University and College Admissions Trends Report 2025
Admissions in higher education are undergoing rapid transformation. As we enter 2025, institutions must navigate significant challenges, from the long-anticipated enrollment cliff to the increasing role of AI in admissions and shifting perceptions of higher education’s value.
Colleges and universities are rethinking recruitment, focusing on retention, and emphasizing the broader impact of higher education to students and families. They are moving away from standardized tests, rigid deadlines, and fully manual workflows, embracing more personalized, flexible, and efficient approaches.
Key Admissions Trends for 2025:
- AI’s role in holistic review
- Recruitment and retention challenges
- The impact of AI on applications
- Evolving admissions and funding policies
- Communicating the value of higher education
- Moving beyond traditional metrics
AI is Reshaping Holistic Review
AI is transforming how admissions teams assess applicants, streamlining workflows while identifying qualities like leadership and resilience.
Institutions must strike a balance between efficiency and deeper applicant insights. Instead of relying solely on test scores and GPAs, admissions teams are embracing a broader approach to applicant evaluation.
What should institutions do?
Incorporate AI into holistic review processes strategically, ensuring it enhances rather than replaces human judgment.
Adapting to Changing Admissions and Funding Policies
Colleges are adjusting admissions criteria and strengthening compliance as financial aid policies, affirmative action rulings, and DEI considerations evolve.
What should institutions do?
Stay proactive in adjusting policies to align with new regulations while maintaining commitments to diversity and access.
Communicating Higher Education’s Value Beyond the Institution
With skepticism about the return on investment of a college degree growing, schools must advocate for the broader benefits of higher education while emphasizing their unique value proposition.
What should institutions do?
Highlight career readiness, experiential learning, and alumni success to rebuild trust in higher education.
Moving Beyond Traditional Metrics in Admissions
Holistic admissions are evolving, with institutions focusing on leadership, resilience, and soft skills over standardized test scores.
What should institutions do?
Adopt structured, evidence-based methods for evaluating non-cognitive skills to ensure a fair and inclusive admissions process.
Prepare for What’s Ahead in 2025
Gain insights into the trends shaping admissions and take action to stay ahead.
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