After you click the “submit” button, it’s easy to feel as though your application has entered a black hole. But what really happens between the time you apply and when you receive your decision? We understand that not knowing the details can add even more anxiety to this process, so we’re happy to shed a little light on what we do.
The Completed Application
Once your application is complete, we forward your credentials to the admission counselor in charge of your school and/or region. Although several members of our staff will have the opportunity to comment on your file, at least one evaluator will have a strong working knowledge of your community and school to offer context and insight.
Reviewing the Application
Throughout our process, we look at every applicant as an individual. As a private university, we have no school, state, or regional quotas to fill. We review all of the required documents and make our admission recommendations based on all the facts. Although we are considered a selective institution, we do not solely base our decisions on any one factor; we take a more holistic approach.
Here's a peek into how we review your file and what we're looking for.
- Personal Information
We look for anything about the student’s background or family information that stands out. If you have any special circumstances, be sure to share this information.
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Transcript
We are looking at the grades you received over the years. Additionally, we like to see students who have taken advanced or challenging courses.
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SAT/ ACT Scores
We look at the SAT Math and Critical Reading scores. For these scores we are looking to see how strongly you scored, how your score fit into the range of your high school profile, and the correlation between your scores and GPA.
The SAT 4-digit code for Santa Clara University is 4851.
The ACT 4-digit code for Santa Clara University is 0468.
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Activities
Both in and outside of the classroom, specifically we are looking at time commitment. Have the activities been sustained over a period of time? Did the student hold leadership roles?
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Essay
The essay does matter and we read every one. This can be a significant tip factor in a decision. We want to learn something about you, so be yourself, be concise, and proofread, proofread, proofread.
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Letter of Recommendation
We are looking to learn a bit more about you as a student. What struck a teacher about a student? We are looking to learn more about you and whether you are able to meet the academic demands of SCU.
