<p>So I've been looking through old threads to find out information regarding supplementary material. I came across one thread (2004 or 2005) and it said that the admissions officers only spend 5 minutes total on supp material. Does this time limit still apply this year or are there new changes to how supp material is being viewed?</p>
<p>Here is what I have posted about supplemental materials before:</p>
<p>"Supplemental materials are welcome additions to the Johns Hopkins application, whether they be CDs, slides, portfolios, art work, etc. The admissions counselor will review these materials, but are unable to spend much time with supplemental materials. Our time is spent focusing on the important parts of your application: transcript, essays, recommendations, resume. </p>
<p>As far as what role they plan, I must say they play a minor role. Usually they can add context to the resume of the applicant's interests and/or passions -- and that can't hurt. They often will elaborate on something important in the applicant's life, and once again that is important for an Admissions counselor to know. But in the end, it still is your academic performance, your essays, your recommendations, etc. that matter most.</p>
<p>Supplemental materials will neither make nor break your application." </p>
<p>As far as the "5 minute limit," I know some of my colleagues say that but it is not official rule. But do not expect that we will spend much time on supplemental materials. And no, we have not changed the way we review supplemental materials.</p>