College Admissions Trends This Cycle: What Families Should Know

mneushul • January 22, 2026

Each admissions cycle brings new questions, shifting dynamics, and a fair amount of uncertainty. This year is no exception. As colleges and universities continue to adjust to post-pandemic realities, families are noticing changes in application behavior, competitiveness, and expectations.

Here are several key trends I am seeing this cycle, along with what they mean for students and parents navigating the process.

More Students Are Applying to More Colleges

One of the clearest trends this year is that students are applying to more colleges than ever before. In many cases, this is driven by uncertainty. With highly selective colleges receiving record numbers of applications in recent years, students are trying to keep more options open.

While applying to a broader range of schools can make sense, especially in a competitive environment, it also makes it more important to be intentional. A well-constructed list that includes likely, target, and reach schools helps students stay grounded and focused throughout the process, rather than overwhelmed by volume alone.

International Applications Are Down

Another notable shift this cycle is a decline in international applications at many colleges. Factors such as visa challenges, global economic pressures, and increased opportunities outside the United States have all contributed to this change.

For domestic applicants, this can slightly alter the composition of applicant pools at some institutions. That said, colleges still shape their classes carefully based on institutional priorities, so this trend should be viewed as one part of a much larger picture rather than a guarantee of outcomes.

More Students Are Submitting Test Scores

After several years of test-optional policies, more students are choosing to submit ACT or SAT scores this cycle. With testing access returning to normal and clearer guidance from colleges about how scores are used, many students see testing as a way to add strength and flexibility to their applications.

Test-optional policies remain in place at many schools, but having a strong score available allows students to make strategic decisions about when submission is beneficial. Preparing for and taking the ACT or SAT gives students more options, even if they ultimately decide not to submit scores everywhere.

Colleges Are Paying Close Attention to Enrollment Patterns

Colleges are also navigating uncertainty. Predicting how many admitted students will enroll has become more complex, which means schools are paying closer attention to application timing, early decision programs, and demonstrated interest.

For families, this reinforces the importance of authentic engagement. Visiting campuses when possible, attending information sessions, and applying thoughtfully can all help students better understand fit while also signaling genuine interest.

Fit and Well-Being Matter More Than Ever

Beyond academics and outcomes, many students are prioritizing campus culture, support systems, and overall well-being. Families are asking important questions about mental health resources, advising, and community, and students are paying closer attention to where they feel they can truly thrive.

This focus on fit is a healthy shift. College is not just an academic decision, but a personal and developmental one as well.

Perspective Is Essential

With all of these trends combined, it is important to remember a few grounding truths.

There is no single perfect college or university. Students can thrive at many different institutions, often in ways they could not have predicted at the start of the process. Growth, opportunity, and success are shaped far more by engagement and mindset than by any one school name.

It is also essential to recognize that some factors in admissions are beyond a student’s control. Institutional priorities, shifting applicant pools, and enrollment needs vary from year to year. What students can control is how they prepare, how they reflect on their experiences, and how thoughtfully they approach their choices.

Moving Forward With Confidence

The most successful students approach this process with preparation, perspective, and flexibility. A balanced college list, thoughtful testing strategy, and focus on fit allow families to move through the admissions journey with confidence rather than fear.

While the landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains constant. When students take the time to understand themselves and families focus on what truly matters, the process becomes not just manageable, but meaningful.

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Unlocking your potential: College options for B students

By mneushul • February 17, 2026

With so many discussions about how competitive it is to get into college, many students wonder if their grades are good enough to even attend a four-year school. The question is a valid one, especially for students who have consistently received B grades or even a C during their academic careers. Well, the answer is there are plenty of universities that want you on their campus. In this blog, we’ll discuss the role of B grades in the college acceptance process to help you understand what it takes to get into college. Firstly, it’s important to note that achieving B grades is not necessarily a bad thing. A B grade is considered an above-average mark and shows that you have a good understanding of the subject matter. In fact, many colleges look beyond just the grades and consider other factors such as extracurricular activities, community service, educational background, and other achievements. These factors play a crucial role in determining your admission to college, and B grades may not be as big a factor as you might think. Each college has its own admission criteria, which may include different requirements for GPA, SAT/ACT scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation from teachers who know you may support your application by showing what a hard worker you are and how you might contribute in class. Likewise, a strong ACT or SAT shows your academic potential. I recommend all of my students, take either test during their junior year. College essays are also a chance to give more information about who you are beyond your grades. Furthermore, it’s vital to remember that your B grades do not define your academic potential or your future success. Many successful people never achieved straight A’s in high school, and their hard work, perseverance, and dedication have helped them reach their goals. It’s essential to focus on your strengths, interests, and passion for your chosen program and strive to showcase your potential in every aspect of the application process. Colleges will look at your activities in addition to your grades and look favorably at a part-time job, sports involvement, or volunteer opportunities you took advantage of. It is never too late to improve your grades. Demonstrating an upward trend in your grades, especially as your classes get more challenging, shows your potential for success. This pattern of improvement shows your ability to adapt, learn, and overcome academic challenges over time, traits that admissions committees value highly. Excelling in your senior year is particularly crucial as it's your most recent academic performance before applying to colleges. If you can show that you've increased your GPA, taken more challenging courses, or made significant strides in areas where you previously struggled, you'll not only prove that you are academically prepared for college, but also that you possess the determination and resilience necessary to succeed in a university setting. In conclusion, although the most selective schools may not be a realistic option, there are plenty of small, mid-size, and large schools that will be perfect for you. The admission criteria for each college vary, and many factors play into the process, including academic achievement, extracurricular activities, community service, essays, and letters of recommendation. B grades are a reflection of your academic performance, but they do not define your potential as a student. So, if you’re a B student, don’t be discouraged. Focus on your strengths, work hard to showcase your potential, and use your application to highlight those strengths. Rest assured that you will find the right school to attend.

What Newport Beach Parents Need to Know About Today’s College Admissions Trends

By mneushul • February 11, 2026

For Newport Beach parents navigating the college admissions process, the landscape can feel very different from even a few years ago. Selectivity is rising, application strategies are shifting, and colleges are using new tools to evaluate students. Understanding these changes can help Newport Beach families make more informed decisions and reduce uncertainty along the way. 1. Applications Are Increasing at Colleges in the South Colleges across the South are experiencing significant growth in...

Beyond the Application: The Hidden Steps of the College Admissions Process

By mneushul • October 14, 2025

Most people think hitting submit on a college application means the hard part is over. But anyone who’s been through the process knows that’s just the beginning. What happens after students submit their applications is often far more complicated; and far less talked about. Between counselor forms, student portals, and endless password resets, the “post-submit” phase can feel like a full-time job. Let’s take a closer look at what really happens next. Step 1: Counselor Submissions and Brag...