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The vast majority of colleges and universities in the US accept 75% or more of the students who apply despite all the focus on Top 20 universities. In order to admit you in good conscience, however, it will be critical for you to convince the admissions people that your circumstances have changed, you have mended your ways, and that your past choices will not determine those that you will make in the future.
Some colleges like to see improvement
Some colleges also specialize in assisting these “diamonds in the rough” or “late bloomers.” They provide extra academic support. And may have more requirements (including, for example, taking attendance in lectures). Other colleges may accept students on a provisional or probationary basis. You are accepted on the assumption that you will maintain your grades at a certain level. Or else you will be asked not to return for the next semester.
For students with learning differences that have had a marked negative impact on their academic performance will want to make sure they apply to schools that can help them to develop strategies for future success. These schools have learning specialists, adaptive technologies, professional tutors, and many other resources that can help ensure academic success.
Choose a college wisely: it’s not about admission, it’s about graduation
Students with weak academic histories who elect to go directly to a four-year college need to be especially careful in choosing an appropriate college. They also need to be brutally honest with themselves about how the relative lack of daily structure. The increased expectations of personal responsibility, and the existence of countless campus distractions and temptations all may conspire to lure students into a continuation of their bad choices. Students who really want to change bad habits will need to pick colleges that will help them stay on the straight and narrow.
By the same token, it is also important to keep in mind that it can be hard to go “cold turkey” into a life of stoic, academic asceticism. If you cannot find ways to balance a bit of fun with serious academic study, then you are likely to become unhappy. And you may not stick with college long enough to complete your degree and achieve your goals.
Need help find a good college fit?
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Since 2007, the expert team of college admissions consultants at Great College Advice has provided comprehensive guidance to thousands of students from across the United States and over 45 countries across the world. Great College Advice has offices in Colorado, New Jersey, Chicago, North Carolina and Massachusetts.
In addition to our one-on-one counseling, Great College Advice extends its support through one of the most active and resource-rich Facebook Groups for college-bound students and their families: College Admissions Experts. With over 100,000 members—students, parents, and experienced counselors—this vibrant forum offers peer support and expert advice like no other.
