25 Qualities the Ivy League, Stanford, MIT and other premier colleges look for
The regular decision acceptance rate at Stanford University is a “jaw dropping” 3.3%, while the overall acceptance rate is 4.3%. Harvard admissions is marginally easier. In other words, for even students supremely talented and academically gifted, the odds are unlikely to gain admission to America’s most elite universities. However, if you know what the Ivies look for, and if you prepare and execute, you have a chance.
| 1 | Academic Excellence | Intelligence demonstrated through GPA, SAT/ACT, SAT Subject Tests, AP Exams, National Merit Finalist, Science Olympiad finalists, Valedictorian or Salutatorian |
| 2 | Intellectual Curiosity | Love of Learning for the sake of learning, with a strong interest in academic research & the creation of knowledge to help solve one of the world’s pressing problems (published research) |
| 3 | Success | Achievement Through Challenging & Rigorous Coursework, and extracurriculars |
| 4 | Passion | Sustained Interest over several years, toward an inspiring long-term vision |
| 5 | Genuine Presentation of a central theme, | Authenticity, with a resounding life’s purpose, built with Confidence. |
| 6 | Outstanding Ethics | Moral Character, substantiated by deeds and letters of recommendation |
| 7 | Logical Thinker | Quantitative Problem-Solving Skills accompanied with Rational Thought |
| 8 | Good Judgement | Professional, Reliable and Selfless, validated in the letters of recommendation |
| 9 | Compelling Narrative |
|
| 10 | Student profile is consistent with the mission of the institution; Demonstrated Interest in the institution | Optimal Fit between student and the institution |
| 11 | Social Intelligence | Ability to work and play well with individuals and in teams, possesses an engaging personality that makes the people around them comfortable and productive |
| 12 | Sets SMART Goals
Self-Reflection |
Specific, Measurable, Attainable and Ambitious, Relevant and Time-Limited Career Goals;
SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats |
| 13 | Demonstrated calculated Risks; and taking advantage of and creating opportunities; high likelihood of optimizing use of the expansive resources on and off campus | Takes advantage of and creates opportunities; high likelihood of optimizing use of the resources on and off campus |
| 14 | Exceptional Personal Initiative | Enterprising resourcefulness, demonstrate high-impact leadership, creativity, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and community service |
| 15 | International Leadership Potential | Appreciates, navigates and can lead through cultural diversity |
| 16 | Global World View | Sees the world through a larger lens, not one limited to a local, regional, state or country perspective |
| 17 | Foreign Language Proficiency | Advanced proficiency in more than one language |
| 18 | Demonstrated Growth and Progression | Evolution over many years toward Mastery in Skills and inincreasing Responsibilities |
| 19 | Meaningful, Consistent & Compassionate Service to the Common Good | Un-selfish duty to Family, Community &/or Humanity |
| 20 | Special Talents & Experiences that differentiate you from the crowd. | Takes full advantage of opportunities presented to them – Overcomes Obstacles and Hardships; Rises to the occasion in stressful situations with bravery, courage and resolve |
| 21 | Exceptional communication skills | Written and Verbal |
| 22 | Calm Under Pressure: Ability to rationally manage problems and crises with a steady demeanor. | Handles Stress Well; Focuses on things he/she can control; and is indifferent to things outside of his/her complete control |
| 23 | Students that will contribute greatly to and benefit immensely from the entering class, the institution and the profession. | Students that are dedicated, committed and reliable. In essence, the student articulates clearly why they are a great fit for the institution |
| 24 | Possess an entrepreneurial spirit | The student doesn’t necessarily build companies, but creates something that didn’t exist before |
| 25 | In summary, a most Compelling applicant | So intriguing that the admissions committee member plans to go out of their way to have the honor to meet the student while on campus |