Hey, I've been looking into Sarah Lawrence as a potential college to apply to, I'm interested in their liberal arts curriculum. Can anyone give me some insight on their application process and what the admissions team is specifically looking for? Is there something I should emphasize in my application? Thanks in advance!
Sarah Lawrence is a unique case among liberal arts colleges with a truly individualized, seminar-style academic approach. The college doesn't offer traditional majors; instead, students do rigorous coursework and often work one-on-one with professors to create an academic path tailored to their interests. This allows undergraduates to develop diverse skills and become experts in their chosen fields.
Regarding the application process, Sarah Lawrence is test-optional, which means submitting your SAT/ACT scores is entirely up to you for the 2024-2025 application cycle. They accept both the Common Application and Coalition Application. The application includes basic information, an essay, your high school transcript(s), counselor recommendation, and 2 teacher recommendations.
To answer your question on what to emphasize, Sarah Lawrence seeks students who are independent, adventurous, and show an inclination for self-directed learning. Your application should demonstrate these attributes—they love to see individualized thinkers and students who have shown the ability to pursue their interests deeply. The admissions team looks for instances of self-challenge, creativity, intellectual curiosity, and a strong commitment to liberal arts.
With regard to extracurricular activities, students admitted to top colleges usually participate in 8-10 activities in total, but the quality and depth of involvement often matter more than sheer numbers. Ranking extracurriculars in 4 Tiers can help admissions teams assess their significance, with Tier 1 representing international or national recognition, and Tier 4 representing general involvement.
In your essay, avoid cliche topics and instead focus on showcasing your intellectual passions and how it aligns with Sarah Lawrence's educational philosophy. Take advantage of the additional information section on the application and elaborate on your unique experiences or established pursuits.
Lastly, demonstrated interest can factor into their admissions decisions—Sarah Lawrence invites applicants to have an optional interview with an admissions counselor or alumnus, which can be a productive way to express your interest in their unique academic model, not to mention a valuable opportunity to ask questions and get answers from someone very familiar with the school. Remember to also utilize the "Why Sarah Lawrence?" supplemental essay to clearly articulate why the school's distinctive approach appeals to you.
Remember, the best application is one that showcases your best authentic self! Good luck with your application journey!
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