From the Book - Fifth edition.
What you need to know before you begin
Why has college admissions become so competitive?
What do colleges look for in an applicant?
How do colleges make their decisions?
How colleges (and students) differ: finding what fits
Making the right choices for you
Building your college list
Deciding about early decision and other early options
Tackling your applications
Applying well, Part I: the application and the essay
Applying well, Part II: recommendations, interviews, and activities
Making the most of your special talents
Students with special circumstances
International students applying to study in the U.S. and U.S. students applying to study internationally
Bringing the process to a close
Making your decision after the colleges make theirs
What matters most: advice to parents and students
College preparation timeline.