How to Choose the Right Independent Educational Consultant

Do not trust any offer of guarantees. Ethical IECs, like members of IECA, never falsely promise admission or financial awards. They can, however, help identify colleges and schools that are a good match for the student’s unique profile and guide the student through the application process.

The only way to know about the best matches for you is to be out visiting schools regularly. IECA members, on average, have visited over 150 campuses each, and continue to visit an average of 25 campuses annually.

NACAC and IECA are the two associations for independent educational consultants with established and rigorous standards for membership.

IECA members are expected to continue their professional development by attending conferences, visiting campuses, and participating in other educational programs.

They absolutely should not. IECA members do not accept any fees from colleges, schools, or programs.

The independent educational consultant should make it clear from the outset what services will be provided and what the associated fees will be. Some IECs offer packages, while others have an hourly rate; some provide both options.

The independent educational consultant should never offer to write the student’s college essays or other application materials or complete forms on their behalf. It is essential that the student drives the process and that all materials are the product of the student’s own, best work.

IECA Professional members have, at minimum, three years of admissions counseling experience. They are also required to have experience working with scores of students before we will consider their applications for membership.

While they come from a variety of backgrounds, all IECA members are required to have a master’s degree in counseling or an appropriate field, or similar experience and training.

The answer should be no. An IEC doesn’t get you admitted—they help you to demonstrate why you deserve to be admitted.

IECA member consultants specialize in different types of advising: college, K-12 day/boarding school, graduate school, and therapeutic. Some also have expertise in learning differences/neurodiversity and international education options. Those who specialize must demonstrate additional knowledge and credentials to earn the designation.

IECA’s strict ethical guidelines, Principles of Good Practice, govern the actions of consultants in their relationships with students and families, schools and colleges, and with colleagues. These include a responsibility to understand each student’s special strengths, values, and needs, while striving to include all family members in the educational planning process. All IECA members pledge to abide by these Principles of Good Practice and are required to annually sign and follow the principles as part of their association membership in good standing.