Applying to study abroad can be a complex and daunting process. One aspect of the college application that can often cause confusion is the concept of "holistic evaluation." In this blog, we will explore what holistic evaluation means and how it is used in college applications.
What is Holistic Evaluation?
Holistic evaluation is a comprehensive review of a student's application, taking into consideration all aspects of their profile, including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and background. Instead of focusing solely on grades or test scores, holistic evaluation looks at the whole person and their potential as a student and a member of the college community.
The purpose of holistic evaluation is to provide a fair and balanced assessment of each student's potential to succeed in college, taking into account their unique experiences and talents. Holistic evaluation is commonly used by universities and colleges around the world, especially in the United States.
How is Holistic Evaluation Used in College Applications?
Holistic evaluation is used in college applications to give admission committees a more complete picture of each applicant. Instead of simply looking at grades and test scores, admission committees will consider factors such as extracurricular activities, community involvement, work experience, essays, and letters of recommendation.
When evaluating an application holistically, admission committees will consider several key factors:
Academic Performance:
Admission committees will review a student's academic record to evaluate their academic potential, including grades, course selection, and test scores.
Extracurricular Activities:
Admission committees will review a student's extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, volunteering, and work experience, to evaluate their leadership skills, teamwork, and dedication.
Essays:
Admission committees will review a student's essays to evaluate their writing skills, critical thinking, and personal qualities.
Letters of Recommendation:
Admission committees will review letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, and other professionals to evaluate a student's potential to succeed in college.
Background and Diversity:
Admission committees will consider a student's background, including their ethnicity, socio-economic status, and cultural experiences, to evaluate their potential to contribute to a diverse and inclusive college community.
Overall, holistic evaluation provides admission committees with a more complete and nuanced understanding of each student, allowing them to make informed decisions about who to admit to their institution.
Why is Holistic Evaluation Important?
Holistic evaluation is important because it allows colleges and universities to consider a student's potential beyond their academic performance. By looking at a student's entire profile, admission committees can identify students who may have faced challenges in their academic careers but have demonstrated resilience and determination through their extracurricular activities, community involvement, or personal experiences.
Holistic evaluation also allows colleges and universities to create a diverse and inclusive student body, bringing together students from different backgrounds and experiences to learn from each other and contribute to a rich and dynamic college community.
In conclusion
Holistic evaluation is an important part of the college application process, allowing colleges and universities to consider a student's potential beyond their academic performance. By evaluating an applicant's entire profile, admission committees can identify students who will thrive in college and contribute to a diverse and inclusive college community.
