Are you dreaming of getting into an Ivy League college like Yale, Harvard, Princeton, MIT, Stanford, Amherst, Wesleyen, Wellesley, Swarthmore, or Haverford? The college application process can be overwhelming, especially with all the changes that have been happening in recent years. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
First, let’s talk about the importance of SAT and ACT scores. With the rise of test-optional admissions, many students believe that these scores don’t matter anymore. However, recent data from highly selective schools shows that submitting SAT scores can increase your chances of acceptance by up to 2.3 times. Michael Bloomberg also emphasized the importance of these metrics in helping us benchmark where our students are and where we need to be to compete globally.
The video discusses how to get into Ivy League colleges and other highly selective schools. The speaker talks about the importance of SAT scores and recommends submitting them as they increase your chances of acceptance. She also suggests writing a great essay that demonstrates personal growth and change, getting bullet-pointed recommendations to make it easier for recommenders, and doing all extra supplements to stand out. Additionally, the speaker advises using the net price calculator and FAFSA forecaster to plan for financial aid and identifying factors that make you unique to the school you are applying to.
CREDIT TO:Alyssa the College Expert
So, if you’re looking to get into an Ivy League college, here are six things you should do:
- Write a great essay. A key element of a great essay is showcasing how you’ve changed, with a clear before and after. This is an opportunity to show who you are beyond your test scores and grades.
- Submit your SAT scores. Despite the rise of test-optional admissions, submitting your SAT scores can increase your chances of acceptance.
- Get bulleted recommendations from people who know you. Bulleted recommendations are easier to generate and can lead to better and faster recommendations. Give your recommenders a brag sheet to help them highlight your accomplishments and control the narrative of your recommendation letter.
- Use financial aid calculators to determine the net price of colleges and plan for the future. Assume you will accept loans from the federal government and keep your debt under $30,000 in four years to avoid financial strain later on.
- Complete all extra supplements. While they may be labeled as optional, completing extra supplements can help you stand out and show your multifaceted personality.
- Distinguish yourself at the place you’re applying to. Identify what factors make you unique and take advantage of opportunities to showcase them, such as reaching out to professors or participating in on-campus clubs.
In a year where the application process is more random than ever, it’s essential to do everything you can to distinguish yourself and make yourself interesting to admissions departments. Send them anything you can think of, whether it’s a recording of your music or a piece of art you created. The more multifaceted you are, the more likely they are to accept you.
So don’t be overwhelmed by the college application process. Follow these tips to increase your chances of acceptance into an Ivy League college. And remember, SAT and ACT scores still matter, so don’t skip out on submitting them. Good luck!