The Big Ten Academic Alliance - U Chicago, U Michigan, UCLA & USC…
Here is an inside look at the shifting landscape of college admissions—and how students, families, and counselors can adapt.
Record Application Volumes and Major Shifts
The Largest Class—Ever
The Class of 2025 is the largest graduating high school class in U.S. history—and applications to Big Ten schools are soaring as a result. But here’s the catch: most universities aren’t expanding enrollment. Some are even shrinking their class sizes.
Consolidation Around Five Major Fields
According to Eduventures’ 2024 Bachelor’s Degree Study:
49% of degrees conferred fall into just five fields:
- Professional programs
- Business
- Natural sciences
- Computer science and math
- Engineering
The same five areas account for
49% of student interest.
However, interest in computer science is softening at some institutions.
The Role of AI in Applications
AI is a hot topic, and admissions offices are watching closely. The consensus:
- AI
can be a tool, but it
shouldn’t replace the student’s own voice.
- Authentic storytelling is still
central to holistic review.
- Schools are emphasizing personal narratives and original content.
Test Optional: What It Really Means in 2025
COVID-era test-optional policies are still largely in place, but with important nuances.
Policy Differences
- Some states
mandate test optional policies (e.g., Illinois for in-state students).
- Systems vary: some universities within the same network have different requirements.
Strategic Score Submission
- Around
50% of students submitted scores at Illinois and Michigan State.
- General advice:
“If your test score aligns with your academic performance, submit it.”
Test scores may still matter for:
- Scholarships
- Honors program admissions
- Competitive majors
Be aware: low score submission rates inflate percentiles—use last year’s admitted ranges as your benchmark.
ACT Science Section Updates
Big changes to the ACT test:
- Science section is now optional
- Total questions reduced, giving students more time per item
What Big Ten Schools Are Doing:
- Most are not requiring the science section
- Still, students are encouraged to take it
“You never know—it might matter for scholarships or certain majors.”
Academic Rigor & Transcript Evaluation
What Counts as Rigor?
Big Ten schools evaluate rigor within context. They're looking for:
- Students who challenge themselves appropriately
- Courses that show progressive academic growth
- Clear alignment between
goals and curriculum
Dual Enrollment on the Rise
- From 300,000 (early 2000s) to 2.5+ million in 2022–23
- Students with college-level coursework:
- Perform better in first-year college classes
- Earn scholarships at higher rates
Key Institutional Practices:
- Penn State recalculates GPAs using its own system via the
Self-Reported Academic Record
- Transcript clarity is crucial—especially for uniquely titled courses like “Mathematics in Space”
Course Selection Tips by Major:
- Engineering: Calculus preferred, Pre-Calc minimum
- Psychology: AP Statistics more useful than AP Calc
- Theater: Holistic review includes performance experience
Essays & Holistic Review
What the Essay Is (and Isn’t)
- It’s the
"icing on the cake" after grades, activities, and recs.
- It should show:
- Growth
- Character
- Voice
- Writing skills
“We’re not looking for students who saved kittens from burning buildings,” said one rep.
“We want a glimpse into how they think and who they are.”
The Power of “Why This School?”
These school-specific responses carry huge weight—sometimes even more than the personal statement.
High School Profile: Make It Count
A strong school profile provides vital context for admissions officers. It should include:
Academic Overview
- GPA scale (weighted/unweighted)
- Grade distribution by course level
- Top GPA in the class
Curriculum Info
- Advanced course offerings (AP, IB, dual enrollment)
- Unique program highlights (e.g., STEM academies)
- Scheduling format (block, trimester, etc.)
Outcomes & Testing Data
- Percentiles for SAT/ACT scores
- College destinations
- Military/workforce data
Demographics
- Senior class size
- % on free/reduced lunch
- CEEB code and counselor contact info
Note: University of Washington does not consider school profiles. Students are advised to
provide key context directly in their applications.
Transfer Student Trends
University of California System
- 94% of transfers come from California community colleges
- Strong preference for in-state transfers
- Articulation agreements help map transfer credits
USC
- Welcomes a broader mix but still sees most transfers from California CCs
- Planning tools available to help ensure successful transfer
Key Resources & Next Steps
Don’t forget to check each university's website for:
- AP/IB credit policies
- Scholarship info
- Virtual info sessions
- Campus visit options
Final Thoughts
The admissions process is evolving—and Big Ten universities are right at the forefront. Whether you’re a counselor helping students navigate this landscape, or a student planning your next steps, understanding these trends gives you an edge.
- Stay focused on:
- Authentic storytelling
- Smart academic choices
- Thoughtful engagement with colleges
- Using tools (even AI) responsibly
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