National Association for College Admission Counseling

National Association for College Admission Counseling is a prominent professional organization dedicated to serving individuals and institutions involved in the transition of students from secondary education to postsecondary education. Founded in 1937, it provides a national forum for the exchange of ideas and the development of professional standards among high school counselors, college admission officers, and other educational stakeholders. The association is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and its membership spans the United States and numerous other countries, reflecting its influence on the global educational landscape. Through advocacy, research, and professional development, it plays a critical role in shaping ethical practices and equitable access within the field of college admission.

History

The organization was established in 1937, emerging from a growing need for standardized practices and professional collaboration in the nascent field of college admission counseling. Its early meetings, often held in conjunction with gatherings of the American Council on Education, brought together secondary school officials and college administrators to discuss mutual challenges. A significant early milestone was the development of the "Statement of Principles of Good Practice" in 1960, a foundational document that evolved into the current NACAC Statement of Principles of Good Practice. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the association expanded its scope in response to major shifts in higher education in the United States, including the passage of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and the increasing complexity of financial aid processes. Its national office moved to Arlington, Virginia in the 1990s, centralizing its operations near other major educational bodies like the U.S. Department of Education.

Mission and activities

The core mission is to support and advance the work of college counseling and admission professionals while committing to the principles of equity, access, and integrity in the college admission process. A central activity is hosting the annual NACAC National Conference, one of the largest gatherings of its kind, which features sessions led by experts from institutions like Stanford University and the College Board. The association also administers the National College Fairs program, which connects students with representatives from hundreds of colleges and universities across the country. Furthermore, it engages in significant research initiatives, often in partnership with organizations like the American Institutes for Research, to study trends in college enrollment and student retention.

Membership and governance

Membership is comprised of individuals from secondary schools, colleges and universities, and community-based organizations, as well as affiliate members from international institutions. The association is governed by a Board of Directors elected by the membership, which includes representatives from its regional affiliates, such as the Western Association for College Admission Counseling and the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling. The daily operations are led by a Chief Executive Officer, a position held since 2019 by Angel B. Pérez, formerly of Trinity College (Connecticut). Members participate in specialized knowledge communities and assemblies focused on areas like international admissions and access and inclusion.

Publications and resources

The association produces a wide array of publications and digital resources for professionals and families. Its flagship journal, the Journal of College Admission, publishes peer-reviewed research on topics ranging from standardized testing to socioeconomic status in college access. Other key resources include the State of College Admission report, an annual analysis of data from institutions like the National Student Clearinghouse, and Fundamentals of College Admission Counseling, a core textbook for the field. The online NACAC Exchange serves as a vital platform for job postings and professional dialogue among members from organizations like the Common Application and ACT.

Advocacy and policy positions

The organization maintains an active advocacy agenda focused on federal and state policies affecting college admission and student financial aid. Key policy priorities have included support for the Dream Act, simplification of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and opposition to practices that limit student mobility, such as certain early decision policies. Its advocacy team frequently provides testimony before committees of the United States Congress and submits comments to agencies like the U.S. Department of Education. The association also files amicus curiae briefs in pivotal court cases, such as those concerning affirmative action heard by the Supreme Court of the United States.

Ethical standards and professional development

Upholding ethical standards is a cornerstone of the association's work, primarily through the enforcement of its NACAC Statement of Principles of Good Practice. This code governs the conduct of members regarding issues like college recruitment, transfer student policies, and financial aid offers. The National Association for College Admission Counseling also offers a comprehensive suite of professional development opportunities, including the Guiding the Way to Inclusion conference and the Admission Training Institute. Furthermore, it grants the Counselor of the Year Award to recognize exemplary service in the profession, with past recipients hailing from schools like St. Mark's School of Texas and Wellesley College.