Selectivity of Catholic colleges

So, I'm a Catholic, and I'm considering applying to Catholic colleges. I've seen some of them labeled as 'most selective'. What does this mean in terms of admission difficulty? Are there specific criteria they look for because they are Catholic?

When a college is described as "most selective," it generally means that the acceptance rate is quite low—often below 30%. These schools often have a large applicant pool and can thus be more selective in choosing students who best fit their criteria. This includes factors like academic achievements (GPA, standardized test scores, rigorous coursework), strong essays, impactful extracurricular activities, and glowing recommendation letters.

As for Catholic colleges, many do share a strong commitment to develop a community and an environment that is in line with Catholic values and teachings. However, this doesn't mean that only Catholic students are welcome. Students of all backgrounds and religions attend Catholic colleges, and diversity is usually celebrated.

In terms of admissions, Catholic colleges might have an interest in understanding how you'll contribute to their mission. This could be discussed in your essays—perhaps by demonstrating how you have lived the values associated with Catholic teachings in your life, such as service, compassion, and community, regardless of your specific religious background. An example could be your efforts to serve the community or your participation in social justice initiatives, which resonate well with Catholic values of charity and justice. They may also appreciate students who express interest in participating in religious activities on campus, such as campus ministry but this isn't a make-or-break factor.

Remember, each college—even within Catholic colleges—has its unique culture and priorities, so it's best to research each institution individually to understand what they're specifically looking for.