Policy and Practice in U.S. College Admissions

This research article presents findings from a College Board survey conducted in July 2025, focusing on college admissions policies and practices for the 2024-25 admissions cycle. The survey aimed to gather insights on the pathways colleges offer for admission, the processes used to review applicants, and the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in admissions. The report outlines how many colleges have adapted their admissions practices in response to recent developments, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and legal changes regarding race considerations in admissions. Key findings indicate that regular decision is the most common admission pathway, with a significant number of colleges employing holistic review methods. The use of AI in admissions remains limited, although many institutions are considering its application in future cycles. The article compares current survey responses with those from a similar survey conducted in 2024, highlighting shifts in admissions practices and requirements across different types of colleges.