Applying to College by Video

Goucher College, a small, private liberal arts school in Baltimore has just come out with a new way to apply to their school. The traditional way to apply still exists using the Common Application, but they have created a very unique way to apply that may interest some students. We know that many schools are beginning to go test-optional, where they do not look at test scores, but put more focus on the academic transcript. However, Goucher is taking it a step further with their creation of the Goucher Video Application (GVA). If you choose to go this route, test scores and transcripts are not required. Yes, you read that right…they do not consider test scores or high school transcripts for admission! If you are accepted to Goucher, you will need to eventually send your transcript to be considered for merit scholarships, but not to be accepted to the school. This is a great option for students, who have not done well in the traditional structure of high school and standardized tests, but are creative and have other strengths and productive outlets. If students choose this route, they will need to provide the following:
·        -2 minute personal video describing how your talents and experiences have shaped you so far in your life
·        -A brief application form
·        -A signed statement of academic integrity
·        -One graded writing assignment and project or artistic piece that showcases your talents
·        -$55 application fee
·       - Application deadline is December 1st


I am a big fan of test-optional schools, but I may be even more of a fan of Goucher now. I think this is incredibly forward-thinking and removes the limitations of the traditional college application process. I have worked with countless of students throughout my career who were incredibly bright and creative; it just didn’t show on their official academic records, for a variety of reasons. Individuals are intelligent in different ways, and I hate to see young men and women being denied an opportunity of their top choice college because they were late bloomers in the classroom or didn’t perform well on a 3 ½ hour test. This avenue of applying to schools will not work at all colleges, but I am a fan of it and I hope more and more schools start doing this in the future.

-Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

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