Every year, without fail, I encounter parents who are guiding their teens’ college admissions process based on the rules that reigned when they applied to Harvard, Yale or Dartmouth, twenty or more years ago. These are bright, successful people who do not realize that the world of college admissions has changed since their generation applied to school. I do not want you to find yourself in the same situation so take a moment to learn and consider the new rules of college admissions and how they fit into your child’s enrichment and extracurricular curriculum.

Old Rule: Colleges are looking for well-rounded students.
New Rule: Colleges are looking to create a well-rounded class and are looking for students who are specialists in their area(s) of interest. The idea of the well-rounded student no longer applies as colleges would find themselves with countless applications that looked exactly alike. They are too many students applying to colleges today to take that approach. Colleges are now looking to create a well-rounded, mosaic of diverse students.

Old Rule: Straight A’s and perfect 1600 SATs will guarantee you a spot at an Ivy League or Ivy Plus school.
New Rule: Strong grades and competitive test scores are the requirements to be considered for a cherished seat in the class, but it takes much more to receive an invitation of acceptance to a highly selective school.

Old Rule: All colleges are the same, it doesn’t matter where you go.
New Rule: I was surprised to learn how many parents did not give much thought to their application and applied to a single school. There are 3000+ four-year colleges in the U.S. and there are several colleges that will be able to support the academic and social needs of most students. You will be spending four years in college so take your time to do a thorough college search which includes creating a well-balanced list of likely, target, and reach schools. Do not fall into the trap of selecting schools solely based on their popularity but take the time to identify what you want in your college experience.

Old Rule: Colleges will give students a pass on extracurriculars because of COVID-19.
New Rule: Colleges understand that students are living in unique and challenging circumstances, yet they still expect students to rise to the challenge and create learning experiences in a different way. They can take the form of teaching ballet via Zoom, creating a YouTube class based on your interest in higher mathematics or creating a remote workshop for fellow actors across the country who are no longer able to perform on their local stages. You will still be expected to participate in activities in a creative manner.

Get Support and Learn the Current College Admissions Requirements

The requirements for holistic college admissions evolve with each generation of students. There is a lot to learn and it can be confusing. Still not sure what to do? You don’t have to go it alone. Schedule a Complimentary Consulting Call and let us help you sort it out.