Navigating the Admissions Surge: The Role of AI in Processing Applications at mega schools
As college admissions become increasingly competitive, major institutions like the University of North Carolina (UNC) are facing a remarkable surge in application numbers. During the recent admissions cycle, UNC received an astonishing ~73,000 applications—marking a 15% increase from the previous year and setting a new record for the institution. For applicants, this surge can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but for admissions offices, it presents substantial challenges.
Given the nine-month window from November 1 to April 1 admissions professionals have to review applications, the sheer volume of submissions can be overwhelming. Even if each application is reviewed for an average of 7 minutes (a well-known industry number), the math reveals a staggering demand on resources. With 73,000 applications, that amounts to approximately 1,065 days of continuous work. If admissions staff were working 7 days a week, it would take nearly 3 years to review all applications for just 7 minutes each. This stark reality highlights the difficulty of maintaining quality and consistency in evaluations under such pressure.
To no one’s surprise, universities are turning to innovative solutions, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assist in the admissions process. A recent report by The Daily Tar Heel illuminated how UNC employs the Project Essay Grade (PEG) engine, developed by Measurement Incorporated. This automated scoring system assesses applicants’ essays for grammar and writing quality and serves as a supplementary tool in the review process.
The PEG engine utilizes machine learning, a subset of AI that analyzes data to predict scores based on established characteristics that align with previous human evaluations. This approach does not replace human judgment but rather enhances it by providing an additional data point that can help streamline the admissions review.
This collaboration between human reviewers and AI technology allows admissions teams to maintain a holistic evaluation process. They can assess each applicant not only based on their essays but also on performance, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. Each application is still carefully read, ensuring that the nuanced aspects of a student’s character are considered alongside the auto-generated essay scores.
Reactions to the incorporation of AI in the admissions process have been mixed. Some students have expressed concerns about transparency regarding how their applications are evaluated—they’re pouring their hearts and souls into these applications. However, many recognize the potential benefits of AI when used ethically, acknowledging that it can significantly enhance the efficiency of the admissions process during this record-breaking cycle.
As universities continue to navigate the complexities of growing application numbers, AI offers a pathway to balance the demands of timely reviews with the need for a thorough and equitable selection process. By integrating these advanced tools, institutions like UNC reaffirm their commitment to identifying the best candidates for their programs, even as they adapt to the evolving landscape of college admissions.
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