Blog
Seniors, why start your application prep during the summer?
Summer is here, and while it's a time for relaxation and fun, it's also the perfect opportunity to get a head start on your college application process. Beginning now, you can ease into the fall with less stress and more confidence. So, let's dive into this exciting...
Heads Up: College Tuition Bills Are Coming! Key Tips for Families
With the new academic year approaching, many families are bracing for the arrival of college tuition bills. While some may have the means to cover these costs, many must explore borrowing options. Making informed financial choices is crucial. Here’s how you can...
College-Bound: Your Essential To-Do List for a Smooth Transition
Congratulations, Class of 2025! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and you're about to embark on an exciting new chapter in your educational journey. Here’s a clear and concise guide to help you navigate the next steps this summer to ensure a smooth...
How to Make College Visits Purposeful?
College visits are invaluable for high school students as they provide a comprehensive and personalized understanding of the college environment. The visits should be purposeful, contributing to a more efficient and meaningful college exploration process. Typically,...
The Importance of High School Resumés in College Admissions
In the journey toward college, a well-constructed high school resumé provides a holistic representation of a student's achievements and experiences. Here are some key reasons why high school resumés are important for college applications. High school resumés allow...
I Applied Early Action and Was Deferred—Now What?
Early action applications can result in acceptance, denial, or deferred admission, offering three potential outcomes. While a deferral may feel like rejection initially, it's a reconsideration during regular decision evaluations. It doesn't imply flaws; instead, it...
Can I Negotiate for More Money From a College?
Yes! It is a process known as a financial aid appeal. Typically, changes in financial circumstances such as job loss, medical expenses, or other unforeseen events may qualify for an appeal. This type of appeal is often referred to as a “special circumstances appeal.”...
Discovering College Scholarships for Your Student
High school seniors have various avenues to explore when searching for college scholarships. Here are some tips to help them navigate the process: Start Early: Begin the search now; most scholarships have deadlines or specific eligibility criteria that require time to...
Benefits of Extracurriculars in High School?
Participating in extracurricular activities can bring students various benefits throughout high school. Engaging in these activities is a valuable commitment for students looking to enhance their personal growth and college prospects. Here are several advantages that...
How do you estimate the college’s net price for your student?
What is the net price? The net price is an estimate of the actual cost families will pay for their student's college education expenses annually. How do you calculate the net price? The college’s total cost of attendance (COA) (tuition & fees, room, board, books...
Should You Consider Financial Fit in Your College Search?
What does “fit” mean? When you shop for pants, the “fit” is not just about whether you can get them on. It involves other factors such as color, quality, appearance, and cost. College fit includes factors such as geographic location, GPA, SAT/ACT scores, academic...
Should Students Take a Gap Year?
What is a gap year? A gap year is a break between high school and college. Students use it to explore other interests like travel, work, or volunteering. It's taken after high school graduation and before starting college the following year. Its main purpose is to...
Students With Learning Differences
What is the correct term? Learning differences and disabilities (LD) are often used interchangeably. LDs don't affect intelligence but may impact how the brain processes information. With proper support, children with LDs can still learn and succeed. The students I...
Does Every College Require the CSS Profile?
What is the CSS Profile? The CSS (College Scholarship Services) Profile is a financial aid application used by many private colleges and universities to determine your student’s eligibility for non-government financial aid, such as the college’s grants, loans, and...
How to Write an Impactful Application Activities List
It's important to choose the right activities and describe them effectively for an impressive application. Tips: Use action verbs! You can Google them! Be concise. Leave out extra words. Complete sentences are not necessary. You have 150 words max! Include a...
How Does College Financial Aid Work?
How much will a four-year college cost your student? It depends on how much financial aid your student receives! Parents often tell me, “We won’t qualify for financial aid.” This depends on many factors, including your family’s financial “profile,” your child’s...
How to Organize Your College Applications
Before applying to college, it is essential to get organized. Even with excellent grades, impressive test scores, and many extracurricular activities, it can be stressful without a well-planned application process. When making your final decision, it will be important...
Money-Saving Advice for College
Saving on college costs reduces debt burdens and promotes long-term financial independence. Knowing ways to save on college costs is important when considering your college list. Student loan debt is the second highest form of debt in the U.S., second only to...