BA Economics

How US Universities Assess Applicants

US universities use a holistic admissions review. Beyond grades and standardized test scores, they weigh the strength of your overall profile to understand who you are as a student and a person.

• Profile Assessment: Business-related applicants are assessed on academic performance, quantitative preparation, communication, initiative and evidence of engagement with organisations or economic issues. Mathematics is particularly important for Finance, Economics, Business Analytics and other quantitative programs. Entrepreneurship, business competitions, investment or economics clubs, internships, case studies, market research and community projects may strengthen the profile.
• Advanced Placement(AP) Guidance: AP availability depends on the student's school. Relevant APs can strengthen an application and may earn university credit, but are not compulsory unless the university or programme explicitly requires them.
  • AP Calculus AB/BC
  • AP Statistics
  • AP Microeconomics
  • AP Macroeconomics
  • AP Computer Science Principles
• Extracurricular activities: Estimated contribution: 20–30%. Duke values sustained engagement, collaboration, leadership, service and intellectual energy. Research, social-impact initiatives, athletics, arts, entrepreneurship and community work can all strengthen an application when they show meaningful commitment and contribution.
• Essays & recommendations: Personal essays and teacher/counselor recommendations give context to your achievements and help demonstrate fit with the program.