Admission consulting has become a crowded space — and unfortunately, not every consultant operates with your best interests in mind. Before paying anyone for admission guidance, ask these five questions.
- “Can you guarantee my admission?”
Be cautious of any consultant who says yes. No legitimate advisor can guarantee admission — that decision always rests with the institution. A “guarantee” is often a red flag for unofficial or risky routes.
- “Can you give me this in writing?”
Costs, timelines, and the scope of what you’re paying for should be documented clearly — not just promised verbally. If a consultant hesitates to put things in writing, that’s worth noting.
- “What happens if I don’t get admission?”
Ask about refund policies and what support continues (or doesn’t) if things don’t go as planned. A transparent consultant will have a clear answer ready.
- “Are you affiliated with the colleges you’re recommending, and how does that affect your advice?”
Some consultants earn commissions that can bias which colleges they push. It’s fair to ask directly, and a trustworthy advisor should answer honestly.
- “What happens after I’m admitted?”
Good advisory support doesn’t stop the moment your admission is confirmed. Ask what post-admission help is included, if any.
Why This Matters
An admissions decision affects years of your life and a significant financial investment. Asking these questions upfront isn’t distrustful — it’s simply good practice, and any advisor worth working with will welcome them.