AO Application Review and Rating

[Anonymous]

Found this about Duke (on Reddit from the email from AO to alumni interviewers) which gives insight into what they are looking for:

We know that almost all of our applicants have the academic preparation and extracurricular accomplishments to be successful Duke students. The Admissions Office's challenge is sometimes understanding which students might add something that would particularly benefit the Duke community.
Some of these qualities might include:

a particular maturity or depth of thought
a striking accomplishment or unusual and authentic depth of commitment to an interest
a notable sense of imagination, curiosity or creativity
a perspective or experiences atypical of the student body
a demonstrated sense of compassion or concern for others
a resilience in response to challenging circumstances or events.

There are many other interesting qualities, which is why your thoughtful consideration of each student and your willingness to describe your thoughts and observations in detail are valuable.

We know it can be difficult to discern certain qualities in a relatively short conversation, but we hope the suggested interview questions provided in your training materials offer some guidance.

Beyond being articulate and enthusiastic, how thoughtful or reflective is the applicant compared to their peers?
How engaged is the applicant in their commitments and why do they matter to them?
Is there a personal quality of the applicant that stands out even among the most high-achieving and engaged applicants?
Is there anything specific you think they might add to the university community?
What is their sense of Duke, and how well do they know us?


Hope this helps some folks still interviewing or juniors!! Wish we’d had this cheat sheet!!

[Anonymous]

^^^
This is what most T10 are looking for. It’s not about the stats. Make sure your ECs, essays and LOR speak to this.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Northwestern:

They like real genuine kids - little to no exaggeration. AO are focused on:

Intellectual impact: Northwestern isn’t just concerned about learning for learning’s sake (although that’s important, too). They also want to see how you can take your work in the classroom and use it to impact the world around you.

Research: Northwestern wants students who will take advantage of all the research initiatives on campus. They want you to think about (and demonstrate) entrepreneurship, innovation, and a keen eye for research.

Student support and community: Northwestern is big on supporting students and maintaining a strong sense of community. Browsing through information about student life will help you find your “fit.”

While academic preparation is the most important factor overall in the admissions process, this is a weeding out factor, meant to ensure that all of the students at Northwestern are academically prepared for the rigors of college courses. Excelling academically alone is not enough to guarantee acceptance. Northwestern uses a holistic admissions process, and while academics are considered in this, they are not the entirety of what the school is looking for.

Northwestern is interested in “fit,” the idea that a student and a college should be well-suited for each other. That is the students strengths, and what they want to pursue, should line up with what the school is looking for, and what they can offer to the student in turn. Students who are passionate, intellectually curious, and academically driven fit into the idea of Northwestern.

For extracurricular involvement, Northwestern is looking for passionate, focused students, as most other elite universities are. Students who demonstrate considerable talent and aptitude in their own niche as specialists are more likely to stand out and gain acceptance. Students who are good at many things but not great at any one thing have a harder time standing out.

I saw a printout from an IECA meeting this month with a current NU admissions officer this week - it was a case study for IEC.
- Kids are reviewed first in the context of the school, and then in the context of the region (if they are brought forward)
- NU uses Landscape
- Unlike other schools, NU likes the resume attachment (so don't listen to college counselors who tell you not to include the resume - NU likes a resume if you have specialized/significant EC or other info that can't be relayed otherwise in the application
- Personal statement is less important (e.g., optional).
- The supplemental essays for NU are held to the very highest standards. It should be unique and so pointed that it's clear none was written for another school. The two optional supplements are not optional if you are not a recruited athlete.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Northwestern:

They like real genuine kids - little to no exaggeration. AO are focused on:

Intellectual impact: Northwestern isn’t just concerned about learning for learning’s sake (although that’s important, too). They also want to see how you can take your work in the classroom and use it to impact the world around you.

Research: Northwestern wants students who will take advantage of all the research initiatives on campus. They want you to think about (and demonstrate) entrepreneurship, innovation, and a keen eye for research.

Student support and community: Northwestern is big on supporting students and maintaining a strong sense of community. Browsing through information about student life will help you find your “fit.”

While academic preparation is the most important factor overall in the admissions process, this is a weeding out factor, meant to ensure that all of the students at Northwestern are academically prepared for the rigors of college courses. Excelling academically alone is not enough to guarantee acceptance. Northwestern uses a holistic admissions process, and while academics are considered in this, they are not the entirety of what the school is looking for.

Northwestern is interested in “fit,” the idea that a student and a college should be well-suited for each other. That is the students strengths, and what they want to pursue, should line up with what the school is looking for, and what they can offer to the student in turn. Students who are passionate, intellectually curious, and academically driven fit into the idea of Northwestern.

For extracurricular involvement, Northwestern is looking for passionate, focused students, as most other elite universities are. Students who demonstrate considerable talent and aptitude in their own niche as specialists are more likely to stand out and gain acceptance. Students who are good at many things but not great at any one thing have a harder time standing out.

Other big parts of NU's application review process:

Team-Based Reading
During the Early Decision cycle, applications are initially reviewed through a method known as "Team-Based Reading." In this phase, teams of two admissions officers collaboratively review each application file. This approach ensures a comprehensive assessment from multiple perspectives, which helps the admissions team gain a deeper understanding of each applicant's unique context and potential.

Class Shaping
Following the initial review, the process moves into the "Class Shaping" stage. Here, decisions are refined to ensure a diverse class, balancing factors such as academic interests, geographic origin, and other institutional priorities. This stage is crucial for building a well-rounded student body that aligns with Northwestern's values and goals.

Evaluation in School Groups
It is important to note that applications are evaluated in "school groups." This means that your profile will be viewed not only holistically but also in comparison to peers from your own high school. This approach places a strong emphasis on selecting the most challenging courses available and standing out within your specific educational context. Excelling academically and being an active participant in your local community is critical to improving your chances of admission.


How Academic Rigor is Graded at Northwestern
Northwestern evaluates academic rigor on a scale from 1 to 5, with a '1' or '2' typically required for admission:

Academic Rigor
Rating Description How to Achieve[i]
1 Highest Rigor Top 3% of class, 1500+ SAT/33+ ACT, maximizing AP/IB/Honors courses, demonstrated intellectual curiosity through research, high AP exam scores

2 Strong Rigor Competitive class rank, strong SAT/ACT scores, challenging coursework within context of your school
3 Moderate Rigor Solid academic performance, consistent effort in core subjects
4 Below Average Rigor Minimal engagement in challenging coursework
5 Limited Rigor Very limited academic effort

Extracurriculars:
At Northwestern University, extracurricular activities are not just a complement to your academic performance; they are a core part of your application, making up 30% of the overall evaluation. [This is higher than DUKE]

Northwestern assesses extracurricular involvement on a scale from 1 to 5, focusing on leadership and impact. It's essential that your involvement is not merely extensive but meaningful—leadership roles, national awards, or initiatives that have significantly impacted your community are highly valued.

Extracurricular Impact[u]
Rating Description Examples
1 National/International Recognition Olympic athlete, major film/TV roles, national youth orchestra
2 State-Level Achievement State-level music ensemble, Boys/Girls State, all-state athletic team, university-published research
3 Localized Leadership Captain of sports team, Gold Award/Eagle Scout, president of a significant club
4 Consistent Involvement Active member in multiple clubs or organizations for 2+ years
5 No Involvement NA

For the person looking for info on Northwestern.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Northwestern:

They like real genuine kids - little to no exaggeration. AO are focused on:

Intellectual impact: Northwestern isn’t just concerned about learning for learning’s sake (although that’s important, too). They also want to see how you can take your work in the classroom and use it to impact the world around you.

Research: Northwestern wants students who will take advantage of all the research initiatives on campus. They want you to think about (and demonstrate) entrepreneurship, innovation, and a keen eye for research.

Student support and community: Northwestern is big on supporting students and maintaining a strong sense of community. Browsing through information about student life will help you find your “fit.”

While academic preparation is the most important factor overall in the admissions process, this is a weeding out factor, meant to ensure that all of the students at Northwestern are academically prepared for the rigors of college courses. Excelling academically alone is not enough to guarantee acceptance. Northwestern uses a holistic admissions process, and while academics are considered in this, they are not the entirety of what the school is looking for.

Northwestern is interested in “fit,” the idea that a student and a college should be well-suited for each other. That is the students strengths, and what they want to pursue, should line up with what the school is looking for, and what they can offer to the student in turn. Students who are passionate, intellectually curious, and academically driven fit into the idea of Northwestern.

For extracurricular involvement, Northwestern is looking for passionate, focused students, as most other elite universities are. Students who demonstrate considerable talent and aptitude in their own niche as specialists are more likely to stand out and gain acceptance. Students who are good at many things but not great at any one thing have a harder time standing out.

Other big parts of NU's application review process:

Team-Based Reading
During the Early Decision cycle, applications are initially reviewed through a method known as "Team-Based Reading." In this phase, teams of two admissions officers collaboratively review each application file. This approach ensures a comprehensive assessment from multiple perspectives, which helps the admissions team gain a deeper understanding of each applicant's unique context and potential.

Class Shaping
Following the initial review, the process moves into the "Class Shaping" stage. Here, decisions are refined to ensure a diverse class, balancing factors such as academic interests, geographic origin, and other institutional priorities. This stage is crucial for building a well-rounded student body that aligns with Northwestern's values and goals.

Evaluation in School Groups
It is important to note that applications are evaluated in "school groups." This means that your profile will be viewed not only holistically but also in comparison to peers from your own high school. This approach places a strong emphasis on selecting the most challenging courses available and standing out within your specific educational context. Excelling academically and being an active participant in your local community is critical to improving your chances of admission.


How Academic Rigor is Graded at Northwestern
Northwestern evaluates academic rigor on a scale from 1 to 5, with a '1' or '2' typically required for admission:

Academic Rigor
Rating Description How to Achieve[i]
1 Highest Rigor Top 3% of class, 1500+ SAT/33+ ACT, maximizing AP/IB/Honors courses, demonstrated intellectual curiosity through research, high AP exam scores

2 Strong Rigor Competitive class rank, strong SAT/ACT scores, challenging coursework within context of your school
3 Moderate Rigor Solid academic performance, consistent effort in core subjects
4 Below Average Rigor Minimal engagement in challenging coursework
5 Limited Rigor Very limited academic effort

Extracurriculars:
At Northwestern University, extracurricular activities are not just a complement to your academic performance; they are a core part of your application, making up 30% of the overall evaluation. [This is higher than DUKE]

Northwestern assesses extracurricular involvement on a scale from 1 to 5, focusing on leadership and impact. It's essential that your involvement is not merely extensive but meaningful—leadership roles, national awards, or initiatives that have significantly impacted your community are highly valued.

Extracurricular Impact[u]
Rating Description Examples
1 National/International Recognition Olympic athlete, major film/TV roles, national youth orchestra
2 State-Level Achievement State-level music ensemble, Boys/Girls State, all-state athletic team, university-published research
3 Localized Leadership Captain of sports team, Gold Award/Eagle Scout, president of a significant club
4 Consistent Involvement Active member in multiple clubs or organizations for 2+ years
5 No Involvement NA

For the person looking for info on Northwestern.

Thank you! Very helpful.

I think DC can only make it to 3 on EC.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Northwestern:

They like real genuine kids - little to no exaggeration. AO are focused on:

Intellectual impact: Northwestern isn’t just concerned about learning for learning’s sake (although that’s important, too). They also want to see how you can take your work in the classroom and use it to impact the world around you.

Research: Northwestern wants students who will take advantage of all the research initiatives on campus. They want you to think about (and demonstrate) entrepreneurship, innovation, and a keen eye for research.

Student support and community: Northwestern is big on supporting students and maintaining a strong sense of community. Browsing through information about student life will help you find your “fit.”

While academic preparation is the most important factor overall in the admissions process, this is a weeding out factor, meant to ensure that all of the students at Northwestern are academically prepared for the rigors of college courses. Excelling academically alone is not enough to guarantee acceptance. Northwestern uses a holistic admissions process, and while academics are considered in this, they are not the entirety of what the school is looking for.

Northwestern is interested in “fit,” the idea that a student and a college should be well-suited for each other. That is the students strengths, and what they want to pursue, should line up with what the school is looking for, and what they can offer to the student in turn. Students who are passionate, intellectually curious, and academically driven fit into the idea of Northwestern.

For extracurricular involvement, Northwestern is looking for passionate, focused students, as most other elite universities are. Students who demonstrate considerable talent and aptitude in their own niche as specialists are more likely to stand out and gain acceptance. Students who are good at many things but not great at any one thing have a harder time standing out.

Other big parts of NU's application review process:

Team-Based Reading
During the Early Decision cycle, applications are initially reviewed through a method known as "Team-Based Reading." In this phase, teams of two admissions officers collaboratively review each application file. This approach ensures a comprehensive assessment from multiple perspectives, which helps the admissions team gain a deeper understanding of each applicant's unique context and potential.

Class Shaping
Following the initial review, the process moves into the "Class Shaping" stage. Here, decisions are refined to ensure a diverse class, balancing factors such as academic interests, geographic origin, and other institutional priorities. This stage is crucial for building a well-rounded student body that aligns with Northwestern's values and goals.

Evaluation in School Groups
It is important to note that applications are evaluated in "school groups." This means that your profile will be viewed not only holistically but also in comparison to peers from your own high school. This approach places a strong emphasis on selecting the most challenging courses available and standing out within your specific educational context. Excelling academically and being an active participant in your local community is critical to improving your chances of admission.


How Academic Rigor is Graded at Northwestern
Northwestern evaluates academic rigor on a scale from 1 to 5, with a '1' or '2' typically required for admission:

Academic Rigor
Rating Description How to Achieve[i]
1 Highest Rigor Top 3% of class, 1500+ SAT/33+ ACT, maximizing AP/IB/Honors courses, demonstrated intellectual curiosity through research, high AP exam scores

2 Strong Rigor Competitive class rank, strong SAT/ACT scores, challenging coursework within context of your school
3 Moderate Rigor Solid academic performance, consistent effort in core subjects
4 Below Average Rigor Minimal engagement in challenging coursework
5 Limited Rigor Very limited academic effort

Extracurriculars:
At Northwestern University, extracurricular activities are not just a complement to your academic performance; they are a core part of your application, making up 30% of the overall evaluation. [This is higher than DUKE]

Northwestern assesses extracurricular involvement on a scale from 1 to 5, focusing on leadership and impact. It's essential that your involvement is not merely extensive but meaningful—leadership roles, national awards, or initiatives that have significantly impacted your community are highly valued.

Extracurricular Impact[u]
Rating Description Examples
1 National/International Recognition Olympic athlete, major film/TV roles, national youth orchestra
2 State-Level Achievement State-level music ensemble, Boys/Girls State, all-state athletic team, university-published research
3 Localized Leadership Captain of sports team, Gold Award/Eagle Scout, president of a significant club
4 Consistent Involvement Active member in multiple clubs or organizations for 2+ years
5 No Involvement NA

For the person looking for info on Northwestern.

Thank you! Very helpful.

I think DC can only make it to 3 on EC.

DC has a personal passion project, but it's hardly world class.