What Makes an Applicant Stand Out?

In this podcast episode, the Yale admissions officers address the question of what makes an applicant stand out in their admissions process. They stress that the selection process is not about amassing points or having a perfect application, but rather about standing out among a large pool of strong applicants. The officers emphasize the importance of fit, both academically and in terms of engaging with and contributing to the Yale community. They look for students who demonstrate genuine academic curiosity, a willingness to collaborate, and a high impact on their communities. While exceptional accomplishments are valued, it is the person behind those accomplishments that matters most.