Webinar | Ask the Experts

8 Predictions That Will Shape 2026 College Admissions

Thursday, January 15, 2026 | 7pm ET
Register Now
Natalie Gallagher
Guidewell Education (Moderator)
Drew Heilpern
Summit Educational Group
Jed Applerouth, PhD
Applerouth Education
Josh Davis
Guidewell Global
Lisa Bain Carlton
ESM Prep College MatchPoint

The New Realities of College Admission

College admissions are shifting fast. Test-optional is becoming test-preferred, flagship publics are more competitive than ever, and AI is changing how essays are reviewed. With rising competition across majors and shifting regional trends, this webinar will clarify what’s changing and how your student can plan strategically.

8 Predictions That Will Shape 2026 College Admissions

Stay ahead of changes that could redefine your student’s chances.

Thursday, January 15
7pm ET

Can’t make it live? No problem!

Sign up anyway, and we’ll send you the recording.

What Your Family Needs to Know Now

Clear guidance to navigate a fast-changing admissions landscape.

How Testing Is Really Changing

Understand the shift from test-optional to test-preferred and what scores mean in a world of straight As.

What AI Means for Essays

Learn how colleges are adapting and why live writing and authentic voice matter more than ever.

The New Rules of Selectivity

See how competition for certain majors, rising demand at flagship publics, and regional shifts are reshaping college lists.

Your Grade-Specific Action Plan

Get clear next steps so your student can plan strategically—not reactively.

Help Your Student Thrive This Admissions Cycle

Meet the Panel

Natalie Gallagher (Moderator)
President
Guidewell Education

Natalie leads Guidewell Education with a clear focus on innovation and student impact. She spent nearly 11 years at Applerouth Tutoring Services in executive roles, including CEO and COO, guiding organizational growth and academic quality. She holds a J.D. from Yale Law School and a B.A. in Math, Economics, and Religion from Emory University.

Drew Heilpern
Academic Success & Testing Expert
Summit Educational Group

As Summit’s Chief Brand Ambassador, Drew guides families through academic and test prep strategies tailored to diverse learning profiles. With a Ph.D. in Immunology, years of tutoring experience, and expertise in cognitive science and student motivation, he crafts solutions that build both confidence and performance.

Jed Applerouth, PhD
Founder, Educational Psychologist, & Test Prep Expert
Applerouth Education

Jed is a nationally recognized expert on the SAT, ACT, and PSAT. A Nationally Certified Counselor with a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, he applies research in cognition, memory, and motivation to develop highly effective test prep methods and keeps tutors equipped with the latest strategies and materials.

Josh Davis
Senior College Coach
Guidewell Global

Josh has over a decade of experience guiding students through highly selective admissions. Since founding ESM Prep in the UK in 2015, he has supported students worldwide with academic planning, essays, and interviews. A Yale graduate and former varsity athlete, he also brings experience from Yale’s Admissions Office and expertise in athletic recruitment.

Lisa Bain Carlton
Founder & Senior College Coach
ESM Prep College MatchPoint

With over 25 years of experience, Lisa helps students—especially those with learning differences and mental health challenges—find right-fit colleges that align with their academic, personal, and financial needs. She also mentors new counselors through UC Irvine and serves on IECA’s Executive Committee.

Secure Your Spot for the 2026 Admissions Forecast

Learn what matters most now—and what to do next.

Looking for Personalized Support?

Schedule a call with a Summit Program Director or reach us at (800) 698-8867.