College Guidance Counsellor

ROLE
The College Guidance Counsellor is responsible for leading and delivering a comprehensive, high-quality college and career guidance program for students and families. This role requires deep expertise in international university admissions, a proven leadership background in top-tier international schools or universities, and extensive experience in supporting students throughout the application and selection process for highly selective global institutions. The counsellor serves as a strategic advisor, mentor, and advocate for students while maintaining strong relationships with universities worldwide.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Student & Family Guidance

• Provide individualized, strategic college counselling to students and parents, including academic planning, extracurricular positioning, and application strategy.
• Guide students through all aspects of the admissions process: university research, course selection, standardized testing, application timelines, essays, interviews, and financial aid where applicable.
• Advise families on global higher education pathways (US, UK, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other destinations).

Leadership & Program Development

• Lead or significantly contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of the school’s college guidance program.
• Mentor and support junior counsellors or guidance staff, setting best practices and ensuring consistency and quality.
• Develop and deliver workshops, seminars, and information sessions for students, parents, and staff.

University & External Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with admissions officers at top international universities.
• Represent the school at university fairs, conferences, and professional guidance networks.
• Host university representatives and coordinate campus visits (virtual and in-person).

School Collaboration & Administration

• Collaborate closely with academic leadership, teachers, and pastoral teams to support student success.
• Prepare and submit school documents, transcripts, recommendations, and institutional profiles.
• Track student outcomes, admissions data, and trends to inform strategic planning and reporting.

REQUIREMENTS

• 3 years' experience in K-12 college admissions guidance within the context of a school or formal consulting role.
• Minimum of PhD or master's degree and familiarity with the landscape and trends in higher education.
• Exceptional interpersonal, advising, and communication skills with a particular emphasis on writing and public speaking.
• Strategic thinker with strong organizational and data-analysis abilities.
• High level of cultural competence and experience working with diverse, international families.
• Professional discretion, ethical judgment, and student-centered mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a high-pressure academic environment.
• Strong commitment to professional ethics and safeguarding standards.
• Adaptable to a fast-paced international school environment.