What College Admissions Looks Like Now—Not When We Applied

If you’re a parent navigating the college process with your teen, chances are you’ve had a moment of disbelief:

“This is nothing like when I applied.”

You’re absolutely right. College admissions have changed—dramatically.

When we applied, most of us submitted to 4–6 schools, mailed in applications (often handwritten or typed), and hoped for the best. There were standardized tests, a personal essay, and maybe a school tour if it was nearby. The process wasn’t easy, but it also wasn’t this complex.

Fast forward to today’s environment:
Students are applying to 10, 15, even 20 schools. A Common App that feels more like a job application. Essays for everyschool. The pressure to show “passion,” leadership, and impact. Test-optional policies that add strategy questions instead of removing them. Social media comparisons that quietly raise the stakes.

It’s no wonder so many families feel overwhelmed. But the goal isn’t to panic—it’s to understand the new rules of the game so we can help our kids navigate it with less stress and more strategy.

Here’s what’s changed the most:

  • Test-optional isn’t test-blind. Many schools say they don’t require SAT or ACT scores, but strong scores can still boost an application—especially for merit scholarships.

  • Holistic review is real. Colleges are reading essays and activity lists more closely. They’re looking for voice, values, and potential.

  • Volume has exploded. Some universities receive tens of thousands more applications than they did a decade ago. That means standing out matters.

  • Demonstrated interest can tip the scale. Did your student visit the school? Open the emails? Attend a webinar? At some colleges, that counts.

As a parent, your role isn’t to be an expert on every detail—but it is helpful to understand the big shifts and why the process now requires more time, intention, and support than ever before.

You don’t need to micromanage—but you do need a plan.

💬 Want to talk about what support could look like for your teen—whether they’re in Class of 2027, 2028, or 2029?
I work 1:1 with a small number of families each year to keep things boutique and personalized.

📩 highperformanceacademics@gmail.com
📱 847-309-2777
🌐 www.highperformanceacademics.com
—Dr. Jill | High Performance Academics

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