How We Evaluate Applications
Understanding our holistic review process for the IBAO cohorts program
Our Evaluation Philosophy
At IBAO, we believe in fostering a community of young innovators who are passionate about making astronomy accessible to everyone. Our cohort program is designed for high school students who want to contribute to building the International Blind Astronomy Olympiad through their unique skills and perspectives.
Our selection committee employs a holistic review process that considers multiple dimensions of each applicant's passion, background, and potential. We're looking for interdisciplinary talent—whether you code, write, design, or simply have great ideas about accessibility and community building, there's a place for you in our cohorts.
Winter 2024 Cohort Statistics
| Metric | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Number of Applicants | 342 |
| Accepted | 50 |
| Waitlist | 15 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~14% |
| Median SAT Score | 1290-1460 |
| Median ACT Score | 28-32 |
| Median PSAT Score | 1080-1210 |
Our Review Process
Initial Screening
Each application is reviewed by at least two evaluators who assess basic eligibility and completeness. We ensure all required materials are present and that the application meets our fundamental requirements.
Comprehensive Review
Applications that pass initial screening receive a detailed evaluation from multiple committee members who assess each component: personal statement, essays, leadership experience, extracurricular activities, and academic records.
Committee Discussion
The most promising applications are discussed by the full selection committee, where different perspectives ensure fair consideration of each candidate's unique strengths and potential contributions to the IBAO community.
Final Selection
The committee makes final selections based on individual merit and the composition of a diverse, balanced cohort that will bring complementary skills and perspectives to the program. Selected applicants receive offers, while others may be placed on a waitlist.
Our Evaluation Framework
Curiosity
We value individuals who demonstrate a genuine appetite for learning and exploration. Curious minds are always asking questions, seeking to understand, and exploring beyond the boundaries of their current knowledge.
What we look for:
- Evidence of self-directed learning and exploration
- Thoughtful questions that demonstrate depth of thinking
- Interest in a broad range of subjects and ideas
- Willingness to challenge assumptions and explore new perspectives
Our Evaluation Process
Multiple Perspectives
Every application is reviewed by multiple team members with diverse backgrounds and expertise. This helps ensure we consider each applicant from different angles and minimize unconscious bias.
Holistic Review
We consider all aspects of your application together, not in isolation. Your experiences, creative challenge response, and interview all contribute to our understanding of you as a whole person.
Potential Over Polish
We value authenticity and potential more than perfectly polished applications. We're looking for diamonds in the rough – individuals with the capacity and drive to grow and contribute meaningfully.
Cohort Composition
We consider how each applicant might contribute to and benefit from the overall cohort. We aim to build diverse teams with complementary strengths, perspectives, and experiences.
Equal Opportunity
The IBAO Cohort is committed to equal opportunity. We evaluate all applicants based on their potential to contribute to and benefit from our program, regardless of background, identity, or circumstances. We actively seek to build cohorts that reflect diverse perspectives, experiences, and identities.