The Dangers of Using University Agents

Large numbers of Chinese students learn about and apply to American schools through local education agents. 

Many agents claim that they seek to find the best institution for the client.  In reality, the majority of agents do not deliver on this promise.  The reason is simple.  Many agents accept fees from both the student and the university.  From the student, they receive fees in the range of 20,000 to 40,000 RMB.  From the university, they receive a commission, which can range from about 15% to 25% of first semester fees. 

Importantly, most reputable universities believe refuse to pay commissions to agents – very simply, good schools attract enough students without help from agents.  As a result, only lesser-known and academically-weak universities agree to work with agents. 

This situation creates a clear and substantial risk for students relying on agents.  Agents have little incentive to help students apply to the best possible school, but are instead incentivized to send students to low-quality, commission-paying universities.  Students who rely on agents may end up wasting their 4-year college education at inferior schools. 

What is the solution?  Consider avoiding agents and relying instead on professional college counselors who do not accept payments from schools, such as AKAD Education Group.  (A good rule of thumb: someone who quickly pushes you to choose from a small range of schools is probably an agent.  Someone who has a long discussion about many potential schools with you is probably a professional counselor.)  Because they are not taking kickbacks from universities, counselors may charge somewhat higher prices than agents, but you might decide that the additional fees are a worthy investment in your future.  You should also do your own research to understand the standing of the universities any agent or counselor recommends for you.