What You Need To Know About Applying to Highly Selective Schools

We are very proud of the many Galin student's who have been accepted to some of the most prestigious and selective colleges and universities in the US. From competitive out-of-state public flagships to Ivy League institutions. So, in a world of increasingly selective college admissions, what makes these students stand out?

• Not JUST a 4.0 Near-perfect academics is merely a baseline qualifier for consideration at highly selective institutions. Students who gain admission showcased their interests in and out of the classroom, demonstrating that they are motivated, curious, and engaging people beyond their excellent test scores and GPAs. 
• Applied passion These students are clear on what they want to do and explore academically and in the world at large. They are not simply trying to build a profile for college admissions, they are genuinely interested in the activities and subjects they pursue. This is demonstrated by deep commitments to causes or interest areas, sustained involvement over time, and real-world impact. 
• Superlative recommendations Students admitted to highly selective schools are standouts in their schools and communities. Recommendations from teachers and counselors reflect this, providing examples of the student’s impact on others, high level of engagement, and compelling personal qualities. 
• Essays that shine The personal statement and school-specific supplemental essays are important, providing students the chance to share their voice, passions, and character. Successful essays are personal, engaging, and provide clear narratives of how the student’s experiences so far connect to their future at a particular school. 

In recent years, admission rates across the US have continued to drop at a steady rate. With more students sending more applications, colleges – including those previously well within reach for most strong students – are admitting from an increasing pool of highly qualified candidates, without meaningful increases to the size of freshman classes. This simple math makes admissions feel largely unpredictable, even at institutions where students with strong grades and accomplishments could in the past feel reasonably confident of their chances. 

While this phenomenon is true for most universities, it is especially impactful at the most competitive. Even the Ivy League schools, who routinely boast single digit acceptance rates, have recently seen an almost 2% drop, to an unbelievably low average acceptance rate of approximately 5%. 

In this landscape, how do our most successful students improve their admissions outcomes?

• Prepare early. Students aiming at the highest tier of admissions must begin academic and extracurricular preparation early in high school to create a profile that will stand out among similarly competitive applicants. Making thoughtful decisions about course selection, summer opportunities, extracurricular growth, and standardized testing strategy from early on is crucial to successful outcomes. 
• Build a balanced list. Add more accessible institutions to the college list. Along with comparing GPA and ACT averages, look at acceptance rates and include schools that accept a higher percentage of applicants but still offer great opportunities. Excellent academics, experiential learning, inspiring professors, and exciting research opportunities exist everywhere, not only at the most selective universities!
• Demonstrate interest and fit. Colleges value students who are truly interested and a strong fit for their community! Research deeply and write supplemental essays that are carefully tailored to each school’s unique offerings and character. Consider submitting a binding Early Decision application, which can boost students’ odds of admissions. 
• Seek guidance. Rapidly shifting trends in college admissions (including falling acceptance rates, selectivity by major, and testing requirements) can be confusing and difficult to navigate without expert knowledge. Strategic guidance on all aspects of an application can ensure that students put their best foot forward in their applications.

If your family wants the peace of mind and competitive boost provided by personalized application guidance, reach out to learn more about our college counseling program today.