How to Transform Your College Application Ranking to “2”

One unexpected benefit of last year’s affirmative action lawsuit against elite institutions like Harvard is that it revealed valuable insights into what really happens behind those prestigious admissions doors.

Understanding the Rating System

Many top universities, Harvard included, use a comprehensive rating system to assess every applicant. At Harvard, candidates receive scores from 1 to 6 in various areas such as academics, extracurricular involvement, personal traits, and other criteria.

The Elusive “1” Rating

A top score of “1” is given to an extremely select group—roughly 50 applicants per year—who typically have achieved international recognition, whether through groundbreaking research, launching successful startups, or excelling as Olympic-level athletes. While earning a “1” nearly ensures admission, it’s a rarity and not a realistic goal for most students.

The Critical “3” to “2” Leap

The difference between receiving a “3” and a “2” score can be pivotal. A “3” is the most common score, and unfortunately, it doesn’t help an applicant stand out in the crowded field of qualified candidates. These students often have solid grades and leadership roles in several clubs, yet they lack a distinctive narrative or a clear, focused passion.

What Makes a “2” Rating Special

Elevating an application from a “3” to a “2” can dramatically boost admission chances by over 40%. While “2” applicants share many qualities with their “3” counterparts—strong academics and leadership—they also demonstrate unmistakable initiative in a specific area. Perhaps they’ve conducted peer-reviewed physics research published in a national journal, or maybe a student interested in law and government launched an international policy journal at school and grew its readership.

Key Takeaways

The path to a “2” rating requires more than just good grades and standard extracurricular activities. It demands focused passion, initiative, and tangible achievements in your chosen field. Start early, choose your focus area wisely, and work consistently towards making a meaningful impact.