One word to describe the 2024 college admission cycle - unpredictable!  From increased competitiveness at state flagship universities and the confusing role of standardized test scores, to the growing interest in southern schools and the heightened selectivity of certain majors, the landscape is shifting rapidly. These trends are reshaping how students and families should approach the college search and application process. We will explore three of these key trends.

Trend #1: State Flagship Universities Are Becoming More Selective

State universities have traditionally served as strong, accessible, and affordable options for students. However, increased applicant numbers, both in-state and out-of-state, have significantly intensified competition. Using UMass Amherst’s 2024-2025 admission cycle, preliminary data shows over 50,000 applications submitted. A 3.5 weighted GPA, which was once competitive, is no longer a guarantee for admission—not just to the Isenberg School of Management, but even for general admission. The average submitted SAT score is 1397, ACT is 31, and the GPA average is 4.05. Strong grades and test scores are no longer enough; students must show other strengths.

Key Points:

• Engage in activities that align with your intended major to demonstrate commitment and interest in your field of interest.

• Demonstrate interest by visiting campuses, attending virtual sessions, and engaging with admissions representatives.

• Consider alternative campuses or honors programs within the state system that may offer a strong education with slightly less competition.

Trend #2: The Heightened Popularity of Southern Colleges

Southern colleges have become increasingly attractive to students nationwide. A September 2024 Wall Street Journal article, “Sorry, Harvard. Everyone Wants to Go to College in the South Now,” says it all. Students are drawn to affordability, warm weather, and the quintessential large-college experience filled with fun and football. Schools such as the UNC Chapel Hill are seeing skyrocketing demand, with an in-state acceptance rate of approximately 40% to ultra-competitive 7% out-of-state rate.

Key Points:

• Look beyond the well-known schools—consider strong yet less competitive options like East Carolina University and High Point University, which offer impressive academics and facilities.

• Ensure cultural and academic fit—the southern college experience can be different from that of the Northeast; consider factors such as campus environment and student body culture.

• Understand the competition—out-of-state students often face steeper odds, so apply strategically to multiple southern schools.

• Visit campuses if possible—seeing a school in person can help determine whether the location, community, and lifestyle align with your preferences.

Trend #3: Increased Competition for Selective Majors

Certain programs, such as business, computer science, engineering, and nursing, are becoming more competitive, especially in schools with direct-admit programs. Even universities with higher overall acceptance rates can have significantly lower admission rates for these specific majors. Students often assume they have a “safety” school, only to find that gaining acceptance into their desired program is much harder than expected.

Key Points:

• Have a viable backup plan—if your first-choice major is business, consider a second major that also aligns with your career goals, such as economics; international relations or political science; or English (which provides transferable skills in communication and analysis). 

• Explain major flexibility in your application—use the “Why this Major” supplemental essay to explain how you can reach your goal with either major.

• Highlight interest alignment in extracurriculars—demonstrate academic and career interest through clubs, internships, research, or a part-time job.

• Be open to transferring into a desired program later—some schools allow internal transfers into competitive majors after the first year if students meet the requirements.

In a college admissions landscape that is increasingly difficult to predict, families must rethink the concept of “safety” and “probable” schools. Applicants can no longer assume admission based solely on GPA and test scores. Instead, college choices must have a thoughtful and authentic plan.

One of the most important messages I share with my students is to approach their applications as if they are telling a story about themselves. Each section of the application should highlight different strengths, passions, and values. The goal is not just to get into a college but to find the right fit. By aligning personal achievements with what each college seeks, students increase their chances of success in this evolving admissions process.

Good luck and enjoy the journey!   

College 101 Admissions Consultants LLC. 

Website: www.mycollege101.com.

Email: [email protected]. Phone: (508) 380-3845.

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