Every year, thousands of students with exceptional grades, high test scores, and impressive résumés are denied admission to Ivy League and highly selective colleges. Families sometimes assume admissions decisions are random. In reality, many students misunderstand what these colleges are truly looking for and what actually makes applicants competitive. At International College Counselors, we have…
Many families believe the college admissions process starts junior year. By then, students take standardized tests, visit campuses, and begin applications. But in reality, some of the most important college admissions decisions for freshmen and sophomores happen much earlier. College planning for freshmen and sophomores is one of the most important—and most overlooked—parts of the…
If your student has been waitlisted, you likely have more questions than answers. In our previous blog, we outlined what to do next and how to approach the waitlist strategically. This follow-up on college waitlist 2026 continues the conversation—addressing the most common questions families have and clarifying what to expect in the weeks and months…
Ivy Day is here. For some families, it will bring celebration. For others, questions and a need for college waitlist strategy 2026. And it’s not just the Ivies, students are receiving decisions from colleges across the country, each one shaping what comes next. But behind every decision—yes, no, or waitlist—is something far more important than…