I chose to go ahead this cycle without an admissions consultant and it seems like everyone uses one. Now I’m starting to doubt if saving those couple grands was a wise move. Can people who applied successfully without paying for consultants share their experience?

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These stories aren't very dramatic. You do your own research to get a baseline on how your profile compares to your target(s). You think hard about your story, and trust yourself to tell it in a rich, authentic way (and rely on the generous feedback of peers, mentors, and family to refine it, if needed and available). You network with alums and current students to figure out fit. You give yourself time to prepare/study/revise, and keep to your schedule.

None of this is rocket science, and none of this is beyond most applicants' capacities (if it is, that raises larger questions). There's no shame in going to a consultant, and likely no harm beyond the cost, but imo it's only necessary if you don't trust yourself to do the above, or have unique enough circumstances that professional guidance is a must.

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Applied to 6 schools last fall. Got into 3 M7s and am matriculating at a H/S/W this fall. Did not use a consultant.

I DID do a ton of research and legwork on my own, was realistic about my profile, talked to a bunch of students, and made sure my story made sense.

I honestly think if you can be objective about where you stand and where your strengths/weaknesses are in your profile then you can do just fine. I’m sure it makes it a bit easier and takes some stress off your plate during the process, but the process is strenuous for a reason. Just my 2 cents.

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Eh I'm applying to 9 schools r1 without a consultant I feel fine

I lied. Got inspired by your post and bought some of applicant labs consulting services (only like $500 tho)

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