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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
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What majors do admissions officers typically want more of?

Hey guys, I was just wondering - what college majors do you think are most desirable to admissions officers? I know it probably varies from school to school, but are there any majors that universities tend to favor more on an application?

a year ago

The answer to your question isn't as straightforward as you might hope. Admissions officers generally take a holistic approach to applications, and they typically don't favor one major over another. Instead, they prioritize a strong academic profile, demonstrated interest in the field of study the applicant chooses, and a well-rounded application that reflects the applicant's passion and potential contribution to the university community.

For some colleges, the desired major also plays a part in the admissions decision because it might influence the balance of the incoming class. For instance, it's possible that an applicant for a relatively less popular or under-enrolled major could have slightly better chances of admission, as the school might aim for academic diversity. Majors such as physics, classics, certain foreign languages, and ethnic studies may fall into this category at some universities.

In contrast, popular majors like psychology, biology, business, and computer science often get flooded with applicants. However, this doesn’t mean that choosing a less popular major will unequivocally improve your chances. It's crucial to demonstrate an authentic interest in your chosen field, as admissions officers can often recognize if someone has chosen an 'unpopular' major merely in hopes of improving their chances.

Keep in mind, that most colleges allow students to change their major after matriculation, so your declared major on the application is by no means a binding commitment. You should choose a major you're genuinely passionate about, rather than seeking one that might impress admissions officers. Your passion will typically lead to a stronger application and can give you a clearer direction in your college journey and career.

a year ago

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