Busting the Top 5 College Admissions Myths You Must Know

The college admissions world is buzzing with headlines, TikTok's, and “insider tips.” But in between the facts, a whole lot of fiction is making the rounds and these myths could derail your application strategy.

Let us set the record straight on five big myths we have heard far too often this year.

Myth #1: Ivy League Admissions Are Easier This Year

The Rumor: With smaller high school graduating classes and a potential 40% drop in international applicants, it will be easier to get into the Ivies.

The Reality: Yes, U.S. Census projections show a dip in the number of college-aged students for the Class of 2026, and global events have reduced international applications at some schools and most Ivies now require test scores again, which may shrink the applicant pool further. However, this does not mean a wide-open door. The most elite schools will still be looking for the very best candidates with top academics, meaningful extracurricular achievements, and essays that show exceptional fit. While there may be fewer applicants overall, the percentage of highly qualified contenders remains extremely high. Translation: the competition is still fierce.

Myth #2: Grades and Test Scores Don’t Matter as Much as You Think

The Rumor: Since some schools are test-optional, academics no longer make or break your application. 

The Reality: Admissions officers still want proof you can handle college-level work. GPA, course rigor, and strong test scores (if you submit them) are critical data points. Without them, other parts of your application have to work even harder to prove your readiness. Test-optional doesn’t mean “test-ignored."

Myth #3: Admissions at Some Schools Are Completely Automated

The Rumor: You just upload your application, and a computer decides your fate before any human sees it.

The Reality: While no college has fully replaced humans with algorithms, large research universities and other schools with historically large applicant pools have used databases for years to sort and flag applicants based on objective data like GPA, rigor, and test scores. This helps manage volume and ensures candidates meet certain academic thresholds before moving forward. But after that initial screening, most applications still go through human review, particularly for essays, recommendation letters, and contextual factors that software can’t interpret. At selective schools, committees can spend hours debating a single applicant’s case.

Myth #4: College Visits Are Not Important

The Rumor: Virtual tours have made campus visits irrelevant. 

The Reality: College visits are one of the best ways to decide if a college will meet your priorities and be a good fit for you. Schools still value “demonstrated interest”, particularly,  mid-sized private colleges and liberal arts schools. In-person visits can give you an edge by showing genuine engagement and an opportunity to meet admissions and faculty, audit a class or meet current students. 

Myth #5: A “High-Low” List Works to Your Advantage

The Rumor: The best strategy is to apply to a few uber “reach” schools, to take your shot and a couple safety schools, but no real target schools. 

The Reality: This approach leaves you with a risky gap. Strong-fit “target” schools often provide the best admissions odds and scholarship opportunities. If you only apply to extremes, you might get into your safeties but miss out on schools that are both academically challenging and financially generous. A balanced college list with 1-2 reaches, 3-4 strong targets and 1-3 safety schools is your best bet. Every school on your list should be a college you can see yourself attending, that is why those visits are important!

Final Thoughts

Admissions isn’t about finding shortcuts, it’s about building a college list and strategy that reflects your academic strengths, ambition and goals. Do not let myths guide your application choices. Essential College Coaches can help you create a strong, authentic and persuasive admissions package that will maximize your college choices.