Highly Selective US Universities

Things to consider if applying to highly selective US universities (~1%-20% acceptance rate)

1. Admission is not guaranteed, even for students with perfect or near-perfect transcripts and predicted grades. The UAC has confidential data sets for Grade 11 students to help inform their decision-making. Grades 9 and 10 can view our historical data scattergrams in Maia Learning. 

2. Admission to highly selective US universities is "holistic" meaning that strong academics are the minimum requirement to be considered. "Having a try" at a university outside of your academic range is not smart choice.

3. Many US universities and programs are just as selective as (if not more selective than) Ivy League universities. Universities such as University of Chicago, Duke, Rice, Amherst, Williams, Claremont McKenna, and Pomona are not "backup" options. 

4. Holistic US admissions includes a review of many factors beyond a student's control, such as their family background, country of passport, and priorities of the university for any given year.

5. Ask yourself these questions: Have I made a significant impact in my community? Have I authentically pursued my true interests? Have I shown long-term commitment and initiative within my community? Have I been consistently achieving strong grades from Grades 9-11? Am I a kind person with strong character? Could my teachers write a strong recommendation letter for me based on how I engage in their classes? If your answers are mostly positive, you could be a strong candidate for a highly selective university. 

6. "Highly Selective" does not necessarily mean "best" or "top" or "most prestigious" university. We operate on an advising philosophy of helping you find several good fits based on your own criteria, not based on reputation, prestige, or a number on a rankings list. Highly selective universities could be a great fit to help you and your future goals.

CHOOSING STRATEGICALLY

1. Consider your own priorities about the campus offerings and experiences you will have. 

2. Consider the cost and return on investment. What opportunities are available to you? 

3. Look at the UAC's confidential historical data sets with your university advisor (Grade 11 students only) to get an idea of where you might land in the applicant pool as well as context about the previous applicants.

4. If the US is your main destination, you will also need to have several moderately selective or less selective US universities on your list to ensure that you receive more than one viable offer.