In Part 1 of this blog series, we discussed offers of admission that seniors may receive. These may include the sometimes surprising requirement to start in either the summer or spring, at an alternate campus, or even in a different academic program, including online. Such decisions are usually final. But, what if, as a rising senior, you find these admissions options attractive? Some schools will allow you to apply for these programs, which may – but not always! -- improve your chances of getting in. Read on for more information.
If you’re a student eager to start college as soon as possible, consider applying for a summer- term start. While some schools limit summer term admission to “invitation only,” others allow students to explicitly apply for summer terms. Penn State asks students on their application if they’d like to start in the summer, and notes that admission is more favorable: “Those students who are interested in University Park and would like to increase their chances of admission to that campus have the option of indicating interest in the summer session.” Nearly all of the state universities in Florida let students apply for summer start, and in most cases, admission is slightly less competitive, with mid-50% test scores and GPAs a bit lower than the ranges for students accepted to fall. In both cases, students take two summer courses while enjoying a smaller student population, easier access to advising, and the opportunity to connect with classmates sooner.
Emory University offers applicants the choice of starting at its Oxford College, about 40 miles southeast of Atlanta. Billed as “one of two ways to start your Emory undergraduate education,” Oxford College offers students their first two years on its campus prior to transitioning to Emory’s main Atlanta campus. Admission is competitive, but slightly less so than admission to Emory. Unlike its PaCE program, UF’s Innovation Academy is not a true pathway to the traditional fall-spring academic calendar; rather, it gives students the chance to pursue their studies in Gainesville following a unique spring-summer schedule with an education centered around innovation. Students admitted to IA cannot appeal to start in summer or fall, so choose wisely.
As you can see, the world of college admissions is no longer as simple as picking a school and starting in the fall. Admitted students are increasingly offered a variety of pathways – only a few of which we have highlighted in this series. As rising seniors begin working on college applications, we know questions will arise about these options. Do you need help discerning which college, and which plan, is the best match for you? Give us a call! Our college counseling experts are familiar with these alternate entry routes and are ready to assist you.