Considering the Big League: Top 20 Hardest Colleges to Get Into

Hey folks! I'm in the midst of the college application process and I was wondering, what are the top 20 'hardest' colleges to get into? For those of you who aimed for these schools, how did you approach the challenge? I would truly appreciate hearing any personal stories or advice on this!

The "hardest" colleges to get into are usually the ones with the lowest acceptance rates and highest academic standards. Some of the top contenders in terms of selectivity include schools like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Columbia, Princeton, Yale, Caltech, UChicago, and Johns Hopkins. It's also worth noting that highly selective liberal arts colleges like Pomona, Claremont McKenna, and Williams can also be quite difficult to get into.

Getting into one of these schools is no small feat, requiring strong academics, high test scores, and impressive extracurriculars. Many successful applicants are often valedictorians or salutatorians, have near-perfect or perfect SAT/ACT scores, and boast achievements such as state-level awards in their interest area. However, it's not just about the numbers. Selective schools are looking for students with a 'spike'—a deep passion and achievement in one or two fields, rather than a wide range of extracurriculars.

To approach this challenge, one effective strategy is to start early. High school is a time to explore interests, so don't be afraid to try out various activities until you find your passion. Once you have identified that, delve deeper and look for opportunities to demonstrate leadership, dedication, and accomplishment. You might establish a new initiative in your community, conduct research, or compete at the national level in academic competitions related to your interest.

When it comes to essays, avoid cliché topics and instead focus on unique aspects of your life and character. This is your chance to tell your personal story, and how your experiences have made you the person you are today. Show your personality, demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, and showcase how you have gone above and beyond in your area of interest.

Remember, these highly selective schools get applications from thousands of academically qualified students. What sets you apart is your 'fit' for the institution. Research each school thoroughly to understand their values, academic offerings, and campus culture, then demonstrate this fit in your essays and interviews.

Lastly, make sure to also apply to 'match' and 'safety' schools—colleges where your academic profile aligns more closely with the average admitted student or where your chances of admission are significantly higher. Although it's fantastic to aim high, it's also important to keep your college list balanced. Good luck!