10 Hacks for Getting Into Ivy League Schools Like Harvard and Stanford
Applying to college can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you’re aiming for Ivy League institutions like Harvard, Stanford, or Yale. The Common Application portal, where most universities have made the application process easier and more streamlined, can feel like an intimidating mountain to climb.
But fear not! There’s a way to approach this system strategically, ensuring you don’t just complete the application but do it in a way that sets you apart. In this post, we’ll guide you through 10 Common Application hacks that can boost your chances of getting into your dream school.
The First Step: Understand the Timeline
One of the first things you need to do when applying to prestigious universities is set your timeline. It’s easy to procrastinate, but the Common App isn’t a last-minute job if you want to make an impact. The key is early preparation.
- Early September: Start by researching the universities you’re applying to. Understand their specific requirements (some schools may have supplementary essays). At the same time, begin drafting your statement and gather necessary documents, like recommendation letters and transcripts.
- October to November: This is the time to finalize your application, submit it, and review your essays carefully. Some schools have early action deadlines (typically November 1st or 15th), so don’t miss these dates.
- December to January: This period is for Regular Decision submissions. Finalize everything, and make sure your essays have been proofread. Keep in mind that the Common Application allows you to apply to multiple schools with the same application, but every university may have different additional requirements.
The Power of Planning: Know What You’re Up Against
Before diving into the application itself, let’s step back and plan. There’s so much to consider:
- Research the Schools: Understand what each university values in its applicants. What are they looking for in your essays? What extracurriculars matter most to them? For example, Stanford values creativity and innovation, while Harvard appreciates leadership and commitment. Tailoring your application to fit these values is a subtle yet powerful hack.
- Know the Deadlines: Create a detailed checklist for all your tasks. Don’t just go by the deadlines of the Common Application; each university may have specific supplementary deadlines for essays and portfolios.
- Be Strategic About Your Choices: Use the school search tool in the Common App portal to explore which schools accept the Common App. Don’t apply to too many schools; focus on quality over quantity. Research each school carefully to make sure you’re applying to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools.
Tip #1: Start Your Application Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to start filling out the Common Application portal. Starting early gives you enough time to reflect on your personal story, identify your strengths, and make sure all your materials are in place. Begin applying the Common App over the summer so you don’t feel the panic that many others did in late fall.
Tip #2: Write a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to tell your story. This is where you can stand out and show your true personality beyond your test scores and grades. While it’s essential to stay true to yourself, a well-written personal statement should also focus on the following:
- Showcase growth: Admissions officers love stories of personal growth. Reflect on challenges or obstacles you’ve faced and explain how you’ve overcome them.
- Be specific: Use examples and anecdotes to illustrate your story. Avoid vague statements like “I’m passionate about helping others.” Instead, describe a specific moment that sparked your passion for helping others.
- Link to the future: Show how your experiences have prepared you for your future at college and beyond.
Tip #3: Highlight Your Extracurriculars Strategically
When it comes to extracurriculars, quality matters more than quantity. Don’t list every activity you’ve done; focus on the ones where you’ve shown leadership or a long-term commitment. During your application process, from the several activities you are involved in, choose to highlight those where you had made a measurable impact, such as organizing community service events and leading the debate team.
Tip #4: Ask for Meaningful Recommendations
Your recommendation letters are often one of the most important components of your application. Don’t just ask anyone to write them; approach teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your strengths in a detailed, personal way. A generic recommendation won’t stand out, so make sure your recommenders understand why you want to attend your chosen schools and can speak to your unique qualities.
Tip #5: Research Supplementary Essays Carefully
Many top universities require supplementary essays along with the Common Application. These essays often ask very specific questions about why you want to attend that particular school or how you align with their values.
One common mistake applicants make is copying and pasting the same essay for different schools. However, it’s crucial to personalize your responses. For example, Stanford might ask how you embody innovation, while Harvard may ask about your commitment to public service. Make sure your responses reflect the unique aspects of the university.
Tip #6: Take Advantage of the Additional Information Section
The Common Application has a section for additional information, which allows you to include anything that didn’t fit elsewhere on the application. Use this space to highlight special circumstances, such as personal challenges you’ve faced or unique achievements. But don’t fill it just for the sake of it. Only include what adds value to your application.
Tip #7: Keep Your Presentation Professional
How your application looks can make a big difference. Double-check for spelling and grammar mistakes. You don’t want admissions officers to feel like your application is rushed. Ask someone you trust, like a mentor or parent, to review your essays. Presentation matters, so make sure everything is polished and well-organized.
Tip #8: Show, Don’t Tell
Don’t just tell admissions officers you’re passionate about something. Show them. If you say you’re passionate about community service, back it up with concrete examples like your role in organizing charity events or tutoring underserved students. This storytelling approach allows you to present yourself as someone with initiative and a genuine drive.
Tip #9: Be Consistent with Your Application Across Platforms
While the Common Application itself is the main hub, many top universities require additional materials like your CV, test scores, or portfolios. Keep everything consistent across the board. If you say you’ve been the president of a club in your application, make sure it matches your CV and letters of recommendation. Consistency is key to building a strong, cohesive narrative about who you are.
Tip #10: Trust the Process
Lastly, trust the process. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about getting in, but remember that your application reflects who you are today. All you can do is put forth your best effort and trust that the right opportunity will come. The most important thing is not to lose your authenticity along the way.
Conclusion
Approaching the Common Application portal with a strategic mindset, thoughtful planning, and attention to detail will make all the difference in your application to top universities. From writing an impressive personal statement to selecting the right extracurriculars and securing meaningful recommendations, each step can significantly improve your chances of acceptance to prestigious institutions like Harvard, Stanford, or any other Ivy League school.
So, what’s your first move? Get started today, plan ahead, and above all, remember that your story is your strength.