Important 2026 College Admission Trends High Schoolers Should Know

by Kamlia A-F

High school is the transition period going from a teenager to adulthood, which means it is when students decide whether they want to go to college, the workforce, a gap year or even the military after graduation. 

While getting advice from parents or previous generations is important in terms of forming the best plan for a future college student, it's best for this generation to focus on the changes that have occurred. What universities are looking for in applicants has changed in the last decade, and the lifestyle of young adults have also changed with it. For those interested in college, here are some things to consider: 

While colleges shifted to test-optional (meaning students had the choice to add their SAT and/or ACT scores to their application) following the covid pandemic, as explained in New York Times article by David Leonhart. He goes on to explain “It reflects a backlash against standardized tests that began long before the pandemic, and many people have hailed the change as a victory for equity in higher education.” which is a reference to the arguments people have had against the testing in general. Previous to the COVID, arguments surrounding the disadvantaged minorities and lower class individuals had when testing.

However, after universities switched to test-optional for a while, many administrators would change their mind on the policies. They're regarded to reflect academic capability better than just grade transcripts, leading to more elite and selective colleges requiring test scores again. While many still are technically test options, it is highly recommended to add them, especially if the scores are on the higher end. 

Another trend to closely follow is the competitiveness of majors. In regards to getting into different programs offered at colleges. Business, especially for male students, is the most commonly chosen major in the U.S. Other fields include health professions, Engineering, and now technology based. If those are fields of interest, students should be aware of the competitiveness in the programs. This way, they're able to focus more on how to make themselves stand out while in high school. On the other hand, it also gives students an idea of what types of majors will be beneficial to them beyond college. The reason for the popularity among these types of majors aligns with what the job market is looking for and what kinds of graduates are able to find employment faster. 

Another trend is the shift in selectiveness depending on region. Many applicants before used schools in the southern region as "backups", due to the Northeast being regarded as the more "educated region”in the U.S and is home to many prestigious universities. However, interests have shifted towards some colleges in the South. This is due to various reasons, like the more social culture and affordability. Regardless, the rise in applicants have caused certain colleges to become more selective than they previously were. Viewing these schools as "safeties” might not be the best mindset to have when applying. 

All these trends are important to keep in mind when considering the schools that’ll fit the best for specifically juniors and seniors. Standards for admissions change, and students should be aware to adapt along with those changes.