Holistic Review for a Diverse Student Population

Holistic review in admissions is a popular method to enhance diversity within graduate education programs by considering various aspects of applicants in the admissions process beyond traditional metrics. However, given the recent SCOTUS ruling barring the use of race-based admissions metrics to influence admissions decisions in higher education, the use of holistic review in the admissions process has also come under increased scrutiny. In this session, the presenters will describe how a graduate program created strategies to address the ban on the use of race in admissions. This included a redefinition of the program’s commitment to diversity, the creation of a holistic admissions review rubric, and faculty review processes that reflected the program’s values and commitment to diversity. The presenters will also share the outcomes of the use of a holistic review process on the diversity of cohorts that have been admitted to the program.