There are a few trends happening in the university admissions life cycle right now. I urge you to look at the video link from Grown and Flown, it’s about 8 minutes long discussing some several key points listed below:
AI: Many admissions offices will defer to AI taking a look at applications to the first read and using it as a ‘triage’ of sorts. So many applications are coming into admissions offices, that this is a way to ‘soften’ a heavy reading load
Extra Curricular: No need to stack a ton of extra curricular activities, just show less with more depth
Southern Universities are picking up in popularity and are no longer considered safety schools. They have become competitive in their own right. Students seem to like the ‘tradition’ of school spirit, large campuses and the big sports vibe
The big public universities like University of Michigan rival the Ivies
Test Optional: Students will need a test plan. While this was a ‘thing’ for a while, schools are moving towards looking at testing, therefore, students need to be strategic
Application Timeline: This will be important as many universities are filling their spots with Early Decision/Early Action
International Applications: Is there a stronger interest in going abroad? If so, then this has to be strategically thought out. There are many applications going to schools like Oxford/Cambridge (Oxbridge), fewer international students coming to the US due to immigration restrictions
School Culture: Students are looking more for school culture- can I fit into this campus? Do their ethos align with mine?
This youtube video reminds everyone that this is a stressful moment and to keep health and wellbeing in mind throughout the process, which is what IECs can assist with.
Again, take about 8 minutes to watch Bob Carlton with a more indepth view of the above predictions.
8 College Admissions Predictions for 2026 (PLUS the One Thing Every Family Must Prepare For)