MoSCoW Framework Can Supercharge Your College Prep

Hemant  · Jul 23, 2025 · 3 mins read

Getting into a top college isn’t just about working hard — it’s about working smart. Between SAT prep, AP classes, extracurriculars, essays, and schoolwork, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

That’s where the MoSCoW method comes in — a simple yet powerful framework to help you prioritize your time and efforts more effectively.

🧩 What is the MoSCoW Method?

The MoSCoW framework (named after the acronym MoSCoW) breaks down tasks into four clear categories:

  • Must Have – Non-negotiables; the things you absolutely need to do

  • Should Have – High priority, but not critical

  • Could Have – Nice-to-do if time allows

  • Won’t Have (for now) – Not necessary at this stage; can wait

By grouping your goals and tasks this way, you’ll reduce stress, avoid burnout, and stay laser-focused on what truly matters.

🧠 How to Apply MoSCoW to Your College Prep Journey

✅  Must Have

These are the essentials — things that directly impact your college admissions:

  • Preparing for the SAT or ACT with a structured program (like IvyStrides 😉)

  • Maintaining strong grades in core subjects

  • Completing the Common App personal statement

  • Getting letters of recommendation

  • Meeting application deadlines

👉 These tasks are time-sensitive and critical — they must be done, no exceptions.

🟡 Should Have

Important, but you won’t get disqualified if they’re not perfect:

  • Taking 2–3 AP or IB courses

  • Building leadership roles in clubs or teams

  • Completing 1–2 optional supplemental essays

  • Attending college webinars or fairs

👉 They strengthen your profile and improve your chances, but aren’t make-or-break.

🟢 Could Have

Great to include if you have time and energy:

  • Starting a personal blog or passion project

  • Volunteering for non-school causes

  • Designing your own website or portfolio

  • Joining short online courses in your intended major

👉 These add unique flavor to your application but won’t compensate for weak test scores or grades.

❌ Won’t Have (For Now)

Postpone or let go of:

  • Trying to perfect everything

  • Overcommitting to new extracurriculars late in junior year

  • Comparing your journey to others on Reddit or Instagram

👉 These distract you from the goals that really count.

🗓️ Example: Prioritizing a Week with MoSCoW

Category --- Task Example

Must --- SAT mock test + review session

Should --- Finalize college list

Could --- Work on a blog post about your robotics project

Won’t --- Browse college YouTube vlogs for 2 hours

💡 Final Thoughts: Clarity = Confidence

Top students don’t just do more — they do what matters most.

The MoSCoW method gives you a system to focus, filter, and succeed.

At IvyStrides, we help students not only study smarter for the SAT and essays — but also manage their priorities with the clarity and confidence it takes to reach top schools.