What This Year’s U.S. University Admissions Results Reveal for Future Applicants
First, understand what happened. Then learn what to do next.
The Reality Check: What the 2026 U.S. Admissions Results Really Show
A data-driven breakdown of what changed in the 2026 U.S. admissions cycle—and what those shifts mean for families planning ahead.
Monday, 4 May | 7pm ET (midnight UK time)
If the live session is too late to attend, register and we’ll send you the recording.
- Shifts in acceptance rates across selective universities
- The growing impact of Early Decision
- When test scores helped—and when they mattered less
- How intended majors influenced admissions outcomes
Hear from our experts who have guided hundreds of students through the U.S. admissions process.
Lisa Bain Carlton
25+ years as a college counsellor
Bob Carlton
30+ years of higher education experience
Amanda Edelhart
20+ years as a college counsellor
Jed Applerouth
U.S. nationally recognized test prep expert
The Game Plan: What Actually Matters for Students in the U.S. University Admissions Process
U.S. admissions leaders explain how applications are evaluated—and how students can make thoughtful, personalized decisions as they prepare for the next admissions cycle.
Wednesday, May 6 | 7pm ET (midnight UK time)
If the live session is too late to attend, register and we’ll send you the recording.
- Test-optional vs. test-preferred policies
- How universities view AI in applications
- The role of course of study and academic direction
- Why depth in extracurriculars matters
Hear from U.S. admissions officers who read students’ applications
Ashley Templeton
University of Georgia
Carol Lee Conchar
George Washington University
Laura Robitaille
University of Wisconsin
Michael McGrath
Syracuse University
Can’t join us live? Sign up anyway and we’ll send you the recording.
Why This Admissions Cycle Felt So Unpredictable
More high-achieving students are submitting SAT/ACT scores again.
Students now apply to 6.5 universities on average, pushing admit rates lower.
Many selective colleges fill 45–60% of seats before Regular Decision.
As more students apply early, acceptance rates continue to tighten.
Understand the Results. Build the Strategy.
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