College Admissions Counseling Blog

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that colleges are getting more aggressive in making sure that the information they receive from applicants is accurate. For years colleges have relied on students to be honest in the information provided in applications. Now, because of some identified problems, and because more information is available, colleges are in part able to try to verify information submitted by students.

The University of California system now conducts random spot checks asking about 10% of applicants to verify their activities, grades and facts from personal essays. Harvard has added a professional background checker to their undergraduate admissions staff.

The bottom line is don't lie or exaggerate the information you provide on your college applications. Yes, you should present yourself in the best possible light. But communicate who you really are, not some person you created to get admitted.

The National Association for College Admission Counseling has reprinted the whole article.