Inequality Beyond Standardized Tests: Trends in Extracurricular Activity Reporting in College Applications Across Race and Class
We analyzed extracurricular activity descriptions in nearly 6 million college applications. White, Asian American, high-SES, and private school students reported more activities, more activities with top-level leadership roles, and more activities with honors/awards. Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and low-income students reported top leadership positions at a similar rate as other students, although the absolute number was lower. Findings do not support a return to required standardized testing, nor do they necessarily support ending consideration of activities in admissions. We discuss implications for holistic review.