Lightening Round Admissions FAQ
Very short answers only edition
It is nearly August, which means that many colleges and universities have already opened or just are just about to open their applications for the next round of the admissions cycle1. To celebrate, let’s do a rapid-fire short answers only FAQ about all some things about the upcoming admissions season!
Q: A school has their own application but also accepts Common App. Does it matter which one I use?
A: Nope! Do whichever is faster/easier for you.
Q: I’m thinking about applying to 20 schools. Is that too many?
A: Yes. Most students apply to less than 10, with lots of students in the four to six school range. Given that the average application cost is at or above $50, that adds up quickly and are there really 20 schools you’ve done deep enough research on to know that you’d actually want to go there?
Q. I’m interested in a highly selective school, should I apply early decision?
A: No, early decision is problematic and benefits the college more than it benefits you. Go early action instead.
Q: Some schools are test optional, should I submit a test score anyways?
A. It depends. If your scores are at or above the median score for the school (check that here, search for the school and then click on the admissions tab), then probably yes.
Q. The school doesn’t require a letter of recommendation. Should I send one anyways?
A: No.
Q. When can we fill out the FAFSA?
A: It’s supposed to open on October 1, 2025.
Q: Will it really open on October 1, 2025?
A: Probably?
Q: What if I don’t know which school I really want to go to yet?
A: Don’t worry about it! This isn’t finding your soul mate or getting a facial tattoo… you don’t have to be totally sure at this stage. Applying is still information gathering and it’s honestly better not to fall in love until you see financial aid offers anyways.
Q: If a really selective school sent me brochures, does that mean I have a good shot of getting in?
A. Sadly, no. Getting mail from the Harvards and Yales of the world can be flattering but “recruiting to deny” is a real thing. They’ll always send out brochures to WAY more students than they’ll be able to admit.
Q: Should I visit every school I apply to?
A: If you can, yes. But don’t sweat it too much if you don’t have the time or money to do so. Do try to prioritize visiting a school before you make a final decision to go there though.
Q: My best friend/boyfriend/twin is applying to school X, should I apply there too?
A: If they weren’t applying to School X, would you want to go there? That’s your answer.
Q: Why is my mom being so weird all the time? What’s with all the hugging?
A: BE NICE TO YOUR MOTHER, THIS IS VERY STRESSFUL AND WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND YOU ARE OUR BABY AND YOU ARE LEAVING US
Q: Is it going to be okay?
A: Yep. You’ll get in where you get in and you’ll probably end up happy to be there. Your mom will be okay too.
My kid did his first college application last week and it felt a little more emotional than I expected, tbh