Can We Assess Suitability at Admission? A Review of MSW Application Procedures

Abstract

The gatekeeping role in social work education begins with the admissions review process. This article reports on findings from a 1995-96 national survey of MSW programs that focused on the nonacademic admissions criteria and procedures they use to assess applicants. Over 80% of the respondents identified nonacademic indicators used to assess the suitability of applicants; 100% reported using some form of screening procedure (e.g., reference letters, personal interviews); and 66% provided samples of admissions review materials. The authors assess the commonalities found among sample materials, describe challenges in using nonacademic admission criteria, and present a model for defining and assessing student suitability throughout the professional education process.