<p>But one caveat - my college is not on the common app but has seen applications explode by 50% over the last decade. Even in a bad economy. So imagine - those schools that are on the Common App are seeing an equally large explosion and can cherry pick the students they want. That means an awful lot of students applying to schools they don’t plan to attend. But those same students are getting merit aid because the college has no way of knowing they’re a “back-up” That includes the colleges that used to be full-ride “safeties.”</p>
<p>Hence a lot of qualified students were left with no options this year.</p>
<p>It is imperative to apply to a wide range of schools. Budget extra for the costs of CSS and test score submissions. Then focus on each application and essay if your life depended on it. Those supplements when all other things are equal (grades/scores) are what is tipping the scale. I interview students who often think they know what we’re looking for and leave out the things that could have distinguished them. That year - love of bowling (or birdwatching, or …etc.) could have been the interesting aspect that put an application in the “must admit” pile. Just make sure it’s a long term passionate pursuit. Short term activities (if there are too many of them) look simply like resume padding.</p>
<p>And interview and visit the schools if you can. Showing interest beyond an internet search may also help.</p>