What It Really Takes to Get Into Ivy League and Other Highly Selective Colleges

The ultimate insider guide on getting into the country's top colleges

getting into the nation's leading colleges is one of the most competitive--and demanding--endeavors students face throughout the course of their education. even the most outstanding students will benefit from having a knowledgeable guide walk them through every step of the nerve-wracking application process. this unique resource is that guide. written by a former senior admissions officer from harvard university, this comprehensive and easy-to-understand handbook provides keen insight into

• The goals and missions of the admissions offices at highly selective schools
• What the toughest admissions officers are looking for
• How to write an Ivy League application
• The importance of academics, extracurriculars, and "intangibles"
• How to read (and rate) your application like an admissions officer
• Finding the school that's right for you
• PLUS: Case studies--analyzed by the author, real Harvard applications help you determine if you're Ivy League material

straight from the hallowed halls of harvard, this invaluable guidebook offers an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look inside the bewildering college admissions process--giving you the tools you need to ace your application and join the ivy league.

"finally . . . the mystery that is admission to highly selective universities has been unveiled. at a time when acceptance to the nation's top schools has become hyper-competitive, What It Really Takes to Get into Ivy League and Other Highly Selective Colleges arrives to explain the inner workings of the process and does so in a manner that is clear and concise."--Steve Pemberton, Vice President, Monster and Former Admissions Officer, Boston College

"this book approaches the mysterious world of selective college admissions in a straightforward and down-to-earth way.  [the author's] use of actual case studies and admissions deliberations are particularly helpful, as prospective applicants can see how their credentials and experiences might compare to a national and international admissions pool."--dan drummond, co-director of college guidance, university school of milwaukee and former senior admissions officer, harvard college

"chuck hughes's insights are of benefit to anyone involved in the college selection process."--james j. mohan, director of guidance, hinsdale central high school, hinsdsale, il