As high school students begin the daunting task of applying to colleges, many may wonder how much privacy they have in the process. With the advent of technology, it is common knowledge that colleges have access to students’ digital footprints, including information about which schools they have applied to. But how exactly do colleges receive this information and what does it mean for the students?

The Ins and Outs of College Applications

When a student fills out a college application, they typically have to provide their name and basic information, such as their high school. This information is then shared with the Common Application, a centralized platform used by over 900 colleges and universities to simplify the application process. This means that any school using the Common App will have access to this basic information of all applicants. Therefore, it is no surprise that colleges will know which schools a student has applied to through this shared data.

Additionally, many colleges use specific tracking software to monitor their applicants’ digital activity. This software, known as cookies, allows colleges to track applicants’ online behavior, including the websites they visit and the schools they research. This data is used to gauge a student’s interest in the school and can play a role in the admissions decision.

What This Means for Students

The fact that colleges have access to this information may seem unsettling for students, but it does not have to be. Admissions officers are not looking to penalize students for applying to other schools, and the knowledge of where else a student has applied to will not affect their chances of admission. In fact, knowing which schools a student has applied to can provide useful information for colleges in shaping a well-rounded and diverse incoming class.

However, it is essential for students to be aware of their online activity and think carefully about which schools they choose to apply to. Colleges can use this data to determine a student’s level of interest, so it is vital that students do their research and have a genuine interest in the schools they apply to. Additionally, students should be mindful of the content they post on social media, as this can also play a role in the admissions process.

How TUN AI Can Help

Fortunately, there are tools available to help students navigate the college application process and gain a better understanding of their digital footprint. One such tool is TUN AI, an ethical, AI-empowered platform aimed at providing personalized guidance and insights for students seeking higher education. TUN AI can help students visualize their digital footprint and understand how their online activity can impact their admissions chances. With its data-driven analysis, students can make informed decisions about their college application choices and online behavior.

Conclusion

In the digital age, it is inevitable that colleges will have access to a student’s application choices through shared data and tracking software. However, this knowledge should not discourage students from applying to their dream schools. It is crucial for students to take ownership of their online presence and use tools like TUN AI to gain a deeper understanding of their digital footprint and make informed decisions about their college applications. With proper research and preparation, students can increase their chances of getting into the college of their dreams.