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35 Best College Admissions Con­sul­tants 2024 Best College Admissions Consulting Services

Managing Editor
B.A.
Carrie Sealey-Morris has covered bootcamps, careers, and higher education for College Consensus since 2017. Carrie is a graduate of the University of New Mexico where she earned a B.A. in American Studies. 
Founder/Senior Editor
B.A., M.Div.
Jeremy Alder has spent over a decade researching and writing about higher education to provided students with the information they need to achieve their goals. He has significant personal experience with career transitions, working as a freelance writer and editor, non-profit director, community organizer, preacher, teacher, retail manager, and carpenter prior to founding College Consensus. Homeschooled from the second grade, Jeremy is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin (B.A., Philosophy) and Duke University Divinity School (M.Div.). He currently lives in North Carolina with his wife, five kids, and a Labradoodle named Hank.
BEST college admission consultants

The best admissions consultant programs offer practical tools that assist students in choosing the right career path. A college admissions consultant’s job is to help students evaluate their career goals and then match them to a degree program that will provide them with the skills and abilities they will need to reach their goals.

Many students enroll in generic degree programs because they aren’t quite sure what career they want. Some start school and then explore their options once they have taken a few courses. It isn’t until they have gotten a taste of what their degree program is really like that they make the final decision concerning their final career choice.

Who is Using College Admissions Consultants?

Many parents might think college admissions advisors are just for the wealthy, or for super-driven students who want to get in to an Ivy League school or one of the most prestigious research institutions. But, high-profile scandals at elite schools notwithstanding, that’s not at all the case.

College admissions are competitive, the process can be long and confusing, and many parents don’t know how to get their kids into college. This is especially true for parents who didn’t go to college themselves. That’s why the best college admissions consultants offer a range of pricing options and services, from essay help to a complete package. So, parents and students have a lot of possibilities.


Featured College Admission ConsultantsPrinceton ReviewAdmissionadoPrepScholarPrep Expert
Full-Service Package Price$3,499$5,400$6,895$13,999
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NOTE: The college admissions counseling programs featured here are presented in alphabetical order. Interested in an MBA? See our list of the Best MBA Admissions Consulting Firms.

accepted What makes Accepted one of the best admissions consultants for aspiring college students? Accepted offers students an opportunity to work with the best in the business. Consultants have many years of experience as former college admissions officers and provide valuable insight through the admissions process. You will receive the skills and resources you need to submit an application that is both strong and effective when it comes to getting you noticed.

Personalized attention from these top college admissions consultants every step of the way ensures you have everything you need to move forward with your education. Each consultant is highly skilled in identifying untapped potential and will help you get on the right path. The complete college application package includes school choice evaluation, essay strategy and editing, resume critique, application review, waitlist support, and also decision counseling.

  • Services: College Admissions, Grad School Admissions, MBA Admissions, Med School Admissions, Law School Admissions
  • Price: $8,350 for Gold Package, $15,260 for Platinum Package
  • Free Consultation: yes, initial consultation is free
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Harvard, Yale, NYU, Cornell, Brown, and Johns Hopkins
  • Member: Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants (AIGAC)

admissionado The experienced college admissions consultants at Admissionado focus on a student’s local potential as well as their stretch potential. As one of America’s best admissions consultants, Admissionado maximizes the student’s ability to get ahead in the application process. From creating powerful resumes to presenting themselves in a professional manner, Admissionado gives students every opportunity to be able to attend the university of their choice.

The top college admissions consultants at Admissionado give students the best chance at being accepted by the university they feel will provide support for their education. Telling their stories in the best way possible is the key to gaining access to the highest quality education.

  • Services: College Counseling, Application Consulting, MBA Admissions Consulting
  • Price: starting at $1,650
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: team based approach
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Stanford, UT Austin, and Middlebury College

admit advantageThe customized admissions strategy at Admit Advantage is a highly tailored approach to the college application process. Admit Advantage provides individualized services such as comprehensive advising, college essay editing, resume and interview preparation, and more. Their services ensure students stand out from other applicants with the best possible chance for success. They also offer mentoring services to help students through the college and admissions process. Admit Advantage has helped thousands of students gain admission to some of the most selective universities in the world.

  • Services: College Counseling
  • Price: not published on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: team based approach
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to ivy league colleges Stanford, Harvard, and Yale.

Francine E. Block, President of American College Admissions Consultants, has over 25 years of experience. A former admissions officer for the University of Vermont, she is an expert at helping students and families navigate the college admissions maze. And, American College Admissions Consultants has a proven track record of helping clients get into their dream schools.

  • Services: College Placement Assistance, Personal Assessment
  • Price: not published on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to New York University, University of Michigan, Boston University
  • Membership: American Institute of Certified Educational Planners (AICEP), National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)

anna iveyAnna Ivey pairs students with the best admissions consultants that meet their needs. They are able to help students accentuate their positives so they can put their best foot forward. Students are able to hone their talents and maximize their potential on many different levels. They help you put together a powerful application that highlights your academic achievements.

Additionally, Anna Ivey’s experienced admissions consultants assist students in enhancing their writing skills when it comes to producing an essay that portrays the vision they have for their future. With the guidance of an admissions consultant, students are able to dramatically increase their chances of getting into the college of their choice.

  • Services: College Admissions, Law School Admissions, Speaking Engagements
  • Price: not available on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

bright horizons coachBright Horizons College Coach pairs the best admissions consultants with students who could benefit most from their services. When students apply to colleges and universities, they will need to make themselves as noticeable as possible to increase their chances of approval. Bright Horizons College Coach accomplishes this in several ways. Helping students fill out their admissions applications is just the first step.

Another game-changer for students is writing their admissions essays. With competition being fierce, students need to continually find ways to make themselves stand out above their peers. A good admissions consultant, from Bright Horizons College Coach, can make that happen. Bright Horizons admissions coaches give students what they need to succeed.

  • Services: College Admissions, Medical School Admissions, Transfer Admissions
  • Price: not available on the Bright Horizons College Coach website
  • Consulting Model: individual

c2 educationC2 Education hires only the best admissions consultants to guide students through the application and enrollment process. Students are taught how to answer questions professionally and stay focused on what is important. Admissions consultants assist them in writing stellar admissions essays that show their commitment to succeeding in following their career path.

Admissions consultants at C2 help students choose the right courses to challenge and inspire them. They also help students identify extracurricular activities that highlight their talents, passion for their career, and commitment to improving their lives on every level. With the right essay and application answers, students can increase their chances of approval dramatically.

  • Services: College Admissions, High School Tutoring, Exam Prep
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Member: National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)

College Wise college wiseis a resource students can use to improve their chances of being admitted to the college of their choice. The best admissions consultants get to know each student’s goals and how committed they are to reaching them. With over 70 experts at their disposal, students are able to build a stronger resume and portray themselves in a much better light than if they had tried to move forward through the application process on their own.

At College Wise, students overcome the obstacles many students may face when they start the application process. Many students are at risk of being denied because they don’t have the skills or abilities to present themselves in a professional manner.

  • Services: College Admissions Counseling, Tutoring, Test Prep
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: yes, initial consultation is free
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to UCLA, University of Edinburgh, Tufts University

college zoomCollege Zoom provides the best admissions consultants for students who need a little extra help in sprucing up their college applications and essays. Students receive one-on-one counseling that allows them to get to know their consultants. The college admissions application and essay can be more daunting than many people expect. This is why having the best admissions consultants is so important.

Students receive the counseling they need that allows them to accentuate their potential and give themselves the boost they need to breeze through the college enrollment process. The chances of being accepted by the college of their choosing are much higher if the student works with an admissions consultant.

  • Services: College Admissions, Transfer Counseling
  • Price: comprehensive packages starting at $3,000
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Harvard, Yale, UCLA

command edCommand Education is a leading admissions counseling group that offers the best admissions consultants to students who need a little assistance when it comes to improving their chances of being admitted into the college or university of their choice. Admission consultants at Command Education offer personalized guidance to help students navigate the college admissions process. Different package options are offered that allow students to get the assistance that is right for them. They are able to put together an application and enrollment essay that will showcase their strengths and potential.

Command Education’s admissions consultants learn everything they can about the student. The one-on-one counseling allows students to produce quality enrollment essays and complete the application so that all of their strengths and abilities are highlighted, showing their full potential.

  • Services: College Admissions, SAT and ACT Test Prep Services
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: yes, initial consultation is free
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Member: National Association of College Admissions Counseling (NACAC)

crimson educationCrimson Education gives students an opportunity to increase their odds of approval to both United States and United Kingdom colleges and universities. The best admissions consultants offer individualized support when it comes to pursuing the degree program of their choice and reaching the career goals they have set for themselves. With the right counseling, students can increase their chances of being accepted to a college they can be proud of.

Admissions consultants at Crimson Education are able to improve a student’s chances of acceptance by helping them overcome common challenges many students face during the enrollment process. Programs offer academic support, full application strategy, and comprehensive application essay support. Additionally, students are taught how to use extracurricular activities to their fullest advantage as well as choose the right classes to keep them challenged and focused on the future.

  • Services: College Admissions, College Sport Recruitment, Graduate School Applications
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

DC College CounselingThe Northern Virginia-based college consulting firm, DC College Counseling. It was founded by Colleen Ganjian, a former undergraduate admissions officer and a well-known educational consultant. DC College Counseling offers a wide range of services including college search, application assistance, financial aid planning, securing financial aid, and career counseling. They offer comprehensive packages for top tier college admissions, but also have basic plans.

  • Services: college admissions counselors
  • Price: basic plan $10,000
  • Free Consultation: website does not say
  • Consulting Model: individual

elite advantageElite Advantage Prep sees each student as a unique individual with specific talents and skills. The best admissions consultants are able to get to know a student, identify their skills and abilities, and then teach them how to showcase their potential. This includes the use of extracurricular activities and the choice of classes that will help them advance toward their degree.

An admissions consultant often works with high school students to allow them the opportunity to add extracurricular activities and courses that will make them more appealing to the college of their choice. Including these things and improving their ability to tell their story through their admissions essay and application for admission to the university or college.

  • Services: General Consulting, College List Development, Academic and Activity Resume Planning, Essay Review
  • Price: starting at $350 for a la carte services, application packages start at $3,000
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Member: member of NJACAC and an associate member of IECA

empowerlyEmpowerly works with students to make sure that the college application process goes smoothly. Filling out a college admission application and writing the admissions essay can be daunting tasks. The best admissions consultants are available to the students who need assistance in showcasing their potential and their skills. This will increase the chances of being accepted by the college or university of their choice.

Consultants at Empowerly get to know each student. They provide them with the help they need to create the most proficient and accurate application and essay possible. Students can begin using the counseling services while they are still in high school. Which gives them the advantage of building a more powerful resume and including more activities that may improve the odds of being accepted to their favorite school.

  • Services: College Admissions Counseling, Financial Planning Assistance, Essay Editing
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

flex college prepFlex College Prep focuses on helping students move through the college application and enrollment process. The best admissions consultants not only offer application and essay prep, they also offer tutoring and test prep that will help the student achieve higher grades as they move toward earning their high school diploma. Academic enrichment is also provided to ensure students have the extracurricular activities that are most beneficial to them and the degree program they wish to pursue.

Additionally, Flex College Prep uses the latest technology to allow admissions consultants the tools they need to guide the student through the application process. Each student is unique and requires that their own ambitions and passions be taken into consideration. The top college admission consultants at Flex regularly take the real SAT and ACT, so they are always up-to-date on test changes.

  • Services: College Admissions Services, Test Prep
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

hs2 academyThe HS2 Academy offers customized college planning tools that students can rely on to help them improve their odds of acceptance into their chosen university or school. The best admissions consultants work hand in hand with the student to help them create a resume that truly represents who they are and what they want to accomplish. Students are guided through the process at a much earlier starting point and given every opportunity to build their resumes and write an application essay that will dramatically improve their chances of being accepted.

Admissions consultants of HS2 Academy give students the confidence they need to apply to the university of their choice with confidence. Counseling sessions can include tutoring, test prep, essay prep, and the creation of a complete and thorough resume. With the odds being more for denial than acceptance, students can rely on the academy to provide them with every possible advantage.

  • Services: College Counseling, Standardized Test Preparation ( SAT/ACT/PSAT/AP ), and one-on-one tutoring in class subjects
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Member: some counselors are members of the National Association for College Admission Counseling

iluminServices at Illumin Education  include both college admissions consulting and life coaching. This is designed to give students the advantage they need to improve their odds of being accepted by the college or university of their choice. The best admissions consultants offer guidance during the application process and while writing their admissions essays. Students begin working with their consultant many times while they are still in high school.

By starting early, students gain the best advantage possible of being able to attend the college of their choice. This means taking the right courses that will direct them towards their specific career choice. It also includes taking part in extracurricular activities that will show positive social skills and a commitment to the community. It allows students to build a much stronger resume.

  • Services: College Admissions Counseling, Life Coaching
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to MIT, Carnegie Mellon University, Dartmouth University

ingenius prepThe college admissions counselors at InGenius Prep give students the extra boost they need to portray themselves in the best possible light. This can mean improving test scores and taking classes in high school that are more challenging and in direct line with their potential career goals. Students are given the opportunity to accentuate their skills and provide a positive focus on what they have to offer as both a student and a professional.

The best admissions consultants offer guidance on how to create a stellar resume and powerful admissions essay. Each student works hand in hand with a consultant to create everything they need to show how committed they are at succeeding in school and achieving their goals. InGenius Prep works hard to ensure that each student it works with is able to get accepted by the college of their choice.

  • Services: College Admissions, Grad School Admissions, Business School Admissions, Medical School Admissions, Private High School Admissions, Career Counseling
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to University of Chicago, Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University
  • Member: National Association for College Admission Counseling

ivy coachIvy Coach allows students to gain an advantage when they start applying to the colleges they are interested in attending. This company specializes in students seeking admission to Ivy League colleges and other highly selective universities. With so many more students applying to colleges than ever before, the competition is fierce. Students must be able to show that they have the qualifications and character to meet the expectations of the school they are applying to. By working with the best admissions consultants, students are able to improve their odds of being accepted at their chosen school.

Better test scores, a detailed resume, and a well-written admissions essay are all key factors for being accepted by the schools you apply to. You must be able to portray both your commitment and passion for learning in such a way that you are able to convince the school that you will be an asset to their programs and advance your career after graduation.

  • Services: College Admissions Counseling, Graduate School Admissions Counseling
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual and team
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Columbia University, Princeton University, University of Pennsylvania
  • Member: National Association for College Admission Counseling

ivy wiseIvy Wise provides students with many of the necessary tools they can rely on to dramatically improve their odds of being accepted by their school of choice. Its college admissions counselors teach students how to improve their test scores and create a strong resume are powerful tools that will increase the odds of being accepted by the schools the student is most interested in. Over 90% of students who use Ivy Wise are accepted by the school they have chosen to attend.

The best admissions consultants go to great lengths to ensure that each student has what they need to be considered by the school or schools they are most interested in attending. Students are given valuable resources they can use to improve their overall chances of being accepted by the college they want to go to. The benefits each student receives will not only improve their chances of being accepted, they will also boost their ability to get any scholarships they may apply for.

  • Services: College Admissions Consulting Services for universities in the US, UK, and Canada
  • Price: not published
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: team based
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Amherst College, Brown University, Washington University in St. Louis
  • Member: National Association for College Admission Counseling

marks edMarks Education offers a variety of services to help students succeed in being accepted to their favorite university or college. Tutoring and test prep will help to improve both their grades as well as their test scores. Students are taught how to build a solid resume and write an admissions essay that will allow them to show their true potential and portray them as a valuable asset to the school.

The best admissions consultants are able to provide much-needed counseling to high school students who want to improve their chances of attending the school of their choice. Consultants can help students choose classes that will help them improve their chances of being accepted. By encouraging the student to explore extracurricular activities that will broaden their horizons, the consultants are able to move ahead when it comes to preparing for college.

  • Services: College Educational Planning Services, Graduate School Educational Planning
  • Price: $4,500 for Fundamentals Package
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Pepperdine University, Drexel University, Rice University

menlo coachingMenlo Coaching is well-known for providing students with the assistance they need to prove their scholastic ability as well as their commitment to succeed. Students are counseled by the best admissions consultants in the business and given the advice they need to become stronger, more well-rounded individuals both in and out of the classroom.

Students receive the tutoring they need to improve their grades and score higher on placement tests. In order to beat out the competition, students must be able to prove that they have the passion and commitment to put their studies first. They must be able to tell their story convincingly enough to show the school what they are made of and what they want to do with their lives.

  • Services: College Admissions, Professional MBA admissions consulting for business schools
  • Price: not available
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Bowdoin College, UCLA

midwest college consultingMidwest College Consulting is a leader in its field when it comes to helping students achieve their academic goals. They are taught how to showcase themselves, highlighting their achievements and focusing on finding where they fit the best. Students are taught how to set their priorities and begin to work towards building a solid career path. This involves being accepted by the university or college of their choice.

The best admissions consultants at Midwest are able to help students find the right classes to help them strengthen their chances of being accepted by the college they most want to attend. Consultants offer advice on how to write a powerful admissions essay that will effectively tell their story and detail their goals for the future.

  • Services: College Admissions
  • Price: not listed
  • Free Consultation: no
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Arizona State University,  Virginia Tech, University of Miami, University of Miami

prepexpertThe experienced college admissions counselors at Prep Expert offer application strategies and guidance to help students follow their dreams of attending the college of their choice. These best admissions consultants offer essay edits and reviews and also help with the planning process when it comes to choosing the right school and degree program that will allow the student to fulfill their career goals.

Prep Expert gives students the academic support they need to get higher scores on their placement tests. Earning higher grades on placement tests not only improves a student’s chances of being accepted by their favorite school, it also helps them when it comes to applying for scholarships and grants they will need to help pay for their tuition.

  • Services: College Admissions, SAT and ACT Tutoring Services
  • Price: comprehensive packages starting at $6,999
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

preporyPrepory is a consulting group that offers students advice and guidance they need to make wise decisions when it comes to choosing the right school and the right degree program. The best admissions consultants are available to guide students through the application and enrollment processes. Counselors are able to help students build effective career strategies that they can use long after they graduate.

Additionally, Prepory offers tutoring services and test prep courses that students can rely on to help them boost their grades and improve their chances of receiving scholarships and grants they apply for. Counselors help students tell their stories so they can highlight their achievements and showcase the career goals they have set for themselves.

  • Services: College Admissions
  • Price: standard hourly rate is $300 and counseling programs start at $4,500
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Member: NACAC

prepscholarTop admissions consultants at PrepScholar guide students through the preparation and application process that students must undertake when they are preparing to enter college. Before they can enroll, however, they must apply and be accepted. The best admissions consultants are able to help students boost their grades and improve their test scores so they have a better chance of being accepted once they apply.

PrepScholar understands what students need to achieve the goals they have set for themselves. This often involves helping them write essays that not only tell their stories but also highlight their achievements. Essays are meant to explore why a student is choosing a certain degree program and what makes them a valuable asset to the school.

  • Services: College Admissions
  • Price: starting at $4,895 for Annual Mentorship Package
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

Princeton Review logoThe Princeton Review offers students sound strategies when it comes to raising their grades and earning higher scores on their placement tests. Earning high standardized test scores not only helps you be accepted by the school of your choice, it also boosts your odds of receiving the scholarships and grants you may have applied for. The best admissions consultants at Princeton Review help you build effective planning strategies that you can rely on throughout college and after graduation.

In order for students to improve their chances of being accepted to the college of their choice, they need to start planning early. This means choosing the right classes and participating in extracurricular activities that help to showcase the student’s natural talents. And college admission consultants at the Princeton Review know students also need to be able to write an essay that tells their story in a compelling and concise manner.

  • Services: College Admissions, Medical School Admissions
  • Price: $3,499 for Ultimate Admissions Package
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: Princeton Review clients are accepted to Columbia University, Georgetown University

Quad EducationThe Quad Education team of tutors and admissions counselors from top-ranking universities are some of the most experienced and talented experts in the field. These experienced college counselors offer comprehensive college preparation programs for students in grades 6 to 12. But also the Quad Education college admissions consultants specialize in admissions to ivy league schools, BS/MD admissions, and BSN program consulting.

  • Services: Tutoring for Standardized Tests, Personalized Admissions Consulting
  • Price: not published on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: team
  • Admissions Experience: Ivy League admissions include Dartmouth College, Cornell University, Yale University. Clients accepted to Art & Design Colleges including the Pratt Institute, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Berklee College of Music
  • Membership: NACAC

shemmassianThe college admissions officers at Shemmassian Academic Counseling offers students every advantage they can rely on to help them get the education they deserve. From effective planning strategies to helping students write powerful admission essays, the best admissions consultants offer guidance that allows them to explore all of their options. They are given the additional tutoring they need to improve their test scores and show their competitive edge.

Shemmassian Academic Counseling gives students an opportunity to apply to their school of choice and have the confidence they need to succeed at every level. The work they do to improve their chances of being accepted by the school of their choice can also help them earn the scholarships they apply for.

  • Services: College Admissions, Medical School Admissions
  • Price: not available on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Yale, MIT, and UCLA

S. Montgomery Admissions ConsultingSarah Montgomery is a former admissions officer at Stanford University and founder of S. Montgomery Admissions Consulting. Her insider knowledge of the admissions process gives students a unique advantage when they apply to top-tier colleges and prestigious universities. Additionally, Montgomery Admissions Consulting offers sliding scale prices for applicants who reflect the mission to support marginalized students.

  • Services: college undergraduate admissions, Law School Consulting
  • Price: sliding scale
  • Free Consultation: website does not say
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to American University, Quinnipiac School of Law, Howard University School of Law

solomon admissions Solomon Admissions Consulting offers the guidance and support students need to get into the colleges they feel are right for them. Through academic counseling, students are able to choose specific courses that will give them a head start on the degrees they need when they start to establish their career path. The best admissions consultants are able to help students write effective admissions college essays to establish themselves as confident and committed to achieving their goals.

Additionally, Solomon Admissions Consulting gives students an opportunity to start planning for their future while they are still in high school. Students are provided with both tutoring and test prep options that will enable them to keep their grades high and their odds for acceptance higher. With the right admissions consultant, students can feel confident that they will have everything they need.

  • Services: College Admissions, Medical School Admissions
  • Price: not available on website
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Princeton University, MIT, UC Berkeley
  • Member: National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)

Spark Admissions · College Consultants Each student a unique and customized plan for success at Spark Admissions academic consulting firm. The earlier a student starts planning for their future, the more likely they are to be accepted by their dream school. Through the entire admissions process, Spark Admissions students have access to tutoring and test prep sessions. The right resources can help them achieve their goals and gain, not only acceptance into the school they have chosen, but also a higher rate of approval when applying for scholarships.

Spark Admissions offer students the resources they need to learn how to communicate their stories in an effective manner. Students are able to share their hopes for the future as well as their achievements and how committed they are to building a solid and strong career path.

  • Services: College Admissions, College Athletic Recruiting, Art, Film & Music School Consulting Services, Students with Learning Differences
  • Price: starting price for 30 hour Package $15,995
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Harvard, University of Virginia, Emory University
  • Member: NACAC

Testive by A-List Education is one of the best resources new students have to ensure they are on the right track when they enroll in a degree program. Students are given access to seminars and access courses that work to prepare them for the admissions process and what they can expect as they start their journey toward the biggest and brightest careers possible.

College admissions coaches at Testive offer help with financial aid, enrollment essays, and creating the perfect resume. Essay writing courses allow students to explore their creative side while the best admissions consultants work with them to make sure they have access to each and every advantage. They also offer advising packages to assist students with the graduate school admissions process.

  • Services: College Admissions, Graduate School Admissions, SAT/ACT Tutoring Services, Grad Entrance Exam Tutoring, Academic Tutoring
  • Price: hourly services are $300 per hour with 10, 20 and 30 hours packages
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual

top tier admissions logoThe best admissions consultants at Top Tier Admissions help students who are looking forward to building a better future for themselves. This admissions process starts with planning their future while they are still in high school. So, consultants help students choose academic courses that are more in line with their chosen career goals. Students are encouraged to add extracurricular activities to their routine that will show their interest in improving themselves and the lives of others.

Top Tier Admissions consultants offer tutoring sessions and test prep that will allow them to improve their grades as well as their chances of earning scholarships that will help them pay for their education. Another benefit associated with admissions consulting is helping students write an admissions essay that will tell their story and show their compassion and commitment to the career they have chosen.

  • Services: College Application Essay Guidance
  • Price: Application and Essay Bundles $6,000 to $14,700
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: individual
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Carnegie Mellon University, George Washington University, US Naval Academy
  • Member: NACAC

College admissions counselors at Varsity Tutors provide students with resources they can use to improve the odds of being accepted by the college of their choice. With Varsity Tutors, students receive the guidance they need to write effective admissions essays and also improve their test scores. When students start planning for their future early, they are able to start building their resume and building a career path that they can build on throughout their time in college.

And Varsity Tutors has the best admissions consultants available to help students plan for their future. Students have access to the tools and resources they need to improve their grades and give themselves the opportunities and challenges they need to succeed on every level when it comes to their careers and personal lives.

  • Services: college undergraduate admissions
  • Price: $4,700 for the Comprehensive Package
  • Free Consultation: yes
  • Consulting Model: team
  • Admissions Experience: clients accepted to Northwestern, Duke, Stanford

What is a College Admissions Consultant?

When students need help applying to universities or colleges and require assistance during the interview or financial aid application process, an admissions consultant may be hired. While high school guidance counselors provide some college application support and advice, most schools need counselors for the express purpose of advising university-bound students through the challenging process as an admissions consultant does. 

The best college admissions consultants take students from the exploratory phase through the multiple application and interview steps and follow up with students as they navigate college acceptances and secure financial aid and scholarships. This degreed professional may work independently or with a firm or an agency. Still, all will be well-versed in the “inside track” information needed to get into a wide variety of colleges and universities successfully.

why use college consultants

What Makes a College Admissions Consultant Worth It?

A college admissions consultant is a great resource for students looking to get accepted into their dream school. These professionals can provide valuable guidance and assistance throughout the entire admissions process, from choosing a school, applying to schools, preparing for standardized tests, securing financing for college, and more.

Each student’s situation is unique and as such, a college admissions consultant can provide tailored advice that’s beneficial to the student’s specific circumstances. Additionally, college admissions consultants can also provide behind-the-scenes insights into the colleges’ admissions processes, popular majors, course requirements and much more. Ultimately, a college admissions consultant can help your application stand out among admissions committees and makes an impressive impact.

How Can a College Admissions Consultant Help Me?

If you are a high school student trying to plan for your future, an admissions consultant can help you in many ways. They can help you submit an application that will give you an edge when you apply for college. Improving your grades and scoring high on placement tests is a must when it comes to being accepted at the school of your choice. So, many companies offer academic tutoring and test prep services.

An admissions consultant is also valuable when writing an essay that speaks volumes about your character, commitment, and willingness to succeed at reaching your career goals. Your consultant can help you through the entire college admissions process. Working through any challenges you may face, they will help you build a resume that will get you into your favorite college and propel you forward after you graduate with your degree.

What are the Advantages of Hiring College Admissions Counseling Services?

When you hire a college admissions counselor it makes it easier for you to navigate the college admissions process. Many college counseling services hire former admissions officers with a wealth of expertise and knowledge. So, hiring a college admissions counselor or a college admissions consulting firm basically gives you access to a network of resources that allows them to efficiently provide personalized guidance. These professionals use their wealth of experience to streamline the process for prospective students. As a result, using college admissions services typically increases the chances of acceptance and also helps reduce stress and anxiety.

What are the Types of College Admissions Consultants? 

The top college admissions advisors may work for themselves for for a consulting firm. Below are the general types of consultants and college admissions consulting firms.

Independent College Admissions Consultants

These Individual Consultants are self-employed professionals who specialize in assisting prospective students with college admissions.

Small Firms 

Small college admissions consulting firms may be better able to Zero In on the unique needs of their clients and provide more specialized and tailored advice. Additionally, a boutique firm have consultants who specialize in specific areas such as SAT/ACT prep, college application essays, or college visits.

Large Education Consulting Firms

Most college admissions consulting firms offer different packages and a la carte services. These organizations typically assist with college admissions, including school selection, application guidance, and financial aid counseling. Generally, speaking, the larger the firm, the more options aspiring college students may have.

What are the Services Offered by the Best College Admissions Consultants?

Students that use a college admissions consultant can expect to receive multiple services when one is employed to help in this process. They offer a range of services for helping students gain admission. Below are some benefits that are potentially included when an admission consultant. 

College Selection

Developing a college list and selecting the right schools for a student’s academic and personal goals is essential. Most college admissions consultants can also help to assemble and fine-tune a customized college list. 

Application Strategy 

A college admissions consultant can also help you outline academic and extracurricular accomplishments to create a successful application strategy. Additionally, your consultant can help you create a timeline for what needs to be done and when and an application budget so you can stay on track financially through the application process and college admissions process. 

College Essay Coaching

Drafting an authentic college essay takes work. A practical and persuasive essay can be the difference between acceptance and denial. However, college admissions consultants can ensure that an article reaches its desired effect. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Calculating the actual cost of a college education and discovering ways to reduce the financial burden is essential. Additionally a college admissions advisor can assist families with financial aid advice and finding the best options for financing higher education. Some also help with scholarship and financial aid applications.

Exam Preparation

Preparing for the college admissions entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT can be the difference between acceptance and denial. College admissions consultants can guide to help students get ready for these tests. 

Interview Preparation

Most schools will require applicants to participate in an interview process, either on campus or via Skype. Many consultants use mock interviews to improve these skills.

Career Planning and Major Selection

College advisers, faculty, and family members are all great resources when choosing a major. So when you navigate the competitive college admissions landscape, collect opinions, weigh options, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and get advice.

Who Can Benefit from a College Admissions Consultant?

Anyone who needs help navigating the complex college admissions process can benefit from working with a college admissions consultant. This includes students with unique backgrounds or circumstances like student-athletes, first-generation, international, and individuals with learning differences. First-time college applicants and students targeting competitive schools can also benefit.

Students find help deciding their educational goals, finding the right college to apply to, researching program options, writing college applications and essays, developing an application strategy, preparing for college admissions interviews, and negotiating financial aid packages. College admissions consultants provide personalized guidance to students of all backgrounds to help ensure that the admissions process goes smoothly. 

First-Generation College Students

Most first generation students who are the first in the family to attend college need extra assistance and guidance. College Admissions Consultants can help first-generation college students with each step of the college admissions process, providing support through every stage, from researching and applying to schools, writing essays, optimizing financial aid packages, and more. College Admissions Consultants may also be familiar with specific scholarships, grants, or supports for which first-generation college students may qualify. Ultimately, a College Admissions Consultant can be an invaluable resource to support and enable a successful college journey.

Student-Athletes

College Admissions Consultants can help student-athletes in a variety of ways. They provide personalized advice about the application process, including choosing the right college, selecting appropriate classes and majors, writing compelling personal statements, and ensuring all application parts are completed thoroughly and on time. College Admissions Consultants also uniquely understand the NCAA and D1 admission process. They can help student-athletes craft their athletic profiles to make the most of their college applications. This expertise can prove invaluable as student-athletes navigate the college admissions process.

International Students

With the high-stakes nature of the college admissions process, it can take time for an international student to figure out the best way to stand out and make a strong impression on admissions officers. International students often face unique challenges when getting into college in the United States. This is where College Admissions Consultants can provide timely advice and help to maximize their chances of admission success. By working with someone familiar with the American college admissions process and experienced in working with international applicants, international students can quickly identify potential obstacles to their success and create strategies to overcome them.

Students with Learning Differences

A College Admissions Consultant could give students with learning differences the guidance and expertise they need to ensure that their applications are competitive with other applicants. They can provide applications that accurately reflect students’ abilities, strengths, and interests. Specialized consultants can help students identify appropriate accommodations and explain the differences to admissions boards to ensure their needs are adequately understood and addressed. Overall, a consultant can give students with learning differences the confidence and representation they need to get into the college of their dreams.

What Should You Look for When Hiring a College Admissions Coach? 

You decided to use a consultant, so how do you choose a college admissions consultant? When selecting a college admissions consultant, it is essential to research and compare different options. Before choosing a consultant, you should determine your expectations, budget, and needs. 

Look for consultants specializing in a specific college admissions field, such as SAT or ACT preparation, essay writing, or interview prep. Additionally, it would help if you asked for references from past clients to ensure that the consultant is qualified to assist with your college admission process. Ultimately, the most crucial aspect of hiring a college admissions consultant is finding someone you trust and feel is a good fit for your situation.

How Much Do College Admissions Consulting Services Cost?

The cost of college admissions consulting services will vary depending on the type of service, the level of service provided, and the provider. For example, some companies offer comprehensive coaching packages that may cost up to a few thousand dollars. Others may offer more limited services for a few hundred dollars. You should research different services and decide which fits your needs and budget best.

What are the Typical Pricing Structures for College Admissions Consultants?

Pay structures vary. For example, some college admissions consultants might charge a flat fee for easy-to-tackle admissions essays and quick applications. In contrast, other consultants might charge an hourly fee for more comprehensive services such as essay editing, test prep, mock interviews, and extracurricular help. Many firms offer a free initial evaluation of a student’s credentials to discuss the options in the future. 

Expect hourly service rates to range from $50 to $300 per hour, with some higher-priced applicants providing more personalized and strategic guidance. Generally speaking, if a consultant offers more comprehensive services such as essay editing, test preparation, and mock interviews, the total cost of services might go up to $4,000 or even higher. 

Some college admissions consultants may also have a package with a fixed fee, which includes a set amount of hours or services. Different packages may be available for other student needs or budgets. An expensive comprehensive admissions consulting package may cost over $50,000. However, the average cost for a complete admissions package from a national firm is around $3,000 to $7,000.

When Should You Start to Work with a College Admissions Consultant?

Many parents and students want to know when is the right time to begin a college coaching service. College admissions is a daunting task, so students and parents should start early. The earlier you start working with an expert college application consultant, the better. Ideally, it would help to start working with them a year before your intended college enrollment date. This will give you enough time to complete a comprehensive application, assemble a robust package, and save yourself some stress. 

Remember that an experienced college application consultant can help you with guidance related to your college and primary selection, financial aid options, and other pertinent areas.

Is a College Admissions Consultant Worth It?

A consultant can be helpful if you want personalized advice and support in the college admissions process and a knowledgeable resource to guide you. They can also help you identify schools that may be a good fit for you and assist you in preparing your applications. However, it is essential to weigh the cost and the availability of support when deciding to hire a college admissions counselor. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not you think a college admissions consultant is worth the cost.

What If I Can’t Afford a College Admissions Consultant?

In the hyper-competitive world of college admissions, students can their families can be pressured into thinking that the only thing that matters is getting into the highest-tier school and that a costly consultant is their only option. However, that’s not always the case. There are many consulting and counseling services with various pricing tiers, packages, and financial help. But for some low income students hiring a consultant is outside the budget. But, don’t despair.

First of all, at College Consensus, we’re big believers in the value of starting small and local. That’s why we strongly recommend that students who are conscious of their money or don’t feel confident about getting into their first choice take a year or two and attend community college. One dirty little secret about the higher-tier schools is that it is often easier to transfer in than to get accepted as a first-year student. First-year students who didn’t cut it have dropped out, and colleges need enrollment to keep their doors open. 

There are also many other options, like taking a gap year to work or intern. Consider enrolling in a pre-college summer program, which can help you make connections at the college you want to attend and build more robust recommendations. There are many ways of building up your application than just paying a consultant. 

Why Do Parents and Students Choose to Pay for a College Admissions Counseling Service?

Each high school in the US has at least one guidance counselor. Unfortunately, the ratio of guidance counselors to students is low. Usually, these counselors must be better trained and motivated to help students. In many cases, they need more understanding of the business and industry needs, which will NOT enable them to guide their students to appropriate college majors and degrees for the student’s future success.

The general perception is that much college admissions material is available online. However, the problem is that this material is scattered, not updated, organized for easy consumption, often inaccurate, and difficult to find when needed. The “insider college admissions track” is not known just by perusing this material.

Professional Organizations for College Admissions Consultants 

  • National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) 
  • Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) 
  • Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) 
  • Association for College Admission Counseling (AACAC) 
  • National College Access Network (NCAN) 
  • American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) 
  • Enrollment Management Association (EMA) 
  • American College Counseling Association (ACCA) 
  • Collegiate Admission and Retention Professionals (C.A.R.P.) 
  • National Independent Educational Consultants Association (NIECA)

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