Applying to college is exciting, and many of us parents have fond memories of our experiences. Many things have changed since our days, including increased competition. Here are some strategies to help students get accepted to schools that they will love and where they will thrive.

1. Do the Research

Each student is unique regarding the factors that make an ideal college experience. Students can narrow down their choices based on their goals, comfort level, and cost.

Choosing the right institution is essential for a fulfilling educational journey.

• Major – If you already know your career goal, seek colleges that have the appropriate program. Note that individual programs within a college, such as engineering and business, may have lower admission rates than the college as a whole. If you are undecided, you may want to look into liberal arts colleges.

• Public or Private – Many students limit their searches to state schools because of cost considerations. However, numerous private schools offer enough merit and financial aid that make them more affordable. Many college websites have calculators to estimate the tuition you would pay. Most students pay less than the sticker price. If you want to apply to a public institution in a different state, research the percent of out-of-state students who are accepted at that college. These percentages vary widely.

• Vibe – Many students have an idea that they would fit in better at a large, medium, or small school, or a city, rural, or suburban school. Visits are crucial to really feel the vibe. Ideally, visit institutions while school is in session, so you can meet other students, attend classes, and explore extracurricular activities.

• School List – Since acceptance rates have been decreasing over the years, many students who apply to competitive colleges now apply to more schools than previous students. Some students are surprised to find out that a school they expected to be accepted from has rejected them, but a more competitive school has accepted them. Since many more students are qualified than slots are available, you just never know. A school list for students who want to go to competitive colleges should include reaches, on-levels, and safeties. Students who wish to attend less competitive colleges can have shorter lists.

2. Apply Early Decision and Early Action

More colleges than ever have been filling half their slots or more with early decision applicants. For students who have a favorite school, applying early decision improves their chances of acceptance. While early decision is binding, early action is not. Students can apply early action to as many schools as they want, but this does not typically improve acceptance rates as much as early decision.

3. Prepare for and Take the SAT or ACT

During the pandemic, all American institutions made these tests optional. According to a tally by FairTest, the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, “More than 80% of U.S. four-year institutions will not require applicants for fall 2025 admissions to submit ACT/SAT scores.” However, students who do well on the SAT or ACT will generally have a better chance of acceptance. Because more students than ever have high GPA’s, test scores are a great way for colleges to evaluate students independent of what high school they attended, how biased their grading may have been, and the academic rigor of their high schools.

The SAT and ACT have ample room for improvement for students who take them multiple times, which also allows for super-scoring. To improve scores, students can work independently online, sign up for group classes, or work with tutors who are experts and can tailor the test prep program for each student’s needs.

4. Focus on What Colleges are Looking for

What Schools Value Most

These are the factors that influence college admissions:

• Rigorous course load (honors, AP, IB classes)
• GPA
• SAT or ACT Scores
• Great letters of recommendation (get to know your teachers and counselor)
• Deep involvement in at least one extracurricular activity
• Volunteer work
• Involvement in an activity that relates to desired major
• Demonstrated interest in the college – signing up for their mailing list, opening emails, engaging, visiting the college, or attending an information session at high school
• What sets the student apart

5. Nail those Essays

While the common app has a required essay, many college applications add their own essays. These essays could be the key that sets a student apart. It is important for students to tell compelling stories, offer unique perspectives, and show their voices. Summer is a great time to get started on essays. A tutor can help brainstorm ideas, find a voice, organize the essay, and make it flow and shine.

Conclusion

Applying to college requires a great deal of effort but is an exciting transition to a new chapter of young adulthood. Students can do all these steps, but in the end, they may need to also follow their hunches to get the best fit for them.

Finding the right college can be a transformative experience for students.

By Cheryl Gedzelman, President

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