<p>you only need a consultant if you dont have an organizational skill set to fill out the applications, etc. If you can figure out by yourself the kinds of tests your child needs to take, essays to write, etc, and the schools to apply to (isnt this past the deadlines)-- save yourself the couple thousand dollars and go on vacation. a great resource is the New York Parents League – join for very little and they will answer your questions online and by phone-- they are a non profit organization, but know all the schools very well</p>