The Truth About Expensive Consultants
What $10,000+ buys you: Brand name, hand-holding, and someone to manage anxiety. Much of what consultants do—school research, deadline tracking, essay feedback—you can do yourself or get for a fraction of the price.
What Consultants Actually Do
- • Create school lists (you can research this)
- • Track deadlines (use a spreadsheet)
- • Review essays (cheaper options exist)
- • Provide emotional support (parents can help)
What Actually Gets You In
- • Strong academics (grades, rigor)
- • Authentic activities you care about
- • Essays that reveal who you are
- • Good recommendations
Better Alternatives (Ranked by Value)
1. Professional Essay Review Services
$179-599Get expert feedback on your essays without paying for a full consulting package. This is where consultants add the most value anyway.
Best for: Most students. Essays are the one thing you can't fully do yourself.
See our affordable review options2. School Counselor
FreeYour school counselor knows your transcript, context, and can provide personalized guidance. Build a relationship early.
Best for: School list guidance, recommendation letters, context about your high school.
3. Free Online Resources
FreeCollege websites, YouTube videos, Reddit communities (r/ApplyingToCollege), and articles like this one provide free expert advice.
Best for: Research, school lists, understanding the process, deadline tracking.
4. Hourly Consulting
$100-300/hrInstead of a full package, pay for 2-3 hours of expert time for specific questions. More efficient than ongoing retainers.
Best for: Strategic questions, school list review, or interview prep.
What You Actually Need (Checklist)
Strong essays: This is non-negotiable. Get feedback from someone who knows what works.
Organized timeline: Make a spreadsheet with every deadline. Set reminders.
Realistic school list: Mix of reaches, matches, and safeties. Research financial aid.
Good recommendations: Ask teachers who know you well, not just famous names.
Proofread everything: Multiple people, multiple times. No typos allowed.
The Bottom Line
Money doesn't buy admission. Wealthy families with expensive consultants get rejected every year, while students doing it themselves get into top schools. Focus your resources on what matters: strong essays and a thoughtful application.