How to get into top US universities, by a Harvard alum
June 10, 2025
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How we're different
Craft your ‘Signature Strength’
We're a specialized U.S. college admissions firm by Ivy League grads. We help ambitious students identify their defining edge and craft standout applications—from early planning to final essays, your story, sharply told.
Specialized in Top-Tier Admissions Strategy
We specialize in application strategy for top US universities, which require a different approach than most other schools. We help students identify and communicate their ‘Signature Strength’ to the admissions committee.
Read our philosophyIvy League Mentors
College admissions have changed dramatically in the last 5 years — getting into Harvard has become twice as difficult. We only hire coaches who are current students or recent grads from top-tier US universities.
How college admissions have changedCohort Cap
Each student works with a dedicated Ivy League mentor. Because we hire only the best, we keep our student cohort small — admitting only the most driven students and giving them the support to succeed.
Why there’s a cohort capTransparent Pricing
No hidden fees. No vague packages. Our pricing is fully transparent — so you always know exactly what you’re getting, and exactly what it costs.
See pricingHow we get you in
Our services
Guidance by Ivy Leaguers for crafting standout applications. No hidden fees—know exactly what you're getting.
Content Sessions
Ideal for grades 11–12
Tactical feedback to build, refine, and polish the core of your application. Sessions are packaged in sets of 3. We can help with your Common App essay, resume, activities list, or supplemental essay—each counts as one piece of content.
$2,000per 3 content pieces
Includes
- 4 rounds of review per content piece
- Common App essay
- Resume review
- Supplemental essays
- Common App activities
Strategy Sessions
Ideal for grades 9–12
For younger students, we explore passions and build a strategic foundation. For grade 12, we sharpen the strategy and bring your story into focus. Wherever you are, we help you see the big picture—and own it.
$125per session
Includes
- Profile strategic review
- Narrative framing
- Essay topic planning
- Gap analysis & planning
- Mock interviews
Transparent pricing
No hidden fees—know exactly what you're getting. Acera Prep provides industry-leading value relative to top-tier US university admissions prep organizations. Our prices are affordable because we're lean by design. Fewer overhead costs and no bloated operations—just focused, high-touch mentorship from top-tier talent.
How we compare to competitors
Content review pricing vs. top-tier US admissions consulting firms
Lower costHigher cost
$750
$1,80025th percentile
$4,00050th percentile
$6,00075th percentile
$10,000
Acera price
Competitor range
Join our cohort
We can't wait to meet you! For the dreamers out there, go ahead—the button is right below.
Apply now
FAQs
Yes! Over half of our students are below grade 11. We work on strategy and building your profile so you’re well-positioned when it’s time to apply.