This year’s seniors applied strategically in the Early Decision round. Sixty-six percent of the class applied ED I, resulting in a remarkable 54% admit rate, while ED II applicants saw a 57% admit rate. Colleges such as WashU, NYU, Duke, Northwestern, Boston College, and UChicago continued to demonstrate a meaningful advantage for students applying early. At a time when admissions can often feel unpredictable, our students embraced the early decision and used it to their advantage.

We were especially excited to see students enroll at institutions that have historically been less common destinations for Menlo graduates, including Pomona, Smith, Lafayette, Emerson, Pepperdine, USD, and San Diego State. These choices reflect a broader trend we are seeing nationally: students and families are increasingly prioritizing community, campus culture, career outcomes, affordability, and personal fit alongside prestige.

The University of California system remained a significant part of the admissions landscape, accounting for 20% of all applications submitted by the Class of 2026. Meanwhile, standardized testing policies continued to evolve. Seventeen percent of the senior class applied without test scores entirely, while an additional 21% submitted scores selectively depending on the institution. This reflects the increasingly nuanced and individualized nature of the college counseling process at Menlo.

Perhaps most importantly, the outcomes reaffirmed something we preach as a counseling office: the importance of balanced college lists. Ninety-five percent of the applications we categorized as “likely” schools resulted in admission offers, while our “target” applications yielded a 68% admit rate. These numbers represent students building lists with both optimism and balance, rather than chasing selectivity alone.

Most of all, we are proud of the Class of 2026 for the way they supported one another throughout the process. They celebrated each other’s successes, handled disappointments with grace, and remained open to possibilities they may not have initially considered. We cannot wait to see the impact they make in the years ahead. Congratulations!