Chances at Barnard College?

Hi all. I'm considering applying to Barnard next year. I know the school has been getting more competitive and the acceptance rates have been changing. Can anyone give insights on what it takes to get into Barnard nowadays? Much appreciated!

Admission to Barnard College, like many colleges, presents a holistic process where they evaluate your academic prowess, personal attributes, and potential to thrive at the institution.

First and foremost, there's your academic performance. Barnard is known for its rigor and intellectual vitality, so strong grades are definitely important. Most admitted students have a robust academic record, including taking challenging courses such as AP or IB ones, demonstrating that they can handle the rigor of a college-level curriculum.

Standardized test scores can also be a factor. Barnard is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, but you can choose to submit SAT or ACT scores if you feel they accurately reflect your abilities and strengths.

Extracurricular activities play an important role as well. The admissions team at Barnard seeks students who are engaged with the world around them in meaningful ways. Of course, quality outweighs quantity in this case; having a handful of activities that illustrate your passion and commitment is more compelling than many low-involvement ones.

Barnard requires two letters of recommendation and a supplemental essay as another chance for the admissions team to better understand who you are: your personality, motivations, and how you can contribute to the campus community.

Finally, keep in mind that the number of applications received annually by Barnard increases, leading to lower admit rates. However, it's important not just to focus on statistics – your unique perspective and life experiences may stand out to the admissions committee and help you secure a spot.

Have a focus on your 'spike,' or the passion you have developed expertise and achieved recognitions in. Colleges such as Barnard appreciate students who have poured their energy into fostering a particular talent or interest. A strong, well-articulated 'spike' can be a compelling factor in your application.

Make sure your application illustrates your fit with Barnard's mission and values, your potential contributions to the school's community, and what you hope to gain from a Barnard education.

To wrap this up, the chances of getting into competitive colleges like Barnard are contingent on several aspects, not limited to scores, grades, or extracurricular activities alone. Ensuring a balanced profile and showcasing your distinctiveness will play a significant role. Good luck!