Below are the most common myths I hear from families, along with what’s actually true today.

Myth #1: “Test scores don’t matter much anymore.”

What families are being told: Since so many colleges are test optional, SAT and ACT scores are basically irrelevant. A strong GPA and activities will carry the application.

What’s actually true in 2026: Test scores matter more than ever when they are submitted, especially at selective colleges. With grade inflation, uneven rigor across high schools, and test optional policies shrinking the applicant pool of reported scores, admissions offices rely heavily on testing to compare students from different schools on a common scale.

At many colleges, strong scores are one of the clearest signals that a student is academically prepared for the pace and intensity of the classroom. In a crowded applicant pool, test scores often act as a differentiator, not an afterthought.

This is especially true for competitive majors, merit scholarships, and institutions with high academic expectations, even if they remain officially test optional.

Smart takeaway: In today’s admissions landscape, testing is often one of the most powerful tools a student can control to strengthen their application.

Myth #2: “More AP classes always mean a stronger application.”

What families worry about: If my student isn’t taking the maximum number of APs, colleges will think they are not competitive.

What’s actually true in 2026: Colleges evaluate course rigor in the context of what is available at a student’s high school and what makes sense for that student. A transcript overloaded with APs that leads to burnout or declining grades can raise concerns rather than help.

Admissions readers are asking thoughtful questions:

• Did the student challenge themselves appropriately?
• Did they perform well in those classes?
• Is there balance between rigor, well‑being, and meaningful involvement outside the classroom?

Smart takeaway: Quality and performance, along with choices of courses made in context of a career path, matter more than sheer quantity of AP classes.

Myth #3: “Volunteering is only valuable if it looks impressive.”

What families worry about: My student needs a flashy nonprofit, medical mission trip, or hundreds of service hours to stand out.

What’s actually true in 2026: Admissions officers consistently value sustained involvement over one‑off or resume‑driven volunteering. Helping at a local food pantry for two years, mentoring younger students, or supporting a cause that genuinely matters to the student often carries more weight than a short‑term experience chosen solely for appearances.

Colleges are looking for authenticity, commitment, and impact at an appropriate scale for a high school student.

Smart takeaway: Meaningful, consistent service beats impressive‑sounding but shallow experiences every time.

Myth #4: “Leadership means being president of everything.”

What families worry about: If my student isn’t a club president or team captain, they won’t be seen as a leader.

What’s actually true in 2026: Leadership shows up in many forms. Starting a new initiative, mentoring peers, taking responsibility in a family business, or being the reliable person others depend on can all demonstrate leadership.

Admissions readers look for evidence of influence, initiative, and responsibility, not just titles.

Smart takeaway: Leadership is about impact and initiative, not the name of the position. Have a conversation with your child about the ways in which they’ve demonstrated leadership, even without a title.

Myth #5: “There’s one perfect college, and getting in means success.”

What families worry about: If my student doesn’t get into a specific school, they’ve failed or missed their chance.

What’s actually true in 2026: There are hundreds upon hundreds of colleges where students can thrive academically, socially, and professionally. Outcomes depend far more on what students do once they arrive than on the name on the sweatshirt.

Admissions professionals strongly encourage balanced college lists that include academic, financial, and personal fit. This approach leads to better outcomes and less stress for families.

Smart takeaway: The best college is one where your student can succeed, grow, and afford to enroll.

Myth #6: “Admissions is unpredictable and totally out of our control.”

What families worry about: The process feels random, so planning doesn’t really matter.

What’s actually true in 2026: While selective admissions are competitive, much of the process is very predictable when families understand how colleges evaluate students. Thoughtful course planning, realistic school selection, early preparation, and clear communication all improve outcomes.

Smart takeaway: The process is complex, but it is far from random.

Final Thoughts

Most college admissions stress comes from outdated assumptions rather than current reality. When families focus on steady academic growth, meaningful involvement, and realistic planning, students are far better positioned for success.

If you’re unsure which advice applies to your student or want help separating myth from fact, working with current, data‑driven guidance can make the process calmer and far more effective. If you have any questions, please reach out to me for a free consultation.

Planning early and planning smart still matters. It just looks different than many families expect.

The post College Admissions Myths That Trip Up Families—and What’s Actually True in 2026 appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

Early Decision (ED): Binding Commitment

• What it is: Students apply early (usually by November 1) and commit to attend if admitted.
• Pros: Higher acceptance rates at some schools, clear admission decision by December.
• Cons: Binding commitment limits the ability to compare financial aid offers. Not ideal for families who need to weigh costs.

Best for: Students who are 100% sure of their top choice and families who are comfortable with the likely financial commitment.

Early Action (EA): Non-Binding Flexibility

• What it is: Students apply early, receive an admission decision by December/January, but don’t have to commit until May 1.
• Pros: More time to compare colleges and financial aid, early peace of mind if admitted.
• Cons: Some selective schools (like Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford) offer Restrictive/Single-Choice EA, which limits applying early elsewhere.

Best for: Students who want the advantage of applying early but need flexibility to compare options. This is a popular option for many students.

Financial Aid Timing

Here’s where families can get tripped up: Financial aid deadlines often match or even come earlier than application deadlines.

• FAFSA and CSS Profile: Open in the fall; check each college’s priority deadline if applying for need-based aid (many align with Nov. 1 for ED/EA).
• Scholarships: To be eligible for merit aid consideration, applications are due early (often 11/1). Missing these deadlines can reduce available funds.
• ED families: Since ED is binding, request a financial aid “pre-read” if available. This can give you a realistic sense of affordability before committing.

Key Takeaways for Parents

1. Discuss priorities early. Is the student chasing a dream school, maximizing merit aid, or keeping options open until spring?
2. Mark every deadline. Track application, FAFSA, CSS, and scholarship deadlines together.
3. Run net price calculators. Get a preview of costs at each college before committing to ED.
4. Have a financial plan. Decide as a family how much you are willing and able to pay.

Final Thought

Early Decision and Early Action can give students a powerful head start in the college process—but only if families align on both academic and financial fit. The best applications happen when everyone understands the trade-offs and deadlines well before November arrives. And if you’re unsure how to guide your teen through that process—let’s talk.

The post A Parent’s Guide to Early Decision, Early Action, and Financial Aid appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

The answer depends on the schools your student is applying to. The application process for the best colleges can look very different from the process for your local in-state public universities. One of the biggest differences is the level of strategy involved, from building a school list to writing the college essay.

Here is how to know when professional help makes sense and when you can feel confident going it alone.

When You Probably Do Not Need a College Admissions Consultant

If your student is focusing on in-state public universities, a consultant is usually not necessary.

Why? Most in-state public schools publish clear admission requirements, and many admit the majority of students who meet them. Your high school counselor and the university’s own website may be some of your best resources.

What to focus on:

• Submit applications and scholarship forms on time
• Confirm your student’s courses meet all admission requirements
• Watch deadlines for honors programs and merit scholarships

For these schools, a strong application and well-written college essay are still important, but you can likely handle this process without outside help. However, if your state flagship school is highly competitive, getting some extra guidance and support might be the right choice.

When a Consultant Can Help With the Best Colleges List

If your student is applying to a mix of in-state, out-of-state, and private colleges, the process becomes more complicated.

Many of the best colleges use different application platforms, such as the Common App or school-specific portals. They may also require multiple supplemental essays on top of the main college essay.

In this situation, a college admissions consultant can:

• Help create a well-balanced list that includes the best colleges for your student’s goals
• Keep all deadlines, applications, and essays organized
• Provide guidance on writing an effective college essay and supplemental essays that will help your student stand out

This kind of support reduces stress and ensures nothing important is missed.

When a Consultant is Highly Recommended for Competitive Schools

If your student is aiming for highly selective or competitive schools – the best colleges with low acceptance rates – expert guidance is often worth it.

These schools look for more than strong grades and test scores. A compelling story, presented through the college essay and activity list, can make a real difference.

A consultant can:

• Provide insight into what highly selective schools value
• Assist in creating a balanced list of schools, ensuring some higher-likelihood schools are included
• Help your student craft a powerful college essay and supplemental essays that align with each school’s priorities
• Prepare for interviews, video submissions, auditions, or portfolios where applicable

At this level, attention to these details can make a real difference.

Additional Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to hire a college admissions consultant, think about:

• Your family’s time and ability to track multiple deadlines
• Your student’s organization, motivation, and writing skills
• Your level of confidence about which of the best colleges are realistic choices

The Bottom Line

You do not need to hire a college admissions consultant just because others are. If your student is applying only to in-state public schools, you can likely manage this process with good organization and a strong college essay.

If your student is looking at a mix of schools or aiming for the best colleges, a consultant can offer strategy, structure, and peace of mind — especially when it comes to creating a compelling college essay that sets your student apart.

Every family’s path is unique. The important thing is that your student submits the best applications possible to the colleges on their list.

The post Do You Need a College Admissions Consultant for the Best Colleges? appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

The college application process is an exciting yet stressful journey for students and their families. One of the most crucial steps in this process is building a balanced college list—one that includes a mix of low-likelihood, medium-likelihood and high-likelihood schools. An unbalanced list can lead to unnecessary stress and disappointment, while a well-crafted one ensures students have viable options that align with their academic profile, interests, and financial considerations.

Understanding the Three Categories

1. Reach (Low-Likelihood) Schools – These are institutions where a student’s academic credentials (GPA, standardized test scores, coursework, etc.) are below the school’s average admitted student profile, or where a very low number of students are admitted generally. While acceptance is unlikely, applying to a few reach schools can provide students with the opportunity to aim high.
2. Target (Medium-Likelihood) Schools – These are colleges where the student’s academic profile closely aligns with the school’s average admitted student. While acceptance is not guaranteed, students have a strong chance of being admitted.
3. Safety (High-Likelihood) Schools – These are schools where the student’s credentials exceed the average admitted student profile, making acceptance highly likely. Safety schools should still be institutions the student is excited about attending.

Why a Balanced List Matters

• Reduces Stress and Uncertainty – Applying only to reach schools can result in multiple rejections, while applying only to safety schools may lead to a feeling of missed opportunities. A balanced list increases the likelihood of having choices when decisions are released.
• Maximizes Opportunities – By applying to a range of schools, students can compare financial aid offers, scholarships, and program strengths to make an informed decision.
• Ensures a Good Fit – A well-rounded list allows students to evaluate a variety of institutions in terms of academic programs, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities.
• Protect Against Unknowns – Colleges adjust their admissions priorities each year based on institutional goals, which means what mattered most last cycle—like test scores or specific majors—might shift to focus on different majors, geographic balance, or first-generation students the next.

Tips for Creating a Balanced College List

• Research Extensively – Look beyond rankings and prestige to consider factors like location, campus life, available majors, and financial aid.
• Be Realistic and Reflective – Consider academic strengths, career goals, and personal preferences when selecting schools.
• Aim for a Mix – A good rule of thumb is applying to 2-3 safety schools, 3-5 match schools, and 2-3 reach schools.
• Consult Counselors and Mentors – Seeking guidance from college counselors, teachers, and family members can help refine choices and set realistic expectations.

Final Thoughts

A balanced college list is essential for a successful application journey. By ensuring students have a mix of reach, target, and safety schools, they can approach the admissions process with confidence and optimism. The goal is not just to get into college but to find a place where students will thrive academically, socially, and personally. If you have any questions on college guidance or admissions, please reach out to me for a free consultation.

The post The Importance of a Balanced College List appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

1. Acknowledge Their Feelings

Rejection hurts, and it’s okay for your child to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even embarrassed. Listening is key. Encourage them to express their emotions and remind them that their feelings are valid. Avoid minimizing their pain with phrases like “It’s not a big deal”—instead, let them know you’re there to listen.

2. Remind Them That It’s Not a Reflection of Their Worth

College admissions are incredibly competitive, and rejections often come down to factors beyond their control. College admissions decisions are not transparent. Reinforce that this one decision does not define their intelligence, abilities, or potential for success.

3. Normalize Rejection

Share stories of successful people who faced rejection and still thrived. Even some of the most accomplished individuals have been turned down by their dream schools—but that didn’t stop them from achieving great things. Also, remind them that many of their peers are likely experiencing similar results but might not only be sharing the good results.

4. Help Them Explore Other Options

Encourage them to consider their other acceptances with an open mind. If they’ve been waitlisted at a school they love, discuss whether they want to write a letter of continued interest. You can also explore transfer options after a year at another college.

5. Shift the Focus to the Future

Starting college is just the first step in a long journey. Encourage them to get excited about new opportunities—whether it’s excelling at another school, exploring internships, or taking a gap year to gain experience.

6. Celebrate Their Efforts

Applying to college is an accomplishment in itself. Recognize the hard work they put in and celebrate the acceptances they did receive.

7. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Rejections can be stepping stones to success. Encourage your child to reflect on what they can learn from this experience and how they can use it to grow stronger.

If you have any questions about college applications or college guidance, please reach out to me for a free consultation.

The post Guiding your Child through College Rejection appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

1. Highly Competitive Applicant Pools

Volume of Applications: Many colleges, especially highly selective ones, receive far more applications than they can accept. Even highly qualified students face tough odds. The Common App and other tools make it easier for students to apply to multiple schools, increasing the volume of applications. Also, many colleges have test-optional admissions, so more students feel confident applying, further inflating the applicant pool.

High Standards: When many applicants have exceptional grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and essays, colleges must make difficult distinctions.

Institutional Priorities: Colleges seek a well-rounded class, not just well-rounded students. They aim to balance academics, diversity, athletics, arts, and other institutional goals. Students are not privy to these priorities, making the process mysterious and anxiety-provoking.

2. Holistic Admissions

Beyond Academics: Strong grades and test scores are necessary but not always sufficient. Colleges also consider essays, recommendations, leadership roles, unique talents, and personal qualities.

Subjective Judgments: Admissions officers may weigh essays or extracurricular activities differently, making outcomes unpredictable.

3. Limited Spots for Certain Profiles

Overrepresented Demographics: Students from highly represented groups (e.g., certain regions, schools, or ethnic backgrounds) might face tougher competition.

Major or Program Popularity: Some majors (like computer science or business) are more competitive, limiting spots for even highly qualified applicants.

4. Demonstrated Interest

Some schools consider how much interest a student shows in attending. If they believe a strong student is unlikely to enroll (e.g., “overqualified” candidates), they might defer or deny to improve their yield rate.

5. Early Action/Decision Dynamics

Deferrals in Early Rounds: Colleges may defer strong applicants during Early Action/Early Decision to evaluate them alongside the Regular Decision pool.

Strategic Enrollment Management: Deferrals help colleges manage the uncertainty of how many students will accept offers. Colleges are big businesses: they have to meet their yield numbers each year, and every decision is with these numbers in mind.

6. Weaknesses or Red Flags

Perceived Gaps: Even strong applicants may have weaker areas, such as lack of rigor in senior-year courses, a dip in grades, or a generic essay that doesn’t stand out.

Recommendation Letters: Subpar or lukewarm recommendations can hurt an application, even if other components are strong.

7. Randomness

Unpredictable Factors: At elite colleges, admissions can seem random because decisions often come down to splitting hairs among similarly qualified students.

What Students Can Do

If deferred or denied, students can:

For Deferrals:

• Submit a letter of continued interest.
• Update the college with new achievements.
• Reaffirm enthusiasm for the school. If the school is your first choice, tell them that you’ll attend their school if given the chance.

For Denials:

• Focus on other acceptances and opportunities.
• Consider transfer options in the future if still passionate about the school.

Ultimately, college admissions reflect not just individual qualifications but also the institutional needs and priorities of a particular year. Strong students may thrive anywhere, even if their top-choice school doesn’t accept them.

If you have any questions about college applications or college guidance, please reach out to me for a free consultation.

The post Why do colleges defer or deny good students? appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

But wait! What did your child learn? Does she know that she is ready to apply to this college? Why?

This is the way I think about it: you (the parent) have likely made a significant investment of time and possibly money (flights, hotel stays) to head to this college tour. So have a plan. This college might be one of the biggest investments you’ll make for your child. Let’s not leave it to chance that you’ll have the perfect tour guide on a sunny day who says all the right things. Here is what you can do to make the most of your visits:

• Plan it out. Why does your child want to go to college? What do they want to study? What is important to them about their college experience? These are hard questions. so guiding your child in thinking about their answers before they go to campuses is beneficial. Help them to create a list of what’s most important. (Example: 1. Academic supports 2. Nice dorms 3. Supportive peers/community) That way, they’re looking for specific things, not just enjoying the scenery.
• Have your child come up with questions in advance. Is it important to them to be able to easily walk from their dorm to class? Do they have to be able to have a parking spot on campus? Do they want lots of weekend activities? Does the cafeteria have options to support their dietary restrictions? Have your child, with your help, come up with a list of 10 to 15 questions that they can ask the tour guide or other students they encounter while on campus. They should bring a notebook and take notes. Trust me, it will help.
• Let your child be in charge. Your child is the one that is heading to college, not you. She needs to ask the questions, not you. Don’t be that parent who dominates each stop on tour! This is a time for your child to get the information pertinent to her. If you have questions, there are lots of opportunities to ask them (after the tour, email follow up, you get the idea). Give your child her time to shine!

• Observe the students as they walk past you. What’s the vibe you are getting about who is on campus? Do students look happy? In a rush? Stressed? Are they having conversations with each other, or looking down at their phones? Are any students talking to faculty members? Are there activities that you notice – tables with groups promoting events, frisbee, classes being held outside?
• Talk with your child after the tour. Listen to him. What did he think? What were his most significant impressions? What about the tour might be different if you went on a different day or had a different tour guide? If the time is right, it might even be a good moment for you to learn more about and connect with your child. Your goal in this conversation is to determine if he thinks this college is a good fit for him in ways that are meaningful to him. Some kids will open up and share, some won’t talk much, and that’s okay. If all else fails, try stopping close to campus for ice cream.

Need guidance on the college journey? Reach out to schedule a no-pressure consultation here.

The post How to Visit a College appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

Here are the four main admission decision plans (note: not all schools offer all of these options):

Regular Decision – typical due date is in January

Rolling Admission – the earlier students apply, the earlier they get a decision

Early Action – typical due date is in November

Early Decision – usually due in November, the decision is a binding commitment

Regular Decision

Regular Decision remains the traditional approach, requiring applications to be submitted by a standard deadline, often around January 1st. Admissions decisions are typically released in the spring, allowing students ample time to consider their options. Rolling Decision, however, operates on a first-come, first-served basis, giving applicants the advantage of receiving decisions sooner. This option offers flexibility, though applying earlier can be advantageous due to limited space.

Early Action

For those seeking an accelerated timeline, Early Action (EA) is an attractive choice. Most of my students apply EA to the majority of schools. With deadlines usually falling in November, students applying through EA receive admission decisions earlier than the regular pool. The non-binding nature of EA provides the flexibility to explore multiple college options.

Early Decision

Conversely, Early Decision (ED) entails submitting applications by the same early deadline but carries a binding commitment. If accepted, students commit to attending that institution, making it a suitable option for applicants who are certain about their top-choice school. ED applicants often face a higher acceptance rate compared to regular decision, reflecting the institution’s interest in admitting students who are genuinely enthusiastic about attending. Due to the binding nature of ED, students need to make sure they can afford their top choice, and that they won’t change their mind.

A distinctive variation of early application is Restrictive Early Action (REA). This approach allows students to apply early to a college without the binding commitment associated with ED. However, REA applicants usually cannot apply to other private colleges’ early decision programs concurrently. This plan provides a balance between early notification and the flexibility to keep other options open. One key consideration for students applying through early decision plans, whether ED or REA, is the potential boost in acceptance rates. Colleges tend to admit a higher percentage of their incoming class through these avenues, recognizing the commitment demonstrated by these applicants.

The variety of college admissions decision plans cater to different timelines and levels of commitment. Regular Decision and Rolling Decision offer traditional and flexible paths, respectively, while Early Action provides early notification without binding commitments. Early Decision and Restrictive Early Action are options for students with a firm top choice and a willingness to commit. Each plan has its merits, and the choice depends on an applicant’s circumstances, level of certainty, and desired timeline.

Please reach out if you or your student have questions about the admissions process!

The post Choosing the Right College Deadline appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

Applying to college can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming process, but with some careful planning and preparation, you can authentically showcase yourself as a strong candidate.

Here are some key thoughts.

1. Reflect on your interests and goals: Take time to think about your interests, and what you hope to achieve in college and beyond. Consider your academic strengths, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences. Self reflect: what makes you unique?
2. Research colleges: Explore different colleges that align with your interests and goals. Look into their programs, location, size, campus culture, and other criteria that matter to you. Make a list of colleges that you are genuinely interested in and can see yourself attending. Try to focus on what’s important to you rather than the school’s reputation, ranking, or what family and peers think of it.
3. Plan your academic coursework: Let’s face it, colleges look for students who challenge themselves academically. Make sure you are taking a rigorous course load that aligns with your interests and future goals. This may include honors, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or college-level courses, depending on what is offered at your school.
4. Get involved in meaningful activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that you are passionate about and that demonstrate your leadership, commitment, and impact. This could include sports, clubs, community service, internships, or part-time jobs. Quality over quantity is key, so focus on a few activities that you truly care about and can dedicate your time and energy to.

   

5. Build relationships with teachers and counselors: Your teachers and counselors can provide valuable insights, guidance, and recommendation letters for your college application. Seek their advice, ask questions, and make sure to maintain a positive and respectful relationship with them throughout high school.
6. Prepare for standardized tests: Though most colleges are test-optional, a good ACT or SAT test score can still be a valuable component of your application. Prepare for these tests by taking practice exams, reviewing test materials, and considering test prep resources, if needed. 

   

7. Write a compelling personal essay: The personal essay is an opportunity to express yourself and share your story with the admissions committee. Be authentic, reflective, and genuine in your writing. Share your experiences, aspirations, and how you have grown and learned from challenges. Edit and revise your essay to make it the best possible representation of yourself.
8. Submit strong letters of recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other adults who know you well and can speak to your strengths and character. Provide them with ample time to write the letters and make sure to thank them for their support.
9. Submit your application on time: Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your application, including all required documents, on time. Make sure to review your application for accuracy and completeness before submission.
10. Be yourself: Finally, remember to be true to yourself throughout the entire application process. Avoid trying to be someone you are not or embellishing your accomplishments. Admissions officers appreciate authenticity and are looking for students who will contribute positively to their college community.

Remember, applying to college is a long process that requires time, effort, and careful consideration. Being true to yourself at each stage will lead to a great outcome, which is ultimately attending a college that fits who you are and thriving there! We can help – contact Matrix to learn more!

The post How to Authenically Apply to College appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.

What does a “balanced list” mean? A balanced list contains colleges that meet his priorities and span the range of admissions probabilities. A student should include schools where he has a high likelihood of being admitted (often referred to as “safety” schools), as well as schools with a medium likelihood of admission (“target schools”) and a lower likelihood of admission (“reach”). An unbalanced list (all “reach” schools, for example), can create an incredible amount of anxiety and stress later on in the admissions season. Creating a balanced list ensures that your child will apply to colleges that fit her well, and he will have a good chance of getting some acceptances.

What are some of the factors to consider to begin to build a college list? There are hundreds, but have your child ask himself some questions about these 10 factors.

1. Fit: Does the college feel like a good fit for you? Thinking of what’s most important to you (and not your friends, family, or rankings), can you see yourself thriving there? Once you do some research and decide on schools to visit, campus tours and conversations with current students can help you determine fit.
2. Location: Consider whether you want to stay close to home, or if you’re open to moving to a different region or state. Try to picture yourself in that location for most of the year and how that would feel. How easy is it to get home? Is it drivable? If not, are there nonstop flights? What is the setting? Is it urban, suburban, small town, or rural? How does that compare with where you live now?
3. Size: Think about whether you prefer a large, medium, or small campus, and how many students are enrolled. Visit schools of different sizes near you if possible. Would it be easy to get to your classes? If there are a lot of students, do classes fill up fast?
4. Academic programs: Research the colleges’ academic offerings and make sure they have the major or majors you’re interested in. Explore a sample 4-year schedule of a student in that major.
5. Extracurricular activities: Look into clubs, sports, and other activities that align with your interests. How easy is it to join these activities?
6. Cost: Take into account the total cost of attendance, including tuition, room and board, and other fees. Research the colleges’ financial aid and scholarship options, and whether they meet your needs.
7. First-year programs and retention: What does the college do for first-year students? Do they offer special programs or early move in? Are there bonding activities or service opportunities to get to know peers? What is the first-year retention rate for the college?
8. Graduation rate: Also look into the college’s graduation rate and how it compares to other colleges. Note: colleges publish 4-year and 6-year graduation rates. Students often take more than 4 years to graduate due to change in major, program considerations, or co-op placements.
9. Career opportunities: Research the college’s career services office and the job prospects for graduates in your field of interest.
10. Academic environment: How much choice do students get in choosing classes? What is the student to faculty ratio? What is the average class size? How accessible are the professors? What types of academic supports are in place? Is the atmosphere competitive or collaborative?

So while there are lots of colleges out there to explore, by carefully considering these factors, your child can find the right colleges to add to her list that fits her in a lot of ways and she can be excited about applying to them. I work with students on narrowing down their criteria all the time by asking questions and using some great tools. Need some help with this? Schedule a no-pressure consultation with me here.

The post How Does My Student Create a Balanced College List? appeared first on Matrix College Consulting.