We understand that the college application process can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help students and parents navigate the journey with greater clarity and confidence, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

How many schools should students apply to?

The American and Canadian university admission systems do not set a minimum or maximum number of applications a student may submit. However, applicants are limited to one Early Decision application. As admissions grow increasingly competitive, students and families may feel pressure to apply to a large number of universities in hopes of increasing their chances of admission. In our experience, more applications do not necessarily lead to better outcomes, and may, in fact, diminish the strength of each individual application. When time and energy are spread too thin, it becomes harder to craft thoughtful, tailored applications that genuinely reflect a student’s strengths, interests, and fit.   

Are there minimum academic requirements for applying to Ivy League and other highly selective universities?

While universities do not publish formal minimum requirements, the academic profiles of admitted students offer a clear benchmark of the level of competition. To be a strong candidate, students typically need to be at the top of their class from Grade 9 onwards, have SAT Reading and Math scores in the 750s, and demonstrate excellent English proficiency (TOEFL above 110, IELTS above 8, or Duolingo above 135).

However, academic excellence alone is not enough. The most compelling applicants are intrinsically curious and self-driven – students who pursue knowledge and experiences not because they were told to, but because they genuinely want to. These are often the students so deeply engaged in the passions, projects, and pursuits that they don’t pause to calculate whether it’s “enough” for Ivy League admission. They consistently seek out extracurricular learning, contribute meaningfully to clubs, sports and service, and take initiative in real-world experiences such as internships or research.

What should a student who has been admitted in December (Early Decision/Action) or April (Regular Decision) do for the rest of the year?

Admission is not the finish line; it is a vote of confidence in a student’s character, consistency and potential. Colleges expect admitted students to maintain the same level of academic rigor and personal engagement that earned them admission in the first place. As most acceptance letters clearly state, a significant drop in grades can result in offers being rescinded.

Just as importantly, students are still part of a community that has supported them throughout their journey. The final months of senior year are an opportunity to finish with integrity, continuing to lead by example, staying engaged, and remaining curious. Not simply to keep an offer, but because it reflects the habits, values, and self-motivation that got them there.

Can students apply to both US and UK universities?

Yes, they can. However, we urge students to identify their top destination early in the process. The U.S. and U.K. application processes – particularly for highly selective universities like the Ivy League and Oxford or Cambridge – differ significantly in structure, expectations and timeline.

Students may apply Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), or Restrictive Early Action (REA) to a U.S. University while also applying to Oxford or Cambridge. However, if admitted under a binding ED agreement in the U.S., they MUST immediately withdraw all other applications, including those to any U.K. or European universities. If the ED result is a deferral, they may continue with applications elsewhere.

While applying to both top U.S. and U.K. institutions is technically possible, we generally advise against it. The simultaneous demands of both processes can be overwhelming and may compromise a student’s ability to put forward their strongest work.

How can a student decide where to apply?

Students should begin researching universities in the spring of their junior year (IB1/B’ Lykeion), taking into account program type, location, cost, suitability, and competitiveness. They should stay in regular contact with their College Counselor, who will help them narrow and refine their list strategically.

While nothing compares to visiting a campus in person, this is not always feasible and universities do not require it. Fortunately, most institutions offer a variety of ways for students to engage virtually, including webinars, virtual tours, social media channels, and student panels. These allow students to explore programs in depth and demonstrate genuine interest.

In addition, all current and prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to attend presentations by university admission officers - both at our school and other venues in Athens.

What kind of extracurricular activities should students participate in?

U.S. universities are looking to build a community of individuals with diverse interests, perspectives and lived experiences. What matters most is not how many activities a student participates in, but the authenticity and depths of their involvement. Whether through sports, the arts, academic clubs, student government, service work, or independent projects, students should pursue what genuinely excites them.

We encourage students to commit deeply to just a few areas where they can grow over time, contribute meaningfully, and, when possible, take on leadership or initiative-driven roles. It’ is this consistent engagement, guided by curiosity and integrity, that admissions officers recognize as a marker of character and potential.

Is the SAT compulsory? When should students start taking the SAT tests?

We strongly recommend students take the SAT, as strong scores can significantly strengthen an application, especially at selective institutions. Since students may need to take the test more than once to achieve their target score, we advise taking it at least once by the end of IB1/B’ Lykeion, and using available senior-year test dates to improve scores if needed.

Universities have different policies regarding SAT score submission. Test Blind institutions will not consider SAT scores at all, even if submitted. Test Optional universities will consider SAT scores only if the student submits them. Some other universities follow a Test Required policy, making the SAT a mandatory part of the application.

Is the PSAT compulsory?

No, it isn’t compulsory. However, it is one of the best forms of preparation for the SAT. If possible, we recommend that students take the PSAT more than once, ideally in both 10th and 11th grades, to build familiarity with the test format and improve performance. For U.S. passport holders only, the PSAT taken in 11th grade also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), offering the opportunity to earn national recognition and potential scholarships.