Can colleges see private social media accounts?

I've been wondering if colleges can somehow access or view our private social media accounts during the admissions process. Are they able to see anything besides our public accounts? Should I be more cautious about what I'm posting, even if my account is set to private?

While colleges typically do not have the means to access private social media accounts, it's still important to be cautious about what you post online. It's not unheard of for admissions officers to look at public social media accounts if they come across them during the application review process, but it's unlikely that colleges will have the resources or time to dig through private accounts that are not accessible to the general public.

However, it's essential to remember that what you post on the internet can have lasting consequences, as your connections may be able to see what you share and possibly share it beyond your intended audience. Even if your account is private, it's wise to maintain a professional and appropriate online presence, as college admissions officers, future employers, and others may evaluate your digital footprint.