College Application: Debunking 3 Myths

With the start of each new year, students and parents approach the college admissions process with renewed energy. New calendars, new goals, and a sense of urgency often fuel motivation, but also misconceptions. While understandable, they can detract from what’s truly important during this critical period. Here are three common college admissions myths we’ve encountered:

Myth #1: “We’ll fix everything in Grade 12.”

This is one of the most persistent and harmful assumptions in college planning. Many students believe that Grade 12 (Year 13) is when colleges really start paying attention, and that there will be time later to strengthen grades, leadership, or activities.

In reality, colleges evaluate students based on the path they have already established. By the time Grade 12 (Year 13) begins, much of a student’s academic record, academic rigor, and extracurricular activities are  already in place. These last two semesters are primarily about maintaining momentum and presenting a clear story – not inventing a profile.

What to Do: Grade 11 is the most influential stretch of the entire admissions process. This is when students can demonstrate academic growth, step into leadership roles, and clarify their interests. The work done now shapes how compelling the final application will be. This period is the time to focus your profile and efforts for the applications that will be sent out in a few months. Preparation is key in developing a story that feels authentic and shows continuity. 

Myth #2: “More activities mean a stronger application.”

High school students often think that the best and strongest strategy is to participate in as many activities as possible: more clubs, more volunteer hours, more short-term projects. While being involved is important, admissions officers are not impressed by a long activity list without substance or context. When it comes to student activities, colleges are looking for depth and consistency. They want to see how a student has grown within an activity, what responsibility they have taken on, and how their involvement reflects genuine interest.

What to Do: The best practice is to focus on a few, well-developed activities that show progression over the high school years. Rising from being a mere participant to taking on a leadership role is a great example of this. These quality endeavors are far more powerful on an application than more unrelated commitments. Students should find things they are passionate about and spend the time to dive deep.

Myth #3: “If a school has a high acceptance rate, it’s a safe choice.”

Acceptance rates are often misunderstood. A university’s overall acceptance rate does not tell the full story. Admission chances can vary significantly by major, application type, applicant pool, and residency status. For example, a school with an overall 60 percent acceptance rate may be far more selective for certain programs or international applicants. Additionally,  a university’s institutional  goals can vary year by year, and with that so can acceptance rates. 

At many institutions, international students are reviewed in a separate and more competitive pool. Factors such as visa considerations, financial aid availability, and curriculum differences can all affect admission chances. This means a school that appears safe for a domestic applicant may not be equally safe for a student applying from abroad. Conversely, some universities seek more international students, boosting admissions chances. 

What to Do: Colleges are increasingly focused on admitting students who are a strong academic and personal fit for their programs. This includes alignment with intended majors, evidence of genuine interest, and thoughtful engagement with the institution’s offerings. A true safety school is one where the student’s academic profile is clearly above the typical admitted rate, and their interests match with the institution’s. 

Our admissions counselors can help clarify the acceptance rates for early decision, early action, and regular decision at colleges and universities. To map out an admissions strategy and create a balanced list of reach, target, and safety schools, please contact info@ivyoptions.com.