If you’re the parent of a high schooler, the admissions process might already feel daunting. The rules keep shifting, and applying to college now looks nothing like it did when you were a senior.

Well, this year, there's yet a new wrinkle colleges will start assessing: civility.

Every year, there are high-achieving students who have done everything “right”: earned stellar grades, scored well on standardized tests, and stayed out of trouble. And yet, when application season rolls around, many are shocked when those dream schools — the ones with the prestigious names and single-digit admit rates — don’t say “Yes.”

It’s not because these students aren’t smart or capable. Quite the opposite.

The college admissions landscape has changed more in the past five years than in the previous decade. Yet, many families still operate under outdated assumptions, leading to unrealistic expectations about where their student will be admitted and what it takes to get there.

Each admissions cycle brings new challenges, shifting priorities, and policy changes that impact students’ college applications. We closely follow these evolving trends to give families an insider view of what’s happening across U.S. colleges and universities.

Receiving an Early Decision acceptance is a huge milestone—congrats! But before you kick back and celebrate, there are a few critical steps to wrap up your college application journey. From updating your school’s admissions office to withdrawing applications from other colleges, we guide you through it all.

The 2024-25 FAFSA introduces significant updates that families should be aware of, including the shift from the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the Student Aid Index (SAI). We’ve broken down the changes into manageable sections to help you prepare.

The growing emphasis on character in college admissions reflects a broader shift toward holistic applicant evaluation. By understanding what colleges value and thoughtfully presenting their unique traits, students can enhance their applications and contribute meaningfully to their future college communities.

Duke University's recent adjustments stand out as a beacon for how institutions are reimagining the process. The changes, particularly in the review of essays and the role of standardized testing, reflect a nuanced approach to evaluating potential students.

Certainly, academic summer enrichment programs offer valuable experiences, but they can be quite costly. Fortunately, there are numerous affordable or even free alternatives for high school students to explore their interests and gain experience during the summer months.

Aspiring engineers have a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity, skills, and passion for engineering through a Maker Portfolio. Learn more about what goes into the process, the type of projects you can make, and why it can be such an impactful asset in your application.