U.S. News Acquires Sups AI to Enhance College Admissions Strategies Using AI Technology

U.S. News and Sups AI: A Game-Changer in College Admissions

In a significant move to enhance the college admissions process, U.S. News & World Report has announced its acquisition of Sups, an innovative AI platform dedicated to providing students with guidance during their college application journey. This deal, made public on June 9, 2025, aims to democratize access to college admissions advice, reaching students in over 180 countries.

Sups, founded in November 2023 by a group of college students including Samir Walji and the Rupawalla brothers, Rehan and Daniel, was designed to empower applicants by offering resources that assist them in the college essay writing process. Unlike traditional services, Sups does not write essays for users; instead, it provides advice, helps brainstorm ideas, and gives constructive feedback through a custom-built document editor. This interactive platform aims to be a supportive tool in navigating the often daunting college application landscape.

Neil Maheshwari, the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of U.S. News, expressed excitement about this acquisition, referring to it as a natural step in the organization’s evolution. He stated, "As U.S. News continues to create marketplaces for our consumers, the addition of Sups is a natural evolution of growth." This sentiment is echoed by Walji, who emphasized the mission of Sups to level the playing field for students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. He noted, "Many students unable to afford traditional college counselors turn to Sups for personalized application guidance that is available 24/7."

Integrating Sups into the U.S. News family is expected to enhance its existing suite of services, which includes platforms like College Advisor, TeenLife, and MyFit Custom Rankings. These services already attract over 100 million users annually who visit USNews.com for essential information on tuition, financial aid, and academic life across more than 1,800 universities and colleges in the U.S.

Sups has rapidly gained traction since its inception, with users successfully gaining admission to prestigious Ivy League schools and top-ranked universities. Its AI-powered guidance leverages large language model tools specifically tailored for college admissions, distinguishing it from other available resources. This capability not only assists but also engages students in a meaningful way, making the application process less intimidating.

The partnership highlights U.S. News's dedication to enhancing the educational landscape through technology. The company, recognized as a global leader in quality rankings since its establishment in 1933, continues to evolve with digital advancements. With a diversified digital media presence encompassing various sectors such as Education, Health, Travel, and more, U.S. News attracts 40 million visitors monthly seeking informed decision-making tools.

Looking ahead, the addition of Sups aligns with U.S. News's goal to empower students through comprehensive, accessible resources in their pursuit of higher education. This acquisition underscores a commitment to using technology not only to provide valuable information but also to transform how students approach college admissions in an increasingly competitive environment.

As U.S. News aims to redefine its college advising portfolio, the integration of Sups is a significant step towards smarter, more equitable navigation of college admissions. Students from all backgrounds can now benefit from an enhanced system that prioritizes accessibility and personalized guidance, ensuring that quality admissions advice is no longer limited to those who can afford traditional counseling services.