3 Tips to Improve College Admission Odds
At times, the college admissions process can feel like you’re being thrown to the wolves. The competition is fierce, the process overwhelming, and the stakes? Pretty high. Your chance of success at your student’s ideal school can feel grim, to say the least. But here’s the good news: there are ways to boost your student’s chances of getting accepted, and they’re often more doable than you think.
Here are three simple moves that can help your student stand out – and lower the stress level at home in the process.
Focus on “Demonstrated Interest”
Yes, colleges are watching! Many schools track whether students are genuinely interested in attending their university, and this “demonstrated interest” can factor into admissions decisions. Like so many things in life, showing up matters.
Here are some simple ways to demonstrate interest at your college or university of choice:
- Visit the campus
- Open emails from the college and click through
- Follow schools on social media
- Attend info sessions or college fairs
- Email admissions reps with thoughtful questions
Colleges want students who want to be there. Demonstrated interest shows you’re not just applying to check a box or casting a wide net to see what sticks, you’re actually paying attention.
Complete a Strong Application
There’s a lot that goes into a college application, and you should always go the extra mile. Show the admissions committee that you’ve done your research and want to be at their institution.
In addition to the Common App essay that is shared with all the schools you select, you may also be able to boost your application through the supplemental essays that some schools require. It’s in these essays where you can get deep and granular about the specific classes you want to take, the professors you would like to study under, the clubs you would like to join, etc.
Apply Strategically
Not all applications are created equal. Applying early, applying smart and having a balanced college list can make a difference to your admission odds.
Whenever possible, apply early to boost your chances at some schools. This is also important because many schools tie scholarship opportunities to early deadlines. Keep in mind that senior-year burnout is real, and rushed applications rarely shine.
Contact Us at College Inroads with Questions
Improving admission success doesn’t have to mean overloading your student’s schedule or chasing prestige. It’s about being intentional, personal and proactive during the college application process.
At College Inroads, we help families take the guesswork out of this process and bring clarity, confidence and calm to the college journey. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your family prepare for college.
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