Fit to Major—What Colleges Really Look For

When your student applies to college, one of the biggest questions is: Do they need to know their major already?

The answer: sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Why Does This Matter for Parents?

• Applying to a direct-entry major without the right preparation can hurt admission chances.

• Applying to an exploratory program can be a great choice for students who are still deciding, as long as their application demonstrates curiosity and readiness for college-level work.

• Understanding which schools on your student’s list care about “fit to major” helps shape testing, course selection, and activities long before senior year.

The Bottom Line

Your student doesn’t need a 10-year plan. But they do need an application strategy that matches their college list. Some schools will want a clear story of how they’re prepared for a specific major. Others will value their openness to explore.

At Annapolis College Consulting and The College Sharks, we guide families through these distinctions—so students apply with confidence, clarity, and a stronger chance of admission.

Do I Really Need to Know My Major Already?

What students need to know.

Quick answer: not always.

Some colleges want you to choose a major up front and show that you’re ready for it. Others are totally fine with you applying as Undecided or through an Exploratory Program.

Where Fit to Major Matters Most

If you’re applying to:

• Engineering or Computer Science → Colleges expect to see advanced math and science.

• Business → They want calculus, economics, or business-related activities.

• Nursing or Health Sciences → Strong science prep and ideally some hands-on exposure.

• Performing Arts or Design → A portfolio, audition, or long-term commitment.

Here, admissions officers want proof that you’re prepared.

Where It Matters Less

At many liberal arts colleges and mid-sized universities, you don’t declare a major until sophomore year. You’ll get to take classes in different subjects, meet with advisors, and find out what fits best.

Why Being Undecided Can Be Smart

Exploratory or Undecided programs aren’t a “cop out.” In fact, they:

• Give you more time to explore different fields.

• Connect you with advisors who help guide your choices.

• Prevent you from getting stuck in a major you don’t enjoy.

What Colleges Want to See Either Way

• Academics: Rigor in your classes, even if they’re not tied to a single field.

• Activities: Depth of involvement in things you actually care about.

• Essays/Resume: A story about your curiosity, growth, and how you’ll use college to keep exploring.

The Sharks’ Advice 🦈

You don’t need to have it all figured out—but you do need to show colleges that you’re thoughtful, motivated, and ready to take advantage of what they offer.

If you know your major? Great—lean into it.
If you’re still exploring? That’s also great—just be intentional about showing your curiosity and readiness.

Fit to Major: 3 Questions to Ask Before You Apply

Do I need to know my major right now?
Not always! Some colleges admit you directly into a program (engineering, business, nursing, etc.), while others let you explore first.

Does my application match my intended major?
If you’re applying to a direct-entry program, colleges want to see:
✅ Academics that match the major (ex: calculus for business, physics for engineering)
✅ Activities that show exploration and initiative
✅ Essays/resume that tell a clear story

What if I’m undecided?
That’s okay! Exploratory/Undecided programs:
✨ Give you time to test different fields
✨ Provide specialized advising
✨ Show colleges you’re curious and intentional—even if you don’t have it all figured out

Frequently Asked Questions About “Fit to Major”

Do you need to know your major when applying to college?
Not always. Some colleges (especially direct-entry programs like engineering, business, or nursing) require you to apply into a specific major and show you’re prepared. Others admit students to the university as a whole, where you can decide later.

What happens if you apply undecided to college?
Applying undecided can be a smart choice! Many colleges offer exploratory or undeclared programs that let you try different classes, work with advisors, and find the right fit without the pressure of choosing too soon.

Which colleges let you apply undecided?
Most liberal arts colleges, mid-sized universities, and schools with exploratory programs allow undecided applications. Larger public universities often require you to apply into a major if you’re aiming for competitive programs like engineering, nursing, or business.

What are the benefits of applying to college undecided?
Exploratory or undecided students get flexibility. You can take courses across multiple disciplines, get advising support, and avoid being “locked in” to a program you might later regret. It shows colleges you’re curious and intentional about exploring.

How do you show “fit to major” on a college application?
If you are applying to a specific major, focus on three things:

• Academics (classes and grades that match the field)

• Activities (clubs, jobs, or projects tied to the subject)

• Essays/Resume (a clear story of why this major excites you)

Does your intended major affect admissions chances?
Yes, at some schools. Selective or oversubscribed programs (computer science, nursing, engineering, business) often admit fewer students and require stronger evidence of preparation. At other schools, your intended major has little impact on admission decisions.

The Sharks’ Tip: Whether you’re “all in” on a major or ready to explore, make sure your application tells the story of who you are and how you’ll thrive in college.

Want to know which colleges on your list care about “fit to major” (and which don’t)? That’s where we come in. Annapolis College Consulting + The College Sharks = your application strategy team. [email protected]