Decoding College Admissions Jargon: A Glossary for Parents and Students

Navigating the college admissions process can feel like deciphering a secret code, with its unique language and acronyms. Fear not! This glossary is your key to understanding the jargon and terminology that often leaves parents and students scratching their heads.

1. Common Application (Common App):

A standardized college application used by many institutions. Students can apply to multiple colleges using the same application, streamlining the process.

2. Early Decision (ED):

An admissions process where students apply to their top-choice college early in their senior year. If accepted, they must attend that college and withdraw other applications.

3. Early Action (EA):

Similar to Early Decision but non-binding. Students apply early and receive an early response but can choose to attend another college.

4. Yield:

The percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll in a particular college. High yield indicates a college's desirability.

5. Reach, Match, Safety:

Categories for colleges based on admission likelihood. Reach schools are ambitious choices, match schools are realistic, and safety schools are likely admits.

6. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):

A form submitted by students seeking financial aid. It determines eligibility for federal and state aid, as well as institutional grants.

7. CSS Profile:

A financial aid application required by some colleges to assess eligibility for non-federal aid. It delves deeper into a family's financial situation.

8. Waitlist:

An uncertain status where an applicant is neither accepted nor rejected but may be offered a spot if space becomes available.

9. Demonstrated Interest:

Actions that show a student's genuine interest in a college, such as campus visits, interviews, or engagement with the admissions office.

10. Deferral:

When a college postpones the decision on an Early Action or Early Decision application to the regular decision round.

11. Holistic Admissions:

An approach that considers various aspects of an applicant's profile, including academics, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations.

12. Legacy Applicant:

A student applying to a college where a family member, usually a parent, attended.

13. Admissions Committee:

A group of individuals responsible for reviewing and making decisions on college applications.

14. Test-Optional:

A policy where standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are not required for admission. Many colleges adopted this approach to increase access and equity.

15. Merit Aid:

Financial aid awarded based on a student's achievements, talents, or characteristics, rather than financial need.

Understanding these terms will empower both parents and students as they navigate the intricate landscape of college admissions.