Frequently Asked Questions
What is an admissions consultant?
An admissions consultant is an expert who helps students and their families navigate the complex process of applying to college, graduate school, or professional programs. Admissions consultants provide personalized guidance on everything from selecting schools to preparing application materials, and they offer insight into the admissions process at top institutions.
Why should I hire Admissions Thinker ?
At Admissions Thinker, we offer a wealth of experience and expertise that can help you maximize your chances of getting accepted to the schools of your choice. We can help you identify the best-fit schools for your academic and personal goals, develop a strong application strategy, and craft compelling application materials that showcase your strengths and unique qualities. Applying to colleges can be very stressful and to have an independent and objective coach to help the family and student get on the same page and help them navigate this complex process allows for a smooth and even joyful experience.
What services do admissions consultants typically offer?
Admissions Thinker offers a range of services that can be tailored to the specific needs of each student. Some of the most common services include school selection and research, application strategy and planning, essay coaching and resume editing, interview coaching, waitlist and deferral assistance, and summer planning which may include passion projects, career exploration, internships, volunteer work, or research.
How much do you charge?
Investing in college is not cheap. It's important to make an informed decision when making such an important and costly decision. Investing in a good consultant is a small price to pay to ensure you have made the right investment in your child's education. Our fees vary depending on the level of service provided. In some cases, we charge an hourly rate, while in other cases we charge a flat fee for a package of services. We encourage you to set up a free consultation with us to better understand what services we can offer you and explore if these fit within your budget.
How do I find a reputable admissions consultant?
There are many resources available for finding reputable admissions consultants who are certified from reputable programs like that at UC Irvine and UCLA, including professional associations such as Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), online directories, and referrals from friends, family, or even school counselors. It is important to research potential consultants thoroughly and ask for references before committing to their services. Admissions Thinker Founder and Principal Consultant has a certificate in Independent Educational Consulting from UC Irvine and is happy to furnish references from past clients upon request.
When should I start working with an admissions consultant?
It is never too early to start working with an admissions consultant. Many consultants work with students as early as middle school to help them develop a plan for high school coursework and extracurricular activities that will position them for success in the college admissions process. For high school students, it is recommended to begin working with a consultant at least a year before the application deadline to allow sufficient time for planning and preparation. At Admissions Thinker, the majority of my students start in the Spring of Grade 10, about 18 months before applying to colleges.
Can an admissions consultant guarantee admission to my preferred school?
No reputable admissions consultant can guarantee admission to any school. The admissions process is complex and competitive, and ultimately the decision rests with the admissions committee. However, a good admissions consultant can help you maximize your chances of acceptance by guiding you through the process and helping you present yourself in the best possible light. We at Admissions Thinker have helped dozens of students over the last 10 years get into the top 50 'great fit' colleges.
Can an Admissions Thinker consultant help with graduate school admissions as well?
Yes, Admissions Thinker consultants are experienced and well-equipped to provide support for graduate school admissions. We specialize in guiding students through the complex process of applying to master's or Ph.D. programs. Our team has a deep understanding of the unique requirements and expectations of graduate admissions committees.
Can an admissions consultant help international students with financial aid and scholarships?
Yes, we can help with scholarship applications and strategies to help secure funding from colleges. We can provide guidance on the types of aid available and help students maximize their chances of receiving funding.