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Do colleges admit students based on their major?

I've heard some people say that certain colleges admit students based on their intended major, but I'm not really sure if that's true. Can anyone shed some light on this? It would definitely impact my decisions on where to apply and what to declare on my applications.

a year ago

Yes, colleges do take into consideration your intended major during the admissions process, but the impact varies from college to college. Depending on the institution, your major can play a more significant or minimal role in your admissions decision.

More competitive colleges and universities with specialized programs might place more emphasis on your intended major, especially if they have strong programs in a specific field. For example, applying as an engineering major at a school known for its engineering program could make the admission process more competitive, as more applicants might be vying for a limited number of spots. These colleges might look for a strong background in relevant courses and extracurricular activities related to your chosen major.

Additionally, some larger institutions are divided up into various schools, for subjects like engineering, architecture, and so on. At these institutions, you have to apply to the school where your intended major is housed, and the schools that have more popular or well-regarded majors can be more difficult to get into than the university as a whole.

Liberal arts colleges often have a more flexible approach to majors, as they encourage exploration and interdisciplinary studies. At such colleges, your intended major might have less of an impact on the admission decision. However, they will still want to see that you have a genuine interest in your declared major and have demonstrated your ability to excel in related courses or extracurricular activities.

It's essential to remember that admissions officers approach each application holistically, and evaluate how your intended major fits into the context of your entire application, including your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. So, while your intended major can play a role in the process, it's typically just one factor of many that colleges consider.

When deciding where to apply and what to declare, keep in mind your genuine interests and strengths. Pursuing a major simply because you perceive it as "easier" to get admitted in that field might not be the best strategy, as it could lead to a less fulfilling college experience. Instead, focus on finding a major and college where you can thrive and maximize your potential. Best of luck with your college search!

a year ago

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