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How much does race matter in college admissions?

Hi everyone, I've been researching college admissions and I'm a little bit stressed about how much race may affect my application. Can someone explain the role race plays in the admissions process and if it's something I should be concerned about? I really want to get a clear understanding and be prepared. Thanks!

a year ago

Hi there! As of June 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that Affirmative Action, which allowed colleges to practice race-conscious admissions, is no longer allowed. With this decision, colleges are now legally unable to use race as a factor in their admissions decisions.

However, it is important to note that colleges can still evaluate the context of an applicant's individual experiences, including how race has impacted them personally. Essentially, while race can't be used as a determinative factor, the impact of race on a student's experiences, perspectives, and challenges can still be taken into account. For more on this, read this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/end-of-affirmative-action

For example, if an applicant were to write about how their racial identity played a significant role in shaping their life or influenced particular experiences in an essay, admissions officers would be able to consider that aspect as a part of the student's holistic application review. They could then assess the impact race may have had on the student's development and the diverse perspectives they would bring to campus.

In summary, while colleges are no longer allowed to practice race-conscious admissions, the impact race has had on an applicant's personal experiences may still be considered. As an applicant, it's important to focus on presenting a strong application that highlights your authentic experiences and strengths. Don't stress too much about aspects you can't control, and instead, concentrate on showcasing who you are and what makes you a valuable addition to the college community. Good luck on your applications!

a year ago

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.