Assessing the relevance of academic competencies in college admission tests from a higher-order thinking perspective: A systematic review

•A broad range of relevant competencies have been identified in 42 articles.•SRL such as critical thinking or time/study management are highlighted.•Other soft skills such as conscientiousness and self-efficacy stand out.•Results motivate comprehensive assessment of incoming freshmen.•HOTS should be promoted from university admission to improve academic success.