Hey folks, doing some research and I came across Merrimack college. It aligns well with what I'm looking for, but I'm unsure about its admissions process and what they specifically look for in applicants. Does anyone have any insight into this?
Merrimack College, located in North Andover, Massachusetts, takes a holistic approach to its admissions process. This means they evaluate candidates based on a range of factors, rather than just grades and standardized test scores.
Primarily, they look at your high school academic record, which includes the rigor of your high school coursework, your grade trend, and your GPA. They value students who have challenged themselves with tough courses (honors, AP, or IB) and who have demonstrated consistent or improved academic achievement throughout high school.
Merrimack became test-optional in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission but can be submitted if you feel that they enhance your application. However, test scores could be necessary for some specific programs or for international students, so it's best to check the specific requirements for your situation.
Extracurricular involvement is also a factor Merrimack considers. They like to see students who are engaged in their communities and demonstrate leadership, dedication, or exceptional achievements. They use what's known as the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars to evaluate this, so aim to have a mix of Tiers on your college application.
Additionally, Merrimack asks for a personal essay and 1-2 letters of recommendation. The essay is your chance to showcase who you are beyond your academic and extracurricular achievements. Letters of recommendation from your teachers or counselors can provide insights into your character, work ethic, and potential for success in college.
Lastly, showing interest in Merrimack can potentially help in the admissions process. This can be shown through actions like visiting campus (virtually or physically), attending information sessions, or having interviews, if available.
Take note that the above elements are typical for many college applications, so it's best to also reach out directly to Merrimack's admissions office for any special programs or specifics that might be unique to them.
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