Holistic Admissions in Higher Education

Abstract

As U.S. higher education institutions adapt their admissions policies to advance diversity and inclusion, holistic admissions has taken a center stage in many institutions’ admissions practices. This article provides an overview of the definition of holistic admissions, the differences between holistic admissions and other types of admissions, challenges and promises in implementing holistic review, particularly around the test-optional component, evidence of desired outcomes of holistic admissions, and future research needs.