The Reason Behind Low Acceptance Rates

Top-tier colleges may get record applications, but why are college acceptance rates so low? The increasing difficulty of gaining admission into the most selective universities is a trend that continues to challenge college-bound students.

If you’re planning to apply to one of these highly selective colleges in the next year or two, it’s important to understand the reasons behind these low acceptance rates and remember that there are hundreds of other great colleges out there. The national admissions rate is about 65%, but this number drastically drops when you look at elite institutions.

The Intimidating Low Acceptance Rates

Harvard College, for example, has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the country. For every 100 students that applied to America’s most prestigious school, 94 were rejected. This year, Harvard had the country’s lowest acceptance rate reported so far—just 5.9%, offering admission to only 2,032 students out of the 34,302 who applied.

Last year, the rate was 6.2%. Despite the tough odds, Harvard ramped up financial aid, offering help to 60% of the students admitted, making the average cost for families around $12,000 per year for tuition, room, board, and fees.

Princeton University also saw a record low acceptance rate at 7.86%, down from 8.5% the previous year. With 26,664 applications, Princeton offered admission to just 2,095 students. Similarly, Yale University, which had a record-high applicant pool of 28,975, admitted only 1,975 students, resulting in a 6.8% acceptance rate, down from 7.4% last year.

Other prestigious institutions, like Cornell University and Johns Hopkins University, reported lower acceptance rates as well. Cornell’s rate dropped to 16.2% from 18%, while Johns Hopkins admitted only 17.7% of applicants, down from 18.3%.

Why Are College Acceptance Rates So Low?

One of the primary reasons why college acceptance rates are so low at top-tier institutions is the sheer volume of applications. More students are applying to more colleges, often through the Common Application, which makes it easier to apply to multiple schools with just a few clicks. However, this convenience has led to a surge in applications, including many from students who are not necessarily a good fit for the schools they’re applying to.

Another factor contributing to low acceptance rates is that many applicants disqualify themselves before they even submit their applications. Here are some common ways students inadvertently lower their chances of being accepted:

  1. Not Meeting Minimum Criteria: Some students apply without meeting the required tests, such as SAT Subject Tests, or without completing necessary coursework. These applications are often automatically disqualified.
  2. Poorly Written Essays: Submitting a poorly written essay or one that lacks authenticity can severely damage an applicant’s chances. Admissions officers are looking for essays that reflect the student’s true voice and potential.
  3. Weak Recommendations: Asking a recommender who doesn’t know the student well or who doesn’t write compellingly can be detrimental to the application.
  4. Lack of Demonstrated Interest: Not visiting the campus, contacting the college, or showing any interest can hurt a student’s chances, especially at schools where “demonstrated interest” is considered.
  5. Inadequate Course Load: Dropping essential courses in the senior year can disqualify a student from meeting the admissions requirements.

The Impact of Low Acceptance Rates

The result of these factors is that a significant number of applicants are easily denied, leading to an increasingly competitive environment. This heightened competition not only affects the students applying but also skews the perceived selectivity of these institutions. When acceptance rates plummet, it can create an aura of exclusivity that may discourage some students from even applying.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that while top-tier schools are becoming more selective, there are many other excellent colleges with higher acceptance rates that provide quality education and opportunities. College-bound students should focus on finding the right fit for their academic, social, and financial needs, rather than solely aiming for the schools with the lowest acceptance rates.

Conclusion

So, why are college acceptance rates so low? The combination of increasing application numbers, the ease of submitting applications, and the disqualification of non-competitive applicants all contribute to this trend. While it can be daunting, students should not be discouraged. Instead, they should focus on strengthening their applications, meeting all requirements, and exploring a range of colleges that can offer them a fulfilling college experience.

Common Myths about College Admissions

Top 5 myths about College Admissions

A lot has changed over the years in college admissions. Given the rapid pace of change and the increase in the complexity of the process, there are some lingering college myths I want to dispel. I speak with parents and students every day (except on Sundays usually) and these top 5 myths about college admissions are taken from the most common misconceptions:

Brand name

The brand name of a college says nothing about your chances of admissions. So what if everyone’s heard of XXXX college? It doesn’t mean that you should apply or not. On the flip side, if no one in your school has heard of such a college, it doesn’t mean that it’s NOT a great college for you!

Location

Choosing a college is not about location, location, location, as it is in buying property on the Monopoly board. 🙂 Some students will only apply to colleges within 2 miles of their home; while others only want to apply to colleges in warm places. Whatever the criteria, whether you are happy in college will depend on more than where the college is located.  (Unless, of course, you’re on a remote campus of 5 people stationed in the middle of nowhere…all of you will be miserable.)

Numbers game

Contrary to popular belief, you are more than your SAT score or GPA. Students with high scores are surprised when they don’t get accepted. Students with average test scores are even more surprised when they DO get accepted. There are recommendations, essays, school reports, and other supplements that play a role in college admissions these days. The colleges that surprise many students are the ones who accept students for their potential, not just their numbers.

Legacy Colleges

Sorry parents, but if you applied to college 20 years ago, it’s not the same application process anymore.  It’s not even the same college anymore. Not to scare you, but the process is a bit more complex and time-consuming than it was back then. It’s even changed in the past 5-7 years.

There’s only one college for me

I love this one . . . there are over 3,500 colleges in the US. Really? There’s only one college that fits you? Rest assured . . . there are numerous colleges that are a great fit for you. Whether you want a small college or big, spirited campus; Kosher meals or sausage 4 times a day; rural or urban; pre-career track or philosophy major . . . . the list goes on. Each of these offerings has a range of selectivity as well, i.e. some college may accept over 70% of applicants. So let’s have some fun, please write in the one college that interests you and we’ll take a crack at posting comparable campuses.

I can’t wait to hear from you!

5 Common App College Essay Example Questions

The college application essay is a chance for students to stand out among other applicants. In fact, the essay is one part of the application that the student has complete control. Students have complete control over the essay because they can show the admissions readers what makes them unique.

Here are the 5 most common college application essay questions:

  • Write about a book you‘ve read
  • Who is someone you admire?
  • Why do you want to attend this college?
  • Tell about a meaningful activity for you.
  • What do you want to do 10 years from now?

Each question emphasizes “you.” Admissions readers want to hear from you, in your authentic voice. Writing in your voice is what makes the essay response unique and only a story that you can tell.

In writing the college application essay, you can be creative, use dialogue, or focus on a single moment. Keep in mind though that the college application essay is not an academic exercise. Your essay should come from the heart.

In blog postings over the next 5 weeks (on Monday), we will post tips for crafting a strong response for each of these different question types.

Why choose a women’s college – Leadership and diversity

Smith College

When it comes to choosing the best college, many factors come into play—location, programs, campus culture, and more. For female students, one option that often gets overlooked is the idea of attending a women’s college. Historically, women’s colleges have played a significant role in educating and empowering women, and they continue to offer unique advantages today. Let’s explore why the best women’s colleges still rank highly and what makes them an excellent choice for many young women.

The Unique Experience of Women’s Colleges

One of my high school friends attended Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, and she often speaks about how transformative her college experience was. Over the years, as I visited Smith and other historically women’s colleges, I’ve realized just how special these institutions are. They offer a unique blend of academic rigor, leadership opportunities, and a supportive environment tailored specifically to the development of women.

When discussing the idea of attending a women’s college, the first reaction from many female students is often concern about the lack of male presence: “But I won’t see any guys!” This common misconception overlooks the fact that many women’s colleges, like Barnard College, are either part of or located near co-educational institutions, allowing for a diverse social environment while still offering the benefits of a women-centered education.

If you’re open to considering why the best women’s colleges are a great fit for many young women, take a moment to hear what Barnard’s President, Debra Spar, has to say:

What Women’s Colleges Offer: A Closer Look

Q: What does the Barnard experience offer for women? How does it compare to other American colleges?

A: The Barnard experience is both similar to and distinct from other colleges. On the surface, walking across Barnard’s campus feels like being at any top university, such as Harvard or Northwestern. It’s a vibrant, urban campus with a diverse student body that includes both men and women. However, when you dig deeper, you find that Barnard students enjoy the best of both worlds: they benefit from a co-ed environment but also thrive in a space where women take center stage.

At Barnard and other top-ranked women’s colleges, women are in the majority—not just in the classroom but also in leadership roles across campus. Whether it’s the student body president, club leaders, or other positions of influence, women occupy these roles. This dynamic fosters an environment where female students can develop intellectually and personally without the pressure of being “the woman in the room.” Instead of feeling the burden of representing a gendered perspective, they are free to express themselves as individuals, which can be incredibly empowering.

Q: Do women’s colleges have specific programs to encourage leadership?

A: Absolutely. Barnard, for instance, has the Athena Center for Leadership Studies, which is dedicated to helping young women realize their leadership potential. Unlike many programs that focus on inspirational aspects of leadership, Athena’s approach is hands-on. It teaches concrete skills that are essential for leadership in any field—whether it’s running a newspaper, a college, or a Fortune 500 company. The curriculum includes finance, negotiation, fundraising, and public speaking. While these aren’t “women’s skills,” they are essential leadership skills that women, statistically, may be less inclined to pursue. The Athena Center aims to bridge that gap, equipping women with the tools they need to succeed in any leadership role.

Why Consider Historically Women’s Colleges?

There are currently 60 women’s colleges across 24 states in the U.S., with Massachusetts alone home to eight of them. These institutions have a rich history of fostering female leadership, academic excellence, and social responsibility. They’ve produced generations of women who have gone on to become leaders in various fields, from business to politics to the arts.

Women’s colleges consistently rank highly for their strong academic programs, vibrant campus communities, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Schools like Wellesley, Smith, Bryn Mawr, and Barnard are often mentioned among the best women’s colleges, offering a range of programs that rival those at co-educational institutions.

The Benefits of a Women’s College Education

1. Leadership Opportunities: At a women’s college, women lead—literally. From student government to clubs and organizations, female students are at the forefront, gaining valuable leadership experience that will serve them well in their careers and personal lives.

2. Tailored Academic Programs: Many historically women’s colleges offer specialized programs and centers that focus on women’s issues, leadership, and empowerment. These programs provide a unique lens through which students can explore their fields of interest.

3. Supportive Environment: The community at women’s colleges is often described as supportive and empowering. Students are encouraged to take risks, speak up, and take on challenges they might shy away from in a co-ed environment.

4. Diverse Social Environment: While women’s colleges are single-gender, many are located near co-ed institutions, offering students the chance to enjoy a diverse social life. Schools like Barnard and Wellesley have partnerships with nearby universities, allowing students to take classes and participate in activities across campuses.

5. Long-Term Benefits: Graduates of women’s colleges often report high levels of satisfaction with their education, citing the confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships they developed during their college years.

There are 60 women’s colleges in 24 states in the US. (Massachusetts has 8 women’s colleges.) My hope is that more female college-bound students would be open to at least considering a campus visit at a women’s college. Here is a list of those colleges:

 ALABAMA
Judson College
 CALIFORNIA
Mills College
Mount St. Mary’s College
Scripps College
 COLORADO
Woman’s College of the University of Denver
 CONNECTICUT
Hartford College for Women
St. Joseph College
 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA/ WASHINGTON, DC
Trinity University
 GEORGIA
Agnes Scott College
Brenau University   		Spelman College
Wesleyan College
 ILLINOIS
Lexington College
 INDIANA
St. Mary’s College
 St. Mary-of-the-Woods College
 KENTUCKY
Midway College
 MARYLAND
College of Notre Dame
 MASSACHUSETTS
Bay Path College
 Lesley University
 Mount Holyoke College
Pine Manor College		 Regis College
 Simmons College
 Smith College
Wellesley College
 MINNESOTA
College of St. Benedict
 College of St. Catherine
 MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi University for Women
 MISSOURI
Cottey College
 Stephens College
 NEBRASKA
College of St. Mary
 NEW JERSEY
College of St. Elizabeth
Douglas College of Rutgers University
Georgian Court College
 NEW YORK
Barnard College
 College of New Rochelle
 Russell Sage College
 Wells College
 NORTH CAROLINA
Bennett College
 Meredith College		 Peace College
Salem College
 OHIO
Ursuline College
 PENNSYLVANIA
Bryn Mawr College
Carlow College
 Cedar Crest College
 Chatham College		 Moore College of Art and Design
 Rosemont College
Wilson College
 SOUTH CAROLINA
Columbia College
 Converse College
 TEXAS
Texas Woman’s University
 VIRGINIA
Hollins University
 Mary Baldwin College
Sweet Briar College
 WISCONSIN
Alverno College
Mount Mary College

via Women’s Colleges in the United States.

Merit Based Aid: What to Know When You Don’t Qualify for Need-Based Aid

For many families, the big question is, “How do I pay for college?” January 1 marks the release date for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a crucial form for those seeking financial assistance. While the FAFSA is often associated with need-based aid, it’s important to know that many colleges also require the FAFSA for students to be considered for merit based aid.

What is Merit Based Aid?

Merit-based aid is financial assistance awarded to students based on their academic achievements, talents, or other criteria, rather than financial need. This can be a valuable resource for families who may not qualify for need-based aid but still want help covering the costs of higher education.

In addition to the FAFSA, some colleges require another form, the CSS Profile, which stands for College Scholarship Service. This form, administered by the College Board (the same organization behind the SAT), collects more detailed financial information and is used by colleges to determine eligibility for both merit aid and financial aid awards. It’s essential to check each college’s website to understand which forms are required for consideration.

Recently, Debbie Davis, an expert from Davis Education and Career Consultants, joined The Education Doctor Radio Show to discuss the ins and outs of merit aid and financial aid. With over 30 years of experience advising families on college and career decisions, Debbie has a deep understanding of how to navigate the complexities of merit-based aid. She emphasized the importance of completing the FAFSA and explained how to evaluate the value proposition when selecting a college.

For families who may not qualify for need-based aid, understanding and pursuing merit aid is crucial. By completing the necessary forms and thoroughly researching college options, students can uncover opportunities for financial assistance based on their achievements and potential. To learn more about Debbie’s insights and advice, listen to the full podcast episode.

Balanced Screen Time, Reading, and Online Behavior for Teens

In today’s digital age, parents face a myriad of challenges in raising well-rounded, academically successful, and socially responsible teens. From excessive screen time to a lack of interest in reading and navigating the complexities of online behavior, the struggles are real. This blog combines expert advice on how to encourage reading in reluctant teens, manage their texting habits, and promote appropriate online behavior.

How to Get a Child to Read When They Refuse

One of the most common concerns parents have is how to get a child to read when they refuse. Reading is a crucial skill that benefits teens academically and personally, but many teens lose interest in reading as they grow older.

Why Teens Stop Reading in Middle School

It’s not uncommon for teens to stop reading around the 6th grade. Several factors contribute to this decline in reading interest:

  • Increased Screen Time: With the rise of smartphones, social media, and video games, many teens find these activities more engaging than reading.
  • Peer Pressure: As teens become more socially aware, they may feel that reading isn’t “cool” among their friends.
  • Busy Schedules: Between homework, extracurricular activities, and socializing, finding time to read can be challenging.
  • Lack of Exposure to Engaging Books: Teens may not find books that interest them if they are not exposed to a wide range of genres and topics.

Strategies to Encourage Reading

If you’re wondering how to get a child to read when they refuse, here are some effective strategies:

  • Set a Daily Reading Routine: Encourage your teen to set aside a specific time each day for reading. This could be before bed, during a commute, or after dinner. Consistency is key to developing a habit.
  • Allow Them to Choose Their Books: Let your teen pick out books that interest them, whether it’s graphic novels, cookbooks, or even romance novels. The important thing is that they are reading.
  • Model Reading Behavior: Show your teen that reading is a valuable activity by reading yourself. When they see you enjoy reading, they are more likely to follow your example.
  • Read Aloud Together: Even though your child is older, reading aloud together can be a bonding experience and a way to introduce them to new genres or more challenging books.
  • Utilize the Library: Encourage your teen to sign up for a summer reading challenge at your local library. This not only provides motivation but also connects them with other teens who enjoy reading.

Teens and Texting: How to Manage Screen Time

Another challenge that many parents face is managing their teen’s texting and overall screen time. With the pervasive use of smartphones, it’s not uncommon for teens to spend hours on their devices, often at the expense of face-to-face communication and other important activities.

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time, including texting, can have several negative effects on teens:

  • Reduced Attention Span: Constant distractions from notifications can make it harder for teens to focus on tasks like studying or reading.
  • Impaired Social Skills: Relying on digital communication can lead to difficulties in face-to-face interactions.
  • Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation.
  • Increased Risk of Anxiety and Depression: Overuse of social media has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression in teens.

Establishing Screen Time Boundaries

To help manage your teen’s screen time, consider implementing these strategies:

  • Create a Family Screen Time Policy: Establish clear rules about when and where screens can be used. For example, no phones at the dinner table or during family time.
  • Set Limits on Screen Time: Use apps or built-in phone features to limit the amount of time your teen can spend on their phone each day.
  • Encourage Tech-Free Activities: Promote activities that don’t involve screens, such as sports, reading, or spending time outdoors.
  • Model Healthy Screen Habits: Just as with reading, your teen is likely to mimic your behavior. Make sure you are also following the screen time rules you set.

Encouraging Appropriate Online Behavior for Teens

In addition to managing screen time, it’s important to guide your teen in appropriate online behavior. With college admissions officers increasingly looking at applicants’ social media profiles, a single inappropriate post can have long-lasting consequences.

The Risks of Inappropriate Online Behavior

Teens may not fully grasp the potential risks of their online behavior. Here are some risks associated with inappropriate online actions:

  • Damage to Reputation: Inappropriate posts can harm a teen’s reputation, both socially and professionally.
  • College Admissions Impact: As noted, many college admissions officers review applicants’ social media. A negative online presence can affect a teen’s chances of getting into their preferred college.
  • Cyberbullying: Posting or sharing harmful content can contribute to cyberbullying, which can have serious consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator.
  • Legal Issues: Some online behavior, such as sharing explicit content, can lead to legal trouble.

Promoting Positive Online Behavior

To help your teen navigate the online world safely and responsibly, follow these guidelines:

  • Talk About Online Risks: Have an open conversation with your teen about the risks of inappropriate online behavior. Make sure they understand that what they post online can have real-world consequences.
  • Teach Digital Etiquette: Encourage your teen to be respectful and considerate in their online interactions. Remind them that their online behavior should reflect the values they hold in real life.
  • Monitor Their Online Activity: While it’s important to respect your teen’s privacy, it’s also wise to keep an eye on their online activity. This doesn’t mean reading every message, but being aware of the platforms they use and the content they post.
  • Encourage “Think Before You Post”: Teach your teen to pause and think before posting anything online. A good rule of thumb is to ask themselves if they would be comfortable with a college admissions officer or future employer seeing the post.

Conclusion

Balancing screen time, encouraging reading, and promoting appropriate online behavior are all crucial aspects of raising a well-rounded teen. By implementing these strategies, you can help your teen develop healthy habits that will serve them well throughout their life.

When considering how to get a child to read when they refuse, managing teens and texting, or encouraging appropriate online behavior for teens, remember that consistency and open communication are key. These practices not only help your teen succeed academically but also prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood.

via Education Week: Bad Online Behavior Jeopardizes Students’ College Plans.

How Long Should College Essays Be? Tips to Meet the Word Count

How Long Should College Essays Be?

It’s much more difficult to write a short essay than a long essay. Each year, my students struggle with cutting their college application essays to meet the 100- or 500-word count prescribed by the colleges, particularly on the Common Application. In fairness to the admissions readers and the other applicants, students should make every effort to stay within those guidelines as a recent post from the NY Times suggests:

Unlike other parts of the application, which, in its online version, cuts students off midword if they exceed character limits, the personal statement will not be truncated, raising the question in school corridors: How long should college essays be? Does 500 really mean 500?In a word, no. In two words, kind of.

“If a student uploaded a 500,000-word essay, there’s nothing we could do,” said Rob Killion, executive director of Common Application, which is accepted by more than 400 colleges and universities. “However, we do ask that all students follow the same rules their peers are following.”Mr. Killion said the limit was reinstated after feedback that essays had grown too long. But colleges are not told if essays exceed the limit. Jon Reider, director of college counseling at San Francisco University High School, agreed that concise writing was laudable but said the implication of a strict limit was misleading. “I worry about that kid who’s written 530 and thinks he has to cut 30 words,” he said. “It just puts another stage of anxiety in front of these kids.” Jeffrey Brenzel, dean of undergraduate admissions at Yale, said he did not stop reading if an essay ran long, but “if they go over the limit, the stakes go up.”

via College Application Essay as Haiku? For Some, 500 Words Aren’t Enough – NYTimes.com.

If the word count is over the limit by about 10% in words, that’s not so bad. However, when students add an additional 50% or more, it shows a lack of judgment and an arrogant pen.

To determine the interest of your essay and where to delete:

  1. Read your essay aloud for any redundancies. Delete any and all redundancies, which includes information that is repeated from other parts of your application.
  2. Focus on showing, instead of telling. When you “show,” your essay is more engaging to read.
  3. Picture an admissions officer lying in the bed at 1 am, after reading 50 applications that night. Then ask yourself if your essay will be compelling enough to keep them awake or put them sleep.
  4. Read your essay aloud again. It may feel uncomfortable, but think about it this way. If your essay isn’t interesting enough for you to read aloud, how do you think it will “sound” to the admissions readers?

Please let me know what other tips/tricks have worked for you in streamlining your college application essay!

How to Ace the SAT: Last-Minute SAT Advice and Best Tips

When it comes to acing the SAT, a positive mindset can be just as important as your study routine. As the saying goes, “If you think you can, you can.” This principle is backed by research, especially when it comes to test-taking. If you’re feeling anxious and telling yourself, “I’m not going to do well,” that self-doubt can negatively impact your performance. To help you manage anxiety and boost your confidence, here are some of the best SAT tips to follow, especially as the test day approaches.

1. Visualize Success to Boost Confidence

One of the most powerful last-minute SAT advice tips is to mentally prepare yourself by envisioning success. According to Dr. Driscoll, teaching yourself to think positively about the test can make a significant difference. Imagine yourself in a challenging yet exhilarating situation—whether it’s scoring a goal in soccer or reaching the top of a mountain. Then, transfer that feeling of accomplishment and confidence to the SAT testing room. With practice, this mental exercise can help you feel more confident and focused when it’s time to take the test.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Environment

Reducing stress on the day of the exam is crucial for avoiding last-minute jitters. Sian Beilock, a researcher on cognitive performance, suggests that unfamiliar settings can increase anxiety and hinder your performance. If possible, visit the test center beforehand to familiarize yourself with the environment. Knowing exactly where you’ll be taking the test can help you feel more at ease, allowing you to focus solely on the questions at hand.

3. Write Down Your Worries Before the Test

Another effective strategy for how to ace the SAT is to clear your mind of any anxieties right before the test begins. Dr. Beilock recommends setting aside 10 minutes to write down your worries before you start the exam. In a study with ninth-graders, students who engaged in this writing exercise performed just as well as their less anxious peers. On the other hand, anxious students who didn’t write down their thoughts performed worse. By expressing your concerns in writing, you can free up mental space, allowing you to concentrate fully on the SAT.

4. Prioritize a Full Night’s Rest

One of the best SAT tips that cannot be overstated is the importance of getting a full night’s sleep before the test. Many students, especially teens, are used to staying up late and may not realize how much this habit can affect their performance. A well-rested mind is more alert, focused, and capable of tackling challenging questions. Make sure to go to bed early the night before the SAT to give your brain the rest it needs to perform at its best.

5. Fuel Your Brain with the Right Breakfast

What you eat on the morning of the SAT can also influence your performance. A nutrient-rich breakfast, particularly one that includes oatmeal, can give you the sustained energy needed for the test. Oatmeal is known to provide a slow release of energy, helping to keep you focused and alert throughout the exam. This breakfast tip is one I’ve followed for years, even making oatmeal for my children during their elementary school testing periods, and the benefits have been consistently proven.