B+ Grades, A+ College Application

This alternative college guide from a former Dartmouth assistant admissions director-turned-consultant gives non-straight-A students advice on the many options available to them and tips on how to identify, gain admittance to, and pay for the schools that will allow them to flourish. Less-than-perfect grades? No problem

Contrary to popular opinion, you don't need to have a 4.0 GPA or a perfect jump shot to get into a good college. This insider's guide reveals easy tweaks that will pay off big-time in showing admissions officers that you as a whole--not just your SAT scores--are a perfect fit for their incoming class. With stellar advice on getting into schools that will allow you to thrive, this handbook reveals how to: - Find great colleges that are a good match for your strengths (and will overlook less-relevant weaknesses)

- Painlessly beef up your application

- Tailor extracurriculars to showcase your uniqueness

- Make sure your recommendation letters emphasize the right qualities

- Write original essays that reveal traits beyond your transcript

- Make an impression on admissions officers and college interviewers

- Create an early-admissions strategy to increase your likelihood of acceptance

- Help your chances if you're deferred

- Get into brand-name schools through the side door

- Communicate about learning disabilities or special circumstances

- Get scholarship money based on attributes other than grades

- Customize your financial aid strategy BONUS: Includes an appendix of 130+ selective colleges to consider