to design their own academic pathway without the constraints of general education requirements. This fosters a highly personalized and interdisciplinary learning experience, as seen in the creation of independent concentrations by students who wish to study topics that transcend traditional departmental boundaries.</li>
<li>Engaged Scholars Program: This program exemplifies Brown’s commitment to connecting academic work with community engagement. Participants combine coursework, research, and hands-on experiences to address social issues, demonstrating the university’s ethos of utilizing knowledge for societal benefit.</li>
<li>The Writing Fellows Program: Unique to Brown, this peer tutoring program embeds trained undergraduate writing tutors in various courses. They provide feedback on drafts, helping to foster a community of writers and scholars who support each other’s academic growth.</li>
<li>Global Learning and Innovation: Brown encourages global engagement through programs like the <a href="https://oisss.brown.edu/international-scholars" target="_blank">Brown International Scholars Program (BISP),</a> which supports students in conducting research or academic projects abroad. This initiative reflects Brown's dedication to cultivating a global perspective among its students.</li>
</ul>
Applying to Brown University is more than just meeting application requirements; it’s about conveying how you align with the university's ethos of intellectual independence, community engagement, and a multidisciplinary approach to learning. Brown’s distinctive educational philosophy and its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community offer a unique backdrop for students to explore their passions and develop new ones. As applicants navigate through the process, highlighting how their experiences and ambitions resonate with Brown’s values can make a compelling case for their admission, paving the way for an enriching college journey at one of the nation’s most forward-thinking universities.

Discover how to stand out in your Brown University application—talk to an advisor today.

Uncover the unique aspects of applying to Brown University and learn how to navigate the competitive Ivy League admissions landscape.

Guide to Brown University: Ivy League Admissions

Charting a Path to Brown University: A Guide to the Admission Landscape

In the shadow of its gothic spires, the University of Chicago not only represents the pinnacle of academic achievement but also a crucible for the intellectually curious. Aspiring to join such a community requires more than just academic prowess; it necessitates a blend of creativity, passion, and a readiness to engage in a broad spectrum of ideas. Understanding UChicago’s admission criteria, process, and financial aid opportunities becomes paramount. This guide serves as a comprehensive overview for domestic and international students navigating the undergraduate admission landscape from grades 9-12.
A Tradition of Intellectual Rigor: The Core Curriculum
The University of Chicago is renowned for its distinctive Core Curriculum, which is a fundamental component of the undergraduate educational experience, designed to provide students with a broad and deep foundation in the liberal arts. The Core Curriculum embodies the university's commitment to rigorous, comprehensive education and encourages students to engage with a wide range of disciplines. Applicants are evaluated on their potential to contribute to and thrive in this environment, making it imperative for candidates to showcase their intellectual curiosity and versatility in their applications.
Unconventional Essays: A Window into Your Mind
A key aspect of the UChicgo application process includes unique and creative essay prompts, which change annually. These prompts are developed by UChicago students, demonstrating their investment in intellectual inquiry. These prompts encourage applicants to think outside the box and express themselves in distinct ways. For instance, a prompt from 2024 reads:
“Vlog,” “Labradoodle,” and “Fauxmage.” Language is filled with portmanteaus. Create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a “patch” (perfect match).
This aspect of the application is a chance to showcase your creativity, wit, and ability to think critically about unusual topics. To stand out, candidates should embrace their individuality and craft essays that reflect their authentic selves. Don't shy away from taking risks or delving into topics you're passionate about. The admissions committee values originality and the ability to convey ideas compellingly!
Standardized Tests: UChicago's No Harm Policy
In recent years, the University of Chicago has adopted a test-optional policy for standardized tests, acknowledging that a single test score may not fully encapsulate an applicant's abilities or potential. This policy allows students to decide whether their SAT or ACT scores accurately reflect their academic capabilities and if they should include them in their application.
The UChiago admissions website assures applicants that “in addition to being test-optional, UChicago practices a ‘No Harm' policy for application review when considering SAT or ACT scores. Any SAT or ACT score submitted will only be used in review if it will positively affect an applicant’s chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be considered in review. All applicants, including domestic students, international students, and transfer students will be reviewed under this policy.”
Research, Extracurriculars, and Community Engagement
UChicago seeks students who excel academically and engage actively beyond the classroom. To enhance your application:
<ul>
<li>Research: Detail your involvement in research, emphasizing your specific role, the interdisciplinary nature of the work, and its impact. Show how your research reflects intellectual curiosity and a readiness to tackle complex problems.</li>
<li>Extracurriculars: Highlight leadership and passion in extracurricular activities. Demonstrate how you've contributed to your school or community, showcasing skills and interests that align with UChicago's values.</li>
<li>Community Engagement: Share experiences of meaningful community service, focusing on your contributions and the lessons learned. UChicago values students who apply their knowledge for societal benefit.</li>
</ul>
By showcasing your commitment to research, extracurriculars, and community engagement, you'll illustrate your readiness to contribute to UChicago's dynamic environment.
Wrapping Up: Crafting a Compelling Application
Admission to the University of Chicago is a holistic process that seeks to identify students who are not only academically capable but also ready to immerse themselves in the university’s rich intellectual and community life. The decision to include standardized test scores should be carefully weighed against the rest of your application materials. Focus on presenting a well-rounded picture of your intellectual curiosity, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact.
To all prospective Maroons, this journey is as much about discovering yourself as it is about getting into college. Embrace the challenge, and let your application be a true reflection of your intellectual curiosity and personal aspirations. With thoughtful preparation and a genuine portrayal of yourself, your application can stand out in the competitive admissions landscape. Good luck!
Discover how to stand out in your UChicago application—talk to an advisor today.

Dive into UChicago’s unique admission process, emphasizing the Core Curriculum and creative essay prompts to elevate your application.

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