Shifting Views on College Rankings
Recent research by Kaplan, a global educational services provider, highlights a significant change among college admissions officers regarding the relevance of college rankings. A survey involving over 200 admissions professionals found that 75 percent now think that college and university rankings have lost their importance over the past few years. This marks a noticeable increase from the 56 percent who felt similarly in an earlier Kaplan survey. These findings come at a time when prominent outlets have just released their 2025 rankings, sparking a vital conversation about how these rankings influence the admissions process.
How Rankings Influence Admissions Decisions
Institutional Participation in Rankings
The Kaplan survey also reveals that around 13 percent of colleges currently involved with rankings are considering stepping away from them entirely. This indicates a growing uncertainty among institutions about the relevance and effects of rankings on attracting students and shaping their reputation.
Voices from Admissions Officers
Those who took part in the Kaplan survey shared diverse perspectives on the implications of rankings:
- Numerous admissions officers pointed out the flaws inherent in rankings, noting that the general public tends to overvalue them without fully grasping the methodologies behind their creation. Some highlighted that schools may find themselves trapped in a competitive cycle, where being the first to withdraw from rankings could lead to negative outcomes.
- Concerns arose about certain institutions potentially inflating data to boost their rankings, which could mislead students in search of the right academic environment.
- A few admissions officers criticized the trust placed in ranking organizations, arguing that these overall assessments fail to represent the unique qualities of each school.
- While some agree that rankings can provide useful insights, they emphasize that these shouldn't be seen as the ultimate measure of quality. A lower-ranked school can still offer fantastic educational opportunities and be a perfect fit for many students.
The Human Element in College Selection
As competition grows fiercer, admissions officers acknowledge that the recurring release of rankings can generate anxiety for colleges. Jason Bedford, senior vice president at Kaplan, commented on this pressure, noting that for many highly ranked schools, their position in these rankings becomes a vital tool for recruitment and fundraising. "Even though these rankings take important statistics into account, like graduation rates, prospective students shouldn’t base their decisions solely on them," Bedford cautioned.
Finding the Right Fit
Financial considerations, such as price and aid, play a crucial role in students' choices. Kaplan encourages students and their families to participate in campus visits, interact with current students and faculty, and evaluate various elements of a school. This hands-on approach can help prospective students uncover personal factors and academic opportunities that may outweigh the traditional ranking metrics. This can lead to finding educational environments that are better suited to their needs.
About Kaplan, Inc.
Kaplan, Inc. has been a leader in global education services, working to help individuals and institutions achieve their educational goals. Founded in 1938 by Stanley Kaplan, the organization aims to make education accessible to students from all backgrounds. Today, Kaplan serves around 1.2 million students and professionals in 27 countries, offering a wide range of tailored solutions for students, educational institutions, and businesses to enhance their learning experiences and recruitment efforts. As a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC), Kaplan remains committed to empowering learners worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Kaplan's survey reveal about college rankings?
The survey shows that a growing percentage of college admissions officers believe that college rankings have lost their significance in recent years.
Why are some colleges considering abandoning rankings?
Many colleges feel that rankings do not accurately reflect their true value and may mislead students about their fit.
What other factors should students consider when selecting a college?
Students should focus on visiting campuses, building relationships with faculty, and fully exploring financial aid options rather than relying solely on rankings.
How do college rankings impact admissions officers?
Rankings generate stress and competition among colleges, influencing recruitment strategies and the decisions made by admissions teams.
What is Kaplan's primary mission?
Kaplan's mission is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds in advancing their education and careers through a variety of educational services.
