How Glimpse Videos are Changing the College Admissions Landscape

When it comes to college admissions, students have traditionally relied on personal statements, recommendation letters, and a polished resume to showcase who they are. Recently, however, a new trend is emerging, one that offers a more dynamic and authentic way for applicants to introduce themselves: Glimpse videos.

Glimpse videos provide an opportunity for students to bring their applications to life by capturing a short, candid snapshot of who they are beyond their grades and test scores. These videos offer college admissions officers a more personalized look into each applicant’s personality, interests, and values, adding depth to an application in a way that essays alone often can’t. Here’s how Glimpse videos are reshaping the admissions process and why they might be worth considering.

For students looking to make a lasting impression, Glimpse videos may be the key to standing out in an increasingly competitive admissions process.

1. Provides Additional Context and the Student’s Voice

Glimpse videos are designed to give admissions officers a true sense of a student’s personality and passions. They can be recorded on a smartphone, which makes them accessible to most students, and they’re typically capped at around 90 seconds. This format encourages students to speak naturally and focus on what they really want the admissions committee to know. The video may capture a student talking about a unique hobby, showing off a special project, or explaining a cause that’s close to their heart. This creates a more multidimensional view of the applicant, showcasing traits that may not come through in written applications.

2. Authenticity Over Perfection: Be Yourself

One of the most attractive aspects of Glimpse videos is their emphasis on authenticity. Unlike a rehearsed interview or a meticulously crafted essay, these videos are meant to be informal and unscripted. This pushes students to be genuine and present themselves as they are. Admissions teams are looking for students who will bring real, authentic energy to campus life, and a candid video often communicates this better than a polished essay might. The format also levels the playing field, making it easier for students from all backgrounds to participate without requiring professional editing or recording tools.

3. Showcasing Unique Talents and Passions

In addition to providing insight into a student’s personality, Glimpse videos give students a chance to showcase specific talents or interests that set them apart. Whether it’s a snippet of a musical performance, a quick tour of an art project, or a demonstration of a coding skill, these videos allow students to present their unique talents in a format that feels personal and dynamic. For colleges looking for well-rounded students with diverse interests, Glimpse videos are a refreshing way to see applicants in their element.

4. Making Admissions More Personal

College admission readers review thousands of applications. After a while, the essays and resumes can blur together, making it difficult to get a sense of each student individually. Glimpse videos help to make the admissions process more personal, allowing readers to feel like they are “meeting” each student. This personal touch can help an applicant stand out and make a memorable impression on the admissions committee.

5. Practical Tips for Creating a Great Glimpse Video

Find them here on our blog.

6. Taking Advantage of the Counselor’s Button

After recording, students should use the counselor’s button to send the video to their counselor for review before it is permanently submitted. Your ICC advisor will provide constructive feedback.

Additionally, during Regular Decision, students have the option to “star” two schools, indicating them as top choices.

Although there’s a fee associated with Glimpse, many students may qualify for a fee waiver. Information on how to get a fee waiver can be found on this page.

7. Looking Forward: The Likely Future of College Admissions

While not all colleges accept or encourage Glimpse videos at this time, they are becoming increasingly popular in the college admissions world. Schools are constantly looking for new ways to evaluate students more holistically, and these videos offer a unique solution that feels aligned with today’s social media-savvy generation. As the college admissions process continues to evolve, we may see more schools adopting Glimpse videos as a way to connect with applicants on a more personal level.

Colleges that allow for video submissions this application cycle include Vanderbilt, UChicago, Wake Forest, Duke, Brown, and Washington University in St. Louis. Check their website for more information.

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE COUNSELORS

While the college admissions process may seem daunting, you don’t have to go through it alone. The expert team at International College Counselors includes former college admission officers, high school directors and counselors, and writing professionals with a combined 250+ years of experience helping students and families successfully navigate the college application journey. For personalized guidance, contact International College Counselors at 954-414-9986 or email us.