Rock Hard Apps,
How to Write the Killer College Application
by Katherine Cohen, Ph.D.

The inside scoop on how to crack the code of college acceptance by a leading college admissions counselor.

In Rock Hard Apps, Katherine Cohen, founder of IvyWiseT, a private college admissions practice, follows three students through the college application process and uses dozens of other real applications to illustrate what's effective in a college application, and what's not.

Here is the inside scoop on courses and grades, SATs, brag sheets, personal essays, and extra credit. Rock Hard Apps also includes sidebars of do's and don'ts, as well as one complete before and after winning application to an Ivy League school.

Dr. Katherine Cohen—who once worked in the admissions office of Yale University—has cracked the code of college acceptance. Now she wants to teach students to view their applications through the eyes of those who will judge it. Rock Hard Apps is the ultimate guide to writing the perfect college application.

A sterling track record:

IvyWise gets 80 percent of its clients into their first choice schools—and 88 percent into their "reach" schools Katherine Cohen gets fantastic publicity: NBC's Today show, CNN, a People magazine profile, the New York Times, W magazine, and New York Magazine

With two degrees from Yale and an undergraduate degree from Brown, she knows the system—and how to negotiate it Her website, www.Ivywise.com, is one of the fastest growing sites devoted to college admissions.

Dear Dr. Cohen,

I am writing this note to you in appreciation for your help through this crazy college admissions process. Needless to say, I started this process way too late. This fall I bought both of your books and put my applications together. I knew where I wanted to go, but I was puzzled how to get there. Both of your books were extremely helpful. When I presented my completely finished application to my guidance counselor, she was a little irritated I didn't follow her "generic" outline. I was convinced that by following your instructions I would be in great hands. On December 19, 2003 I received an offer of admission to my first choice college. Thanks to your guidance I will be attending the George Washington University in Fall 2004 as an Early Decision 1 applicant.

Thanks again Dr, Cohen!

Justin Deck, West Florida, USA
Accepted Regular Decision
George Washington University, Class of 2008