Admissions officers were 16.4% less likely to admit a student who hadn’t taken calculus compared to one who had, according to a study of 292 admissions officers. This bias exists despite many engineering programs not requiring calculus as a formal admissions requirement. The study, led by BK Byun, found that even students who took the highest-level math and science courses available at their school and scored above their school’s average on the SAT faced this disadvantage.

What this means for applicants

This means that students from high schools without calculus offerings may face additional challenges in gaining admission to engineering programs. Applicants should consider taking alternative advanced math courses if calculus is not available, and ensure their overall application highlights their achievements and potential in STEM fields. Additionally, students should prepare to discuss any limitations in their high school coursework during interviews or essays, emphasizing their commitment and capabilities in STEM subjects.

Related on megaprep.net: college admissions planning.

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