Clear Directions

08/12/2026

Strong test scores help all applicants, whether they are required or optional.

Top-ranked colleges and the Trump administration are embracing the exams, but that doesn’t mean test-optional policies are falling out of favor everywhere. 

08/03/2026

The Common App is open! If your senior is looking for guidance, we can help!

Common App streamlines college applications for over 1,000 schools, saving time, tracking deadlines, and supporting students, counselors, and recommenders.

07/21/2026

It is good to see some fresh, more simplified approaches and a variety of pathways for students seeking education after high school.

Direct-admissions programs aim to streamline the college admissions process.

07/14/2026

Beyond the University of Michigan, there are so many universities and smaller colleges in the midwest that offer amazing programs in wonderful settings! Glad to see the trend towards this region is happening!

https://www.forbes.com/sites/lizdoestone/2026/07/07/after-the-southern-college-boom-the-midwest-is-having-a-moment/

Forbes

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07/10/2026

Fewer supplemental essays can make a student's college application work less overwhelming for sure. Removing what may have been a hurdle for some applicants may result in a big increase in the number of applicants to these colleges. Ok. But will that just mean more denials and waitlisted students? Time will tell.

Administrators said the essays weren’t particularly helpful in making admissions decisions. But it’s too soon to know whether the changes are part of a larger trend.

06/25/2026

It’s 100 years since the first “SAT” was administered. Here’s a fascinating overview the history and impact of this test. What was the original purpose? What is its role in college admission now? Discovered some interesting history in this article.

The standardized exam has evolved over the past century, all in the name of testing for college readiness. Now, it has become a symbol of the American higher education system

06/10/2026

It is increasingly more difficult to discern reality from hype on social media platforms.. and for teens and college information this is a risk. While there are many super helpful posts, we worry that others are dangerous and misleading…

Barry: Depending on the algorithms, students can receive helpful information on admissions or a steady diet of college-bashing posts.

05/13/2026

Finding the "right fit " in colleges is always a personal journey for students and parents with an open mind can facilitate this process for sure:

The author, an expert in college pathways, shares the personal and complex experience of navigating the admissions process with her daughter, highlighting that despite strong academic credentials, the journey involved confusion, emotional challenges, and the importance of fit, community, and support...

04/23/2026

Rick Clark’s perspective is beautifully expressed and a great one for us all to consider:

https://sites.gatech.edu/admission-blog/2026/04/20/college-admission-grits-cowbell-and-your-finish-line/

Georgia Tech