<p>Does anyone hear want to speak to the ramifications of declaring a major on the common app? Will an adcom use this in any way? Specifically, if I were planning on a major that is pretty popular at Yale, would that be used against me since they are looking for diversity and all? On the other hand, does not declaring a major work against you? Could they view you as someone who hasn't planned ahead very well or has no real academic passions? Help!</p>
<p>I don't think it matters how popular a particular major is. However, it probably looks good if the rest of your record shows dedications toward your proposed field of study (for instance a prospective biology major who has research experience in biology, was involved in science competitions, etc, looks better than one who did not).
As for putting down undeclared, I believe that's what I did and it seemed to work fine for me.</p>
<p>most colleges scrutinize Engineering apps and look for better math testing. Use the system.</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice.</p>
<p>I hope for your sake you won't be an English major ("here" not "hear"). I jest, I jest :). But in all seriousness, I believe it is important to demonstrate your academic interests and goals. I recall that an admissions officer once told me that something like 97~98% of all accepted applicants to Yale wrote down an area of interest. </p>
<p>Yes, there are exceptions. My friend is currently attending Stanford, and she did not indicate her prospective major.</p>
<p>And by the way, I don't really see how you can "use the system" through your choice of major...</p>
<p>Best bet - just be honest and put down what you're leaning towards. If you have no clue, write undecided or list a few possibilities. Remember it's what your essays and recommendations say about you that's much more important.</p>