This is the ultimate insider guide on getting into the country's top colleges. Getting into the nation's leading colleges is one of the most competitive - and demanding - endeavors students face throughout the course of their education. Even the most outstanding students will benefit from having a knowledgeable guide walk them through every step of the nerve-wracking application process. This unique resource is that guide.Written by a former senior admissions officer from Harvard University, this comprehensive and easy-to-understand handbook provides keen insight into: the goals and missions of the admissions offices at highly selective schools; what the toughest admissions officers are looking for; how to write an Ivy League application; the importance of academics, extracurriculars, and "intangibles"; how to read (and rate) your application like an admissions officer; finding the school that's right for you; and case studies - analyzed by the author, real Harvard applications help you determine if you're Ivy League material.Straight from the hallowed halls of Harvard, this invaluable guidebook offers an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look inside the bewildering college admissions process - giving you the tools you need to ace your application and join the Ivy League. 'Finally ...the mystery that is admission to highly selective universities has been unveiled. At a time when acceptance to the nation's top schools has become hyper-competitive, "What It Really Takes to Get into Ivy League and Other Highly Selective Colleges" arrives to explain the inner workings of the process and does so in a manner that is clear and concise' - Steve Pemberton, Vice President, Monster and Former Admissions Officer, Boston College.'This book approaches the mysterious world of selective college admissions in a straightforward and down-to-earth way. [The author's] use of actual case studies and admissions deliberations are particularly helpful, as prospective applicants can see how their credentials and experiences might compare to a national and international admissions pool' - Dan Drummond, Co-Director of College Guidance, University School of Milwaukee and Former Senior Admissions Officer, Harvard College. 'Chuck Hughes' insights are of benefit to anyone involved in the college selection process' - James J. Mohan, Director of Guidance, Hinsdale Central High School, Hinsdsale, IL.