This page is licensed under Creative Commons under Attribution 4.0 International. Anyone can share content from this page, with attribution and link to College MatchPoint requested.
November 5th Webinar at 7:00 pm CST
Inside Stanford Admissions: How Applications Are Really Read
What really happens inside a top-tier admissions office? Join ESM Prep Managing Director Dr. Carley Nuzzo for an exclusive conversation with Rielly Wieners, ESM College Matchpoint Coach and former Assistant Director of Admission at Stanford University. Drawing directly from her experience evaluating thousands of applications in one of the nation’s most competitive applicant pools, Rielly will offer an insider’s look at how elite admissions decisions are actually made.
During this session, you’ll discover how admissions officers distinguish among highly qualified applicants, why student context and opportunities matter so much, and how academics, essays, activities, and recommendations fit together. Rielly will also demystify the process by breaking down the most common misconceptions families have about highly selective admissions, giving you clear, actionable clarity for your student's journey.
Can't join us live? Register anyway, and we’ll send a full recording directly to your inbox following the event.
DOWNLOAD OUR GUIDE TO
Applying to the University of California System
Applying to the renowned University of California (UC) system can feel daunting. This guide provides strategies for navigating the system's requirements, selecting campuses and majors, and crafting a compelling application. With details on the 9 UC campuses, A-G course requirements, and holistic review process, this resource equips students to maximize their chances of admission to their dream UC school.
We have a unique approach at College MatchPoint. It all begins and ends with our ultimate goal: for our students to thrive in their selected college.
The college application process can feel overwhelming, no matter how strong the student. But at College MatchPoint, we believe it should be organized, personal, and even fun, and we provide a framework that reduces the stress throughout the journey.
You might also be interested in these resources!
Does the PSAT matter for college admissions? Learn whether colleges see PSAT scores, how National Merit fits in, and what the test can tell you.
Key Takeaways Colleges across the country are increasing their efforts to recruit Texas students. Some out-of-state universities may offer attractive financial incentives to Texas applicants. Looking beyond the most familiar Texas schools could open up more options for admission, affordability, and fit.
What does UT Austin look for in extracurriculars? Learn how depth, initiative, impact, and fit to major can strengthen your student's profile.
Every admissions cycle produces headlines. The numbers underneath tell a more useful story. Here are five numbers from the cycle that just closed—and what they mean for families heading into this fall.
Every September, the new U.S. News rankings arrive and families treat them like a verdict. A school climbs five spots and parents take notice. A school slips seven and families quietly cross it off the list. The trap is believing those numbers tell you what your student's experience will actually be. They don't. With the next rankings arriving this month, here's what families should understand before letting a number influence a college list.
Your student will take the PSAT sometime in October, and almost everything you remember about this test has changed.