UC's do not read college application essays

LottieM
Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:35:57 +0000

Admissions to the UC’s has been litigated over the past two decades. It began in the 80’s, when the number of Asians accepted into top UC schools reached about 20- 25%, and remained at the level. Great students - who happened to be Asian-and their parents and counselors began to question why top Asian students were not getting into UCLA and UC Berkeley when their white counterparts were. This was addressed via the courts, and oversight committees were established that would review all admission decisions so as to reduce discrimination against Asians. Subsequently, a state proposition was passed that banned any consideration of race in admissions. However, a small loophole was made, in that disadvantaged students could receive extra points. It is in the essay that disadvantaged students can discuss their particular obstacles and struggles. However, GPA and standardized test scores are the mainstay of admissions. Each essay is read, as is demanded by legally binding admission policies. Again, UC admissions = a heavily regulated and litigious process. There are outside overview committees that can monitor and review admission decisions, in order to ensure that state law and UC policies are being followed.