🎙️ Checking In: 2026 Admissions Cycle
The start of a new admissions cycle often brings equal parts excitement and anxiety—and the 2026 cycle is no exception. In this episode of the Moon Prep podcast, counselors Nicole and Amanda check in to break down what’s changing, what matters most right now, and how to begin the application process with confidence instead of stress.
The conversation opens with a walkthrough of the newly redesigned Common App, highlighting updates students should be aware of before diving in. Nicole and Amanda explain how to thoughtfully use sections like the Responsibilities and Circumstances area, offering clarity on when it can add helpful context—and when it’s best left untouched.
As the episode unfolds, they turn to one of the most common sources of confusion: honors and awards. Rather than encouraging students to list everything they’ve ever earned, they discuss how to be selective and intentional, focusing on recognition that genuinely reflects growth and impact.
Letters of recommendation are another key focus. The episode outlines when to ask, who to ask, and how students can approach this process in a way that feels professional and proactive. Nicole and Amanda also demystify application types—Early Action, Early Decision, Restrictive Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admissions—while addressing recent policy shifts at schools like Brown, Yale, and the University of Michigan.
Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on preparation and organization. From using the right tools to communicating effectively with counselors, listeners are reminded that starting early doesn’t mean doing everything at once—it means building a plan that reduces pressure later on.
This episode serves as a grounding reset for anyone entering the 2026 admissions cycle. Instead of reacting to rumors or online noise, students and parents come away with a clearer sense of direction and a realistic understanding of what the months ahead may hold.
Check out the latest episode of the White Coat Club now!