Updated Information on All Things College Admissions

Applying to college is one of the most stressful experiences for high school students today. Research shows that 76% of students view the process as a life-defining moment, and 73% worry that even a small mistake could negatively impact their chances of admission. With increasing academic expectations, social comparison, and the overwhelming amount of advice available, it’s no surprise that the admissions process can lead to heightened anxiety, depression, and even disordered eating patterns. While some level of stress is expected, it’s critical to recognize when it becomes a serious concern—and to take action to protect teen mental health.

For high school seniors, the weeks leading up to college decisions can be some of the most stressful of their lives. After months—sometimes years—of planning, testing, essay writing, and extracurricular commitments, students find themselves in a nerve-wracking waiting game. The increasingly low acceptance rates at the most competitive colleges only heighten this anxiety, making the process feel more like a lottery than a reflection of a student’s effort or potential. With mental health concerns on the rise among teens, it’s crucial to recognize the impact of this admissions pressure and explore ways to support students during this critical time.

The college admissions process can often feel like a race to accumulate achievements, but the most compelling applications go beyond a list of activities. Colleges seek students who demonstrate depth, commitment, and a clear sense of purpose.  This case study follows a Class of 2025 student we worked with —a methodical thinker with a strong academic foundation, deep leadership in marching band and DECA, and a focused interest in business. Rather than stretching themselves thin across numerous activities, this student dedicated their time to a few key commitments, making a lasting impact through leadership and mentorship. By staying true to their interests, challenging themselves academically, and reflecting deeply on their experiences, they built an application that stood out to admissions officers at a highly competitive liberal arts college with a strong business program.

The college application process often feels like a checklist—grades, test scores, extracurriculars—but the most compelling applications go beyond the résumé. This case study follows a Class of 2025 student we worked with who entered the process with strong credentials but no clear academic direction. Through self-reflection and intentional choices, they shaped an application that told a cohesive, authentic story—ultimately leading to early admission at an Ivy League university.

Early admissions results from this year reinforced an important message: students who built a balanced, well-researched college list had the best outcomes. While many students felt pressure to focus only on highly selective schools, those who applied to a thoughtful mix of reach, possible, and match schools gave themselves the best chance of success—and the most exciting options in the spring.  A well-crafted college list isn’t just about applying to prestigious schools—it’s about finding the right environment where a student can grow, thrive, and be happy. This year, students who took the time to explore and plan ahead saw the strongest results. Those who applied only to highly competitive colleges often found themselves with more stress and fewer options than they had hoped for.

So many of the students we were lucky enough to work with this year achieved their dream of being admitted to The University of Texas at Austin—and for most of them, that journey started well before junior year. The students who stood out in this competitive admissions cycle were the ones who began preparing as early as 9th and 10th grade. With over 90,000 applicants vying for limited spots, UT Austin’s holistic review process looks beyond grades and test scores. Admissions officers want to see a four-year story—one that demonstrates academic growth, meaningful involvement, and a clear fit for a student’s first-choice major. For the students we worked with, starting early meant they had the time to build strong academic records, explore major-related activities, and craft applications that truly reflected their strengths and passions.

So many of the students we were lucky enough to work with this year achieved their dream of being admitted to The University of Texas at Austin. With over 90,000 applicants and a competitive holistic review process, UT evaluates students through the lens of their first-choice major—meaning it’s not just about strong grades and test scores, but about how well a student’s application aligns with their intended field of study.  For many of the students we worked with, a clear fit-to-major strategy made all the difference. They carefully selected coursework, participated in major-related extracurriculars, and used their essays and expanded resumes to tell a compelling story about their academic and career aspirations. Here’s how they did it—and what future applicants can learn from their approach.

The students we were lucky enough to work with this year poured their hearts into the college application process, and for so many of them, that dedication paid off with the ultimate reward—an offer of admission to The University of Texas at Austin. As one of the most competitive public universities in the country, UT evaluates applicants on a holistic scale, but two factors consistently made a difference: academic rigor and strong test scores. Students who challenged themselves with advanced coursework and prepared strategically for standardized testing demonstrated that they were ready for UT’s academic demands, particularly in competitive majors like Business, Engineering, and Computer Science. This year, UT Austin required SAT or ACT scores, making test performance a key part of the admissions process. At the same time, students who aligned their course selection with their first-choice major showed admissions officers that they were not only academically prepared but also deeply invested in their field of study. Through thoughtful course planning, test preparation, and hard work, many of the students we worked with strengthened their applications and earned a place at UT Austin. Here’s a closer look at how they did it—and what future applicants can learn from their approach.

Is your bright, capable teen struggling to reach their potential in school? You may notice their backpack overflowing with crumpled papers, completed assignments that never make it to the teacher's desk, or the last-minute panic when they realize a major project is due tomorrow. These aren't likely signs of laziness or lack of intelligence—they could indicate executive function challenges.

Academic challenges are inevitable for all students, but for neurodivergent learners, these obstacles can feel particularly daunting, especially as the pace picks up in the spring semester. Educational experts recognize that these moments of struggle are actually valuable opportunities for growth. James Nottingham's concept of " The Learning Pit ,” highlighted in, describes how students must sometimes journey through confusion before emerging with deeper understanding. When students climb out of this pit themselves, they develop the resilience essential for long-term academic - and life - success. The key is providing them with the right tools to navigate this journey independently.

This year’s early admissions cycle reinforced a clear message: students who saw the best outcomes were strategic, demonstrated initiative, and told compelling personal stories. The students we were lucky enough to work with weren’t just strong academically—they had a well-researched college list, meaningful extracurricular experiences, and essays that reflected their authentic selves.  As competition remains intense, students applying next year should focus on rigorous academics, purposeful extracurriculars, and a thoughtful application strategy. By approaching the process with clarity and intentionality, they can maximize their chances of being overjoyed with their results—just like so many of the students we had the privilege of working with this year.

Starting the path to medical school begins in high school. Students interested in becoming doctors should focus on excelling in science and math classes, while also developing strong writing and communication skills. Gaining hands-on experience by volunteering in healthcare settings, participating in research, and serving the community will help build a solid foundation for a future in medicine. Taking on leadership roles in clubs or sports helps develop the teamwork and decision-making skills that are crucial for medical school.

Visiting the learning support center should be a priority stop on any college tour, especially for students with learning differences. While services vary widely depending on the school, most offer academic assistance and disability accommodations to help students reach their potential.

For many neurodiverse students, the idea of college can feel abstract. Guidebooks and websites provide useful information, but they often lack the real-world feel needed to make an informed decision. That’s why we encourage all families to visit at least one college—and for neurodiverse students, we strongly recommend visiting at least three. Experiencing different campus environments firsthand can help your student determine what will work best for them academically, socially, and emotionally. We encourage all our families to visit at least 1 college (preferably more) during their decision-making journey. But for neurodiverse students, we recommend visiting at least 3 schools.

Early admissions results from the 2024-25 cycle reinforce a crucial reality—colleges are moving away from rewarding long lists of superficial extracurriculars. Highly selective institutions, including public universities like the University of Michigan and UCLA, as well as private colleges like Stanford and MIT, are prioritizing applicants who show depth, initiative, and impact over those who simply check boxes. As competition intensifies for admission to top programs in computer science, engineering, business, and the sciences, students who spread themselves too thin across numerous activities are being left behind. Instead, colleges seek students whose extracurriculars tell a compelling, cohesive story of intellectual engagement and long-term commitment.

Sports fans often flock to the powerhouse Southeastern Conference (SEC) colleges like Alabama and Georgia seeking dynamic athletic traditions and school spirit. However, you don’t have to attend an SEC juggernaut to find passionate fan bases and electrifying sports environments

Early admissions results from this year confirm what many families already suspected—highly selective majors are becoming even more competitive. Computer science, engineering, business, and nursing continue to be among the most selective fields, with acceptance rates often lower than those of the overall university. Meanwhile, sciences like biology and chemistry remain difficult to enter, particularly at research-focused institutions. Public universities such as the University of Michigan, Georgia Tech, and the University of Texas at Austin are seeing record-low acceptance rates for these high-demand programs, while elite private colleges like Stanford, MIT, and Wharton at the University of Pennsylvania are admitting only a small percentage of applicants to their top programs. Colleges are not just looking for students with strong grades and test scores; they want to see applicants who have already demonstrated a deep commitment to their intended major. Through extracurricular activities, students must show that they are not only interested in a field but have actively engaged with it in meaningful ways.

Choosing the right college is a crucial step toward a successful career in construction management or science. The best programs combine hands-on experience, industry connections, and study-abroad opportunities, giving you the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic field. Here are ten top schools that stand out for their strong construction programs and real-world learning experiences.

This year’s admissions results highlight an increasing challenge for students applying to public universities from out of state. With strict in-state quotas, rising application numbers, and financial incentives shaping admissions policies, acceptance rates for non-residents continue to shrink. Schools like UNC Chapel Hill and the University of Michigan are admitting fewer than 15% of out-of-state applicants, even among high-achieving students with strong academic credentials. Families must take a strategic approach—leveraging in-state advantages where possible or targeting public universities that offer stronger out-of-state opportunities.

College football powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, and Clemson aren’t just known for their athletic success—they’ve also become much harder to get into. Over the past five years, these schools have seen big changes in their admissions process, making them more competitive than ever. Let’s take a look at what’s behind the shift and what it means for students applying.

Nursing is one of the most in-demand and rewarding career paths, but finding the right college program can feel overwhelming. From competitive BSN programs to flexible ADN pathways, the options vary widely. Our latest guide breaks down top nursing programs, admissions requirements, and key factors to consider when choosing a school. Whether you're aiming for a reach school or looking for the best fit, we've got you covered. Explore the full guide and take the next step toward your nursing career.

The college admissions landscape often feels like it's built for students with sky-high GPAs and perfect test scores, but the truth is, there are fantastic schools out there for students with a "C" average. These institutions provide strong academics, robust student support, and opportunities for career preparation while offering a welcoming environment for students who may not have a 4.0 GPA.  Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite hidden gem universities—both public and private—that offer impressive academic programs, strong student resources, and an environment where students can truly thrive.

The summer before 9th grade is the perfect time for students to start exploring their interests and taking their extracurricular pursuits to the next level. By thoughtfully planning summer activities that balance exploration, productivity, and downtime, you can help your child transition confidently into high school. Encourage them to try new things, take on challenges, and enjoy the adventure of personal growth. With the right mix of support and independence, your teen will be ready to start 9th grade with excitement and confidence.

As your 8th grader begins thinking about their transition to 9th grade, they’re likely feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. The jump from middle school to high school brings new opportunities and responsibilities, and the classes they choose now will set the tone for their high school experience. Sitting down to discuss their options can help ease their nerves and give them the confidence to make thoughtful decisions. Balancing core academic subjects, electives that spark curiosity, and a manageable workload is key to creating a schedule that supports both growth and well-being. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind as you guide your teen through this process and help them build a foundation for success in high school.

College admissions are competitive, and many factors can influence your student’s chances of getting accepted. One factor that often goes unnoticed is gender. Recent data for the Class of 2028 shows that gender disparities exist at some of the nation’s top colleges, with acceptance rates sometimes varying widely between men and women. As a parent, understanding these trends can help you better guide your student through the college application process.

When it comes to the highly competitive world of college admissions, every detail of a student’s high school experience matters—especially their academic choices. One of the biggest mistakes students make is skipping or dropping a core subject too early in high school. While it might seem harmless to forgo a fourth year of foreign language or to replace senior-year science with a free period, these decisions can send the wrong message to admissions officers and hurt your teen’s chances of getting into their dream college.  Here’s why taking all five core subjects—English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language—for all four years of high school is essential and how skipping one can cost your teen their spot at a selective institution.

Securing the right academic assistance for a learning-different student means understanding a spectrum of offerings. From light support to full immersion support, multiple tiers of college support exist (though prices increase as the support gets more intense). Matching the right amount of support with your teen's current needs will help create a smoother transition to college, resulting in early "wins" for your student that build confidence and momentum.

While visiting state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, and lab spaces certainly provides valuable insights during college visit admission tours, the true pulse of a campus lies in its culture outside the classroom. Getting a feel for the overall energy and student life environment on tour is crucial for assessing fit.

Many teens are excited about campus tours which make them easy to plan and complete. Some students are more tricky to travel with. Anxiety and fear about the future can lead to irritability and lack of engagement. Navigating campus tours with a grumpy teenager can be frustrating, but there are some strategies to make the experience more positive.