Supporting New Jersey Students: College Admissions Trends in 2023

Remaining abreast of the constantly changing landscape surrounding college admissions is imperative for school counselors, to ensure that we are providing all students with the most relevant and pertinent information. A thorough understanding of the following trends will provide high school counselors with the acumen to support students in managing expectations and making smarter decisions throughout the college admissions process.

Submitting SAT and ACT Scores
According to FairTest.org (2023), more than 2,000 colleges and universities “do not require all or most recent U.S. high school graduates applying for fall 2024 to submit ACT/SAT results before admissions decisions are made.” With this increase in test-optional schools, it is still advisable for students to submit scores, especially if they are falling at or above the 50th percentile of the most recently admitted class. Students should also focus on test subscores that align with intended majors, as an indicator of possible score submission.

Application Volume
As a result of the increase in score-optional admissions, the past two admissions cycles have noted significant increases in applications. The Common Application (2023) reported that they saw a 24 percent increase in application volume from 2019 to 2023. Increased application volume has resulted in a decline in admissions rates. In this current environment, assisting students in managing their expectations will continue to be of significance, especially as it relates to supporting students in identifying a range of schools that are a possible fit.

No More Affirmative Action
In June 2023, the Supreme Court dismantled established equal protection in college admissions with SFFA v. Harvard and SFFA v. UNC, claiming that the admissions programs used by these schools violate the Constitution’s equal protection clause, which bars racial discrimination by government entities. It is anticipated that legacy preferences and early admissions, both systems that have historically benefited White students, will do so at ever increasing rates. There are also concerns that the admissions process will become increasingly more opaque as universities attempt to admit a diverse student population, while also following the law. It is now more important than ever that school counselors work to identify and remove inequitable barriers to higher education by ensuring that their school enables all students to access and engage with educational opportunities.

The New and Improved FAFSA
With the much anticipated rollout of the December (possibly January 1) launch of the new FAFSA, students' financial aid packages/award letters quite likely will be delayed. However, if the introduction goes as planned then not only will the form be back to its October 1 availability in 2024, but it will also be much simpler for students/families to complete. Everyone will need an FSA ID to access the form, including those without SSNs, but the good news is that it will be available in 12 languages, requiring only 46 questions to complete (versus the previous 100+), and the applicant’s federal tax information (FTI) will be downloaded directly into the form. Further, students can add up to 20 colleges on the form (but only 10 if submitting via the paper FAFSA). As in the past, colleges cannot see which have been added to the form. It includes required demographic questions that are not seen by institutions but are used for research/statistical purposes only. Other changes include expanded eligibility and transparency for the Pell Grant, changes to the Student Aid Index Formula (specific to income and assets) and changes that impact specific types of applicants, such as those with divorced/separated parents and siblings in college. For independent students, there will be greater care taken as there will be fewer barriers, such as no need to re-prove independent status as long as they stay at the same institution.

Keeping Current
The wind blows and there seems to be a consistent flow of new headlines from higher education that affect how school counselors should be advising students and families. The trends range from AI effects on admissions – will the college essay become extinct? – to what mergers and acquisitions can be anticipated in 2024 and beyond due to enrollment challenges. The amount we need to keep tabs on is mind boggling, but it’s important to check in with sources like NACAC and higher ed experts like Jeff Selingo. Our New Jersey students, who historically rank as the most desirable students at postsecondary institutions, deserve quality advisement when it comes to college and career readiness guidance. That guidance and support starts with you.

Dr. Dana Karas is professional recognition co-chair for NJSCA and director of school counseling with South Plainfield School District; Barbara Cappucci is NJSCA postsecondary VP and a school counselor at Watchung Hills Regional High School.