Bad data and conflicting recommendations can make it difficult for students to make good decisions about college admissions.
For that reason—and to have a little fun, I created this list of college admissions myths and realities.
Myth or Reality?
Top Grades and Test Scores Will Get You Into at Least One Ivy League School MYTH
Good Schools Are Now So Selective I Won’t Get Accepted at Any of Them MYTH
To Have a Chance at an Elite College, I Must Apply Early Decision MYTH
Legacies Are Often Denied Acceptance REALITY
Forbes Rankings Are More Accurate Than U.S. News MYTH
Parents and Students Should Assess a College’s Greek Life Together REALITY
Attending a Private College Farther From Home Can Save Money REALITY
There is no Reason to Submit the FAFSA If Your Family is High Income MYTH
Most Merit Scholarship Awards Do Not Require a Separate Application or Essay REALITY
Financial Aid Practices Vary Widely from College to College and from Year to Year REALITY
First Impressions On a Campus Visit Can Be Misleading REALITY
I Should Only Apply to Colleges that I Have Visited MYTH
Large Universities Offer More Opportunities Than Small Colleges MYTH
Any Student is More Likely to Succeed in College if the Classes Are Small MYTH
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