Admissions

How To Find Schools For Less Than $20,000 Per Year

How To Find Schools For Less Than $20,000 Per Year

If you ever want honest-to-goodness advice about paying for college, ask a parent who’s already been through it. They are full of valuable information that can significantly impact your student’s future— and they’re usually more than happy to share their wisdom.

Does major matter? What every HS student should know.

Does major matter? What every HS student should know.

Students and parents have many questions about the role of major choice in the college admissions process. While we believe there’s plenty of room for changing your mind and pursuing a range of interests in college, there’s something to be said for thinking about majors of interest early and often.

Read on for what we want every high school student and parent to know about high school majors & why this is something to think about sooner than later –

Navigating the Shifting Tides: Key Trends in College Admissions for 2024 and Beyond

Navigating the Shifting Tides: Key Trends in College Admissions for 2024 and Beyond

The past year continued to witness significant shifts impacting nearly every facet of the college admissions landscape, thereby influencing the lives of aspiring college-bound students. From surging application numbers to dwindling acceptance rates, updates to test-optional policies, and the reshaping of affirmative action, these changes have left an indelible mark on the admissions process.

High School Students Think They Are Ready for College. But They Aren’t

High School Students Think They Are Ready for College. But They Aren’t

At last count, 62 percent of 2022 high school graduates enrolled in either a two- or four-year college immediately after graduation. But students’ college readiness has reached historic lows, according to several metrics—including the lowest scores in 30 years on the ACT and declining scores on the SAT, the two primary standardized tests used for college admissions. And yet, more than 4 in 5 high school seniors report feeling “very” or “mostly” academically prepared for college, according to a 2023 ACT nationwide survey.

They’re not, say experts.

The Ultimate Guide to the ACT in 2024

The Ultimate Guide to the ACT in 2024

Standardized tests play a crucial (albeit often feared) role in the college admissions journey. The significance of exams like the ACT extends beyond admission considerations; they are instrumental in curbing prospective college debt by bolstering the scholarships and financial aid you secure. But what exactly is the ACT, and how can you ready yourself to enhance your score? Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of the ACT, including registration procedures, score computation, and strategies to boost your performance. Continue reading, taking proactive steps to elevate your score and position yourself for the most lucrative job opportunities available to high school students.

Advice for Class of 2025

Advice for Class of 2025

In addition to the shifting SAT/ACT testing requirements for colleges, there is also a major change coming to the SAT in 2024. The SAT will change to a digital format. This means the SAT will change in the middle of junior year for the class of 2025. Read on to find out more.

Choosing Between the Digital SAT and ACT: What You Need to Know

Choosing Between the Digital SAT and ACT: What You Need to Know

Starting in March 2023, the SAT is set to transform into a shorter, snazzier digital test. This development is causing quite the buzz, especially for high school juniors (Grade 11). Typically, strong math whizzes have thrived on the SAT, while those leaning towards reading and verbal skills have found their stride with the ACT. However, with the digital shift, SAT takers now need to excel across the board.There's also the option of ditching the SAT altogether and channeling their efforts into the ACT.

PSAT vs. SAT: How Are They Different?

PSAT vs. SAT: How Are They Different?

The SAT and PSAT are pretty similar tests, but we'll outline four key differences you should know before you take these exams. The SAT is typically a test for which Juniors and Seniors in high school spend more time studying, whereas the PSAT can serve as a practice and a litmus for the SAT.


Going To College Pays, But Elite Colleges Pay Even More

Going To College Pays, But Elite Colleges Pay Even More

he benefits of a four-year degree are substantial and solid. Getting a college diploma will likely be the best investment anyone ever makes.

Not to brag too much, but some of us have been saying this for a long, long time.

But there’s more to the simple value of a college degree, undeniable as that is. That’s because finishing school matters, but where you finish school matters even more.

Junior Year Testing Timeline

Junior Year Testing Timeline

Here's a breakdown of a traditional timeline for junior year, focusing on the PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT, with suggestions for tutoring and goal planning:

September:

- Start by familiarizing yourself with the test formats and content of the PSAT, SAT, and ACT.

- Consider taking a diagnostic test to assess…

Top 11 Tips for Back to High School

Top 11 Tips for Back to High School

Heading back to high school? Whether you’re a high school junior or a senior these tips will help you quickly get into gear for fall semester in terms of your classes, the college admissions process, test prep and, of course, your scholarship search. Yes – there’s a lot to remember – but these tips will help you keep everything on track all semester long by starting out organized, with a plan and with right goals in mind.

What is the Submitter Advantage?

What is the Submitter Advantage?

Colleges universally adopted test optional admissions policies during the pandemic, in part because a handful of national SAT and ACT test dates and a flood of local test center administrations were cancelled. Test optional admissions also served to lower anxiety during a time when both applicants and the schools themselves were panicked about COVID-college. The general public became enamored with rhetoric about how removing objective data somehow produced fairer outcomes. However, feelings among applicants and their parents about test optional admissions have become more mixed as people have had time to consider its implications.

7 THINGS TO DO THE SUMMER BEFORE SENIOR YEAR

7 THINGS TO DO THE SUMMER BEFORE SENIOR YEAR

You just finished your junior year, and you are on top of the world. As the seniors prepare for college in a flurry of stress and excitement, you put your feet up, your shades on, and relax. You’re about to be the head of the school – a senior at last.

But wait that means in no time at all you’ll be preparing to graduate, preparing for college! You’ll be starting real adult life! You’re not ready for this! What the heck?! How did it happen so quickly!

Woahwoahwoah, slow down. With a little planning and effort, you’ll be as prepared as can be to take on your Senior year and start an new and exciting chapter of your life. You just need to know what steps to take.

And that is where we can help. If you want to minimize stress and maximize opportunity, there are a few things you should do this upcoming summer (hint: they don’t involve going to the beach).

Check these 7 things off your summer to-do list, and you’ll be ready to take on the world when fall rolls around.

What To Do Summer Before Junior Year of High School

What To Do Summer Before Junior Year of High School

Don’t know what to do summer before junior year of high school? Here are 10 awesome ideas to give you a head start!

6 Summer Tips to Prepare you for College

6 Summer Tips to Prepare you for College

College can be demanding, so it’s essential to take advantage of the summer months to prepare yourself. From relaxing and recharging to getting organized and networking, these tips will help you make the most out of your summer break. By the end of it, you’ll have boosted your skills, made some valuable connections, and set yourself up for success.

Why It Is Harder to Get Into College in 2023?

Why It Is Harder to Get Into College in 2023?

Numerous degree-seeking students may find getting into college in 2023 harder than the previous years. Trends such as going test-optional, increasing diversity and emphasis on demonstrated interest can make the admissions process competitive, especially at institutions known for their high selectivity level.

Getting Ready for College—It’s Easier Than You Think

Getting Ready for College—It’s Easier Than You Think

It’s never too early—or too late—to explore your options for college or career school. We’ll walk through some key steps in preparing for college and provide resources that can help you along the way. You’ll have to take the time to research and understand your options, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help students make informed decisions and find out what they need to do!

7 Ways to Help Your Kid with College Application Essays

7 Ways to Help Your Kid with College Application Essays

With not much effort, parents can actually help their child get ready for that victory now by helping out, quietly, with one of the toughest aspects of application essays – finding appropriate topics.

Your SAT Score Report Explained

Your SAT Score Report Explained

The top portion of your score report contains a big black number. This is your SAT Score, also referred to as your total score. Next to your score are the numbers 400–1600, indicating that the range of possible scores on the SAT is 400–1600. To the right of your total score is your score percentile, telling you what percentage of students who took the test did better or worse than you. In small type below your score is your Score Range…

How to Start Planning for College in 10th Grade

How to Start Planning for College in 10th Grade

As you settle into your sophomore year, think about taking on new challenges to prep for college—this is a great time to do it.

Review the college checklist for ninth grade and use it as part of your college planning process:

Meet with your high school counselor

  • Schedule an appointment with your school counselor to make sure your course schedule is challenging enough to prepare you for college

  • Find out about the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)—it’s accepted by 2,900 colleges and universities and can help you get college credit, save money, and save time

Explore Advanced Placement Courses

  • Learn about the AP Program and how it can lead to college credit, advanced placement, or both at most colleges in the U.S.

    • Consider which of the 38 AP courses you want to take next school year

    • If you’re already enrolled in a course, be sure to register for AP Exams. Taking AP Exams helps you show colleges you’re committed and motivated to succeed. Check with your AP teacher or coordinator about your school’s registration deadline.

Take the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10

If you’re thinking of attending a U.S. military academy

  • Request a precandidate questionnaire from an academy you’re interested in

Along with your family, research how to get financial aid

Inside the classroom

Attend college fairs or a campus tour

  • Attend at least one college fair and talk to representatives from colleges you may be interested in

  • If possible, visit a college nearby to see what campus life is like