5 Books to Read if You’re Applying to College
Preparing for college admissions can feel overwhelming, but having the right information and guidance can make all the difference. Whether your student is just beginning to think about applications or already deep into essay writing and school research, the following books offer invaluable insights, practical advice, and reassurance for both students and parents.
Cracking open one of these titles will help you better understand what colleges are really looking for, how to approach the application process strategically, and how to reduce stress along the way.
50 Essays: A Portable Anthology by Samuel Cohen
Optimal for: Students of all ages
This collection of classic and contemporary essays is ideal for students seeking inspiration for their college essays. With authors ranging from Zadie Smith to James Baldwin, the anthology offers students a diverse selection of voices, subject matter, and styles to elevate their own writing. While it is particularly valuable for students preparing to write their college essays, the volume offers something for students across a range of ages and reading levels. It’s also useful for any student taking AP Language and Composition—they’ll be able to reference these texts in the open-ended free-response question!
— Caleb, Senior Tutor
On Writing the College Application Essay by Harry Bauld
Optimal for: Juniors and Seniors
Written by former admissions officer Harry Bauld, this book is a timeless and accessible guide to crafting a compelling personal essay. In an engaging and witty style, Bauld outlines common mistakes, walks students through the writing process from brainstorming to editing, and helps them tell their stories in authentic and memorable ways. This book is an essential resource for students who want to avoid clichés, write with originality, and approach their essays with confidence.
Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo
Optimal for: Juniors, Seniors, and Parents
Jeffrey Selingo, a veteran admissions expert and higher education journalist, offers an insider’s look at how colleges actually make admissions decisions. This book reveals the institutional priorities, policies, and values that shape admissions outcomes, providing students and parents with a clearer understanding of what top schools are really looking for. Selingo’s research helps demystify the process and gives families a more informed, realistic perspective.
Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Bruni
Optimal for: Seniors
The college admissions process can be stressful and emotionally charged. For those feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to get into a “top” school, Frank Bruni’s book provides a refreshing perspective. Through stories of successful people who did not attend elite universities, Bruni reminds readers that fulfillment and success come from what students make of their college experience—not where they go. His message helps students refocus on fit, growth, and happiness rather than prestige.
The Truth About College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together by Brennan Barnard and Rick Clark
Optimal for: Parents and Students at Any Stage
In this practical and candid guide, college counselor Brennan Barnard and admissions director Rick Clark offer an honest look at the application process from both sides of the table. Their focus on maintaining family harmony and reducing stress sets this book apart. They emphasize open communication, realistic expectations, and balance during the college search. The authors also host a podcast by the same name, featuring experts who share additional insights on navigating admissions with confidence and calm.
Final Thoughts
Wherever you are in the college admissions journey, staying informed, preparing early, and approaching the process with an open mind can help you feel more in control. These books provide valuable tools to guide you through every step—from understanding how colleges make decisions to writing essays that truly reflect who you are.
Need more support for your student?
Contact MRM Education for personalized tutoring, enrichment, and math skill-building programs.
