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Across America the dream of gaining higher education has become increasingly competitive as college acceptance rates hit historic lows. This trend is impacting both public and private universities and colleges as acceptance rates drop lower and lower every year, creating a new level of stress for students and families.
Over the years the amount of applications has increased due to several factors of the growing emphasis on gaining a college degree and the ease of online submissions. Boston University and the University of Miami saw admission rates drop 20%. This means less than 1 in 5 applicants were accepted. While the number of applications rises, the number of available spots stays the same. With acceptance rates dropping, schools offering a “test optional” choice, and increased competition, students are applying to more colleges than in the past. While more and more students apply, colleges reject more students, making students apply to more schools creating a vicious cycle.
This trend is heavily impacting college bound teens. Students are under severe pressure to fill their resumes to the maximum while keeping stellar grades. Students’ mental health is depleting with a rise in depression and anxiety amongst college bound teens. The fear of not measuring up and comparing to peers and other students creates immense pressure on students. The constant pressure students face leads to burnout and stress related disorders.
Citations:
https://www.sparkadmissions.com/blog/why-are-college-admission-rates-so-low-and-not-just-at-the-ivy-league/
https://thecollegeinvestor.com/44292/why-are-college-acceptance-rates-decreasing/?srsltid=AfmBOoqzu-7G5eg6TdTR1EOOS0sZXnF63k9EXJbDvtZIIrMhqDke8kmv