TeenLife's Guide to College Admissions 2025

2025

COLLEGE

ADMISSIONS

Navigate the College

Application Process

With Confidence

Different Ways

to Pay for

College

PRESENTING THE 2025

GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

GOT QUESTIONS

OR SUGGESTIONS?

Email me at

mschwartz@teenlife.com

The journey to college is an exciting

one filled with endless possibilities.

But navigating this path can be exciting

and stressful. With evolving admissions

requirements and expectations, you

need reliable, accurate guidance.

Our comprehensive guide offers a

wealth of information and resources,

from developing essential academic and

soft skills to selecting the right college

and securing financial aid. You'll find

expert advice on everything from writing

a compelling college essay to how to

pay for college.

Whether you’re a freshman just starting

high school or a senior visiting colleges,

narrowing your choice, and sending out

applications — or preparing to fill out

your FAFSA — this guide is your roadmap

to a bright future. Let’s embark on this

exciting adventure together!

Marie Schwartz

Founder, TeenLife Media

Contents

2025 GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

4 College Admissions Services & Programs

PART 1: DEVELOPING ACADEMIC & SOFT SKILLS FOR COLLEGE

7 The Importance of Career Exploration

9 Beyond Academic Success

12 AP vs. Honors Classes

14 Prepping for Standardized Tests

16 How a Post-Graduate Year at

Boarding School Helps You at College

19 Why Summer Programs Are Actually

Pretty Awesome

PART II: CHOOSING A COLLEGE

22 Criteria for Choosing a College

24 How to Use College Rankings

26 How to Maximize Your College Visit

28 Attending College in the U.S. vs. Abroad

29 Need Learning Support?

Here's What You Need to Know

32 A Student-Athlete's Guide to

College Admissions

PART III: APPLYING TO COLLEGE

35 A Parent and Student Timeline for

Choosing & Applying to College

37 College Planning Calendar & Checklist

40 Admissions Journey: The Whitaker Family

41 Understanding U.S. College Admissions

43 College Admissions Strategy:

Deadlines & Major Declaration

45 Activities That Help You Stand Out

on Your College Application

47 Creating a High School Resume

49 Writing a Winning Essay Without

Relying on AI

51 Waitlisted? Now What?

52 Making Your Final Decision

PART IV: PAYING FOR COLLEGE

54 Admissions Journey: Erronn Bridgewater

55 How to Pay for College

(and Not Break the Bank)

60 FAFSA and the CSS Profile:

Everything You Need to Know

62 6 Things to Know About Student Loans

64 Don't Let Cost Hold You Back:

Explore Scholarship Options

2 | 2025 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Welcome students and parents to our 2025 Guide to

College Admissions! This guide is jam-packed with a ton of

information on the college admissions process. Some of it, like

our College Planning Calendar & Checklist, will be helpful for

everyone. The rest is more of a toolkit — it’s all about picking

what fits your story.

We know that every student’s journey differs, and we want to

make sure you can find the information most relevant to you.

Think of this guide as a “choose your own adventure” for the college

journey. Option one: read it cover to cover — we promise you’ll

learn a lot. Option two: skim the table of contents and flip to the

sections you need now. Whichever option you choose, bookmark

this guide and refer to it whenever you have a question about the

college application process and what to expect (and do) once you

decide where you’re going.

Brand new to college admissions? Start with the basics:

» Understanding U.S. College Admissions

Forward-thinking freshmen should take a peek at:

» AP vs. Honors Classes

» Activities That Help You Stand Out

» Beyond Academic Success

Students unsure about potential career paths can take

inspiration from:

» The Importance of Career Exploration

» Why Summer Programs Are Actually Pretty Awesome

» College Admissions Strategy: Deadlines & Major Declaration

Students seeking their dream school can explore:

» How to Use College Rankings

» Criteria for Choosing a College

» How to Maximize Your College Visit

Parents feeling overwhelmed by the financial aid process

can dive into:

» How to Pay for College (and Not Break the Bank)

» FAFSA and the CSS Profile: Everything You Need to Know

» 6 Things to Know About Student Loans

And if you’re a high school guidance counselor looking for

resources for your school’s college and career center — or a

one-stop-shop to help your students start planning their future —

this guide’s for you, too.

2025 GUIDE TO

COLLEGE

ADMISSIONS

PUBLISHER

Founder - Marie Schwartz

mschwartz@teenlife.com

EDITOR

Editor-in-Chief - Nancy Li

nancy@teenlife.com

Managing Editor - Jodi Ireland

jodi@teenlife.com

Associate Editor - Stefanie Tedards

stedards@joincollegeadvisor.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Director of Sales - Brenda Boos

brenda@teenlife.com

Sales Account Manager - Jen Fisher

jen@teenlife.com

Sales & Support Associate -

Regan Beiermann

regan@teenlife.com

DISTRIBUTION

Digital Marketing Strategist -

Dustin Silvaer

dustin@teenlife.com

DESIGNER

Kathy Tilton

kbtilton@gmail.com

To Download a PDF

of this Guide, go to:

www.teenlife.com/guide-to-collegeadmissions

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS SERVICES & PROGRAMS www.teenlife.com/request-college-admissions

BRAND UP branduplife.com

Brand Up’s game-changing platform (best-selling book, live/online program)

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COLLEGEADVISOR.COM collegeadvisor.com

CollegeAdvisor.com is an online college counseling company that has

guided over 8,000 families through the competitive and complex admissions

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we offer personalized support every step of the way. Rated 4.8/5.0 on 450+

Trustpilot reviews, we’ve helped students gain admission to every Ivy League

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Cost: Comprehensive Admissions Packages Starting at $3,000

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IMG ACADEMY imgacademy.com

Located in Bradenton, FL, IMG Academy is the premier boarding school

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accommodations, world-class technology, and a wide variety of programming,

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Cost: $74,900 - $95,900 | Program Delivery: In-Person

Program Type: School


www.teenlife.com/request-college-admissions

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS SERVICES & PROGRAMS

JUNO joinjuno.com

Juno was founded at Harvard in 2018 with a mission to reduce the cost of

college. We use the power of collective bargaining to negotiate lower student

loan rates with lenders. Our community has grown to over 200,000 students

and parents. Sign up before May 1st to gain access to our Fall 2025 deals.

Joining is free and does not obligate students to take a loan. Plus, you’ll be

able to connect with a team of experts for free.

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Cost: Free | Program Delivery: Online | Program Type: Service

LOPER – COLLEGE SEARCH &

PLANNING TOOL getloper.com

Loper is a mobile app that simplifies college planning for students and parents.

Skip the hours of research and expensive consultants. Loper instantly matches

you with schools you’ll love and creates a step-by-step plan to help you apply

with confidence. No stress. No cost. Nearly 200,000 students and families

have already used Loper to guide their college journey. Now it’s your turn.

Download today!

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Cost: Free | Program Delivery: Online | Program Type: Service

WRITE THE WORLD’S COLLEGE ESSAY

COURSES & SERVICES

workshops.writetheworld.org/college-essay

Since 2012, Write the World has supported over 100,000 teens in developing

their writing skills through our online global community. Our Complete Your

College Essay course offers step-by-step video modules, engaging prompts,

practical resources, and personalized guidance to help students craft standout

personal statements — all from home. Need extra help? Our College Essay

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Cost: $69 and up | Program Delivery: Online | Program Type: Service

2025 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS | 5

PART I

DEVELOPING

ACADEMIC & SOFT SKILLS

FOR COLLEGE


THE IMPORTANCE

OF CAREER EXPLORATION

BY JODI IRELAND

he American Student Assistance (ASA) conducted

a series of surveys over several months

on “How Gen Z Approaches Decision-Making.”

About 5,000 students between ages 13 and 20

shared feedback on how they planned (or were

planning) their postsecondary education and careers.

Nearly 70% of current high school students and 66% of

graduates indicated they wished they’d had more access

to career exploration in middle and high school.

Key findings from a 2024 Pearson’s Connections Academy

survey also support today’s students' uncertainty about

their future after high school. Teens also wanted help from

their parents, whether finding jobs (nearly 50%) or sharing

resources (over 40%). With so many options, teens fear

making the “wrong” choice, which can significantly impact

the time and cost of their postsecondary education, training,

and career path.

Yet, while teens need information to make informed

decisions, many parents feel ill-equipped to guide them

beyond their own career expertise. Both parents (52%)

and teens (49%) expressed a strong desire to understand

the skills employers value and how to develop them.

A similar percentage (52% of parents and 42% of

students) emphasized the need for guidance on

suitable educational pathways.

And let’s face it — testing different career paths once

you’re in college isn’t always feasible, let alone affordable.

Fortunately, students can start exploring potential careers

in high school — and even earlier.

CAREER EXPLORATION STRATEGIES

The line between “jobs” and “careers” blurs in today's

economy. While many students use these terms interchangeably,

they represent very different paths. A job

typically refers to short-term employment, often focusing

on earning income. A career, on the other hand, is a

long-term professional journey that provides financial

security and personal fulfillment.

High school students may not fully grasp the distinction.

They may have specific job aspirations, like becoming a

veterinarian or data analyst, but may lack a clear understanding

of the education, training, and experience

required to build a successful career in those fields.

Different career exploration strategies can help teens

navigate this complex landscape. At the heart of the

process lies self-reflection.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

Sports teams, clubs, and student

organizations offer valuable insights

into interests and skills.

HOBBIES:

What activities do students enjoy

outside of school? Do they enjoy

creative pursuits, problem-solving,

or working with others?

SUMMER PROGRAMS

AND CAMPS:

These experiences can expose

students to new fields and help

identify potential career paths.

INTERNSHIPS AND

VOLUNTEERING:

Hands-on experiences provide a

peek into different work environments

and allow students to explore their

interests firsthand.


PLAN YOUR STRATEGY

Whether you’re a parent or a teen, we understand if you

feel overwhelmed by your options. Here are some tips on

how to begin.

1. Figure out what matters to you and what you like.

You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Even if

your interests evolve, exploring options can set you on

the path to a rewarding future. A great starting point?

Identifying your interests. You can take an interest survey

using an online tool like BigFutureQuiz, which helps

match your preferences to potential careers. Or check

out ASVAB’s Career Exploration Program. Many colleges

and universities, like Yale, also have career assessment

tools on their websites.

Think about your values. What do you enjoy doing in

your free time? Do you love to create, solve problems,

help others? Do you like the challenge of taking things

apart and reassembling them? Is it fun figuring out how

things work?

While interests are important, so is figuring out your

values and skills.

• What’s most important to you in a career?

• Do you seek a high salary, work-life balance, the

opportunity to make a difference, or a chance to be

your own boss?

• What are you good at?

• Do you have strong communication, leadership, or

technical skills?

2. Research options.

Once you answer those questions and take a quiz or

two to identify possibilities (if you don’t already have

a few in mind), it’s time to do some digging! Here are

some key questions to consider:

• What does a typical day look like? Job descriptions

often provide a general overview. See if you

can learn about the specific tasks and responsibilities

professionals perform regularly.

• What’s the work environment like? Would you

prefer a fast-paced indoor setting or rather work

outside? Some roles require independent work,

while others rely on teamwork and collaboration.

• What’s the earning potential? Research typical

salary ranges for the profession, remembering

that entry-level roles may pay far less than middleand

upper-level roles. Consider potential expenses

— rent, car payment, insurance, healthcare, entertainment

— and estimate your take-home pay

after taxes (approximately 22% in the U.S.).

• Is the career in demand? Research job growth

projections to see if the field is expected to expand

or contract in the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of

Labor Statistics is a great place to start. It predicts

significant growth in fields like information security,

nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, statisticians,

and wind turbine service technicians.

• What education and training are needed? Some

careers require two-year, four-year, or graduate

degrees. Others require internships or apprenticeships.

Some require only a certificate program and

skills training.

3. Set your goal (note: goals can evolve!).

Once you narrow down a few potential careers, plan your

next steps. Visualize your future and where you see yourself

in five or ten years. Then, work toward that goal by

exploring these possible careers more deeply. You could

shadow someone in the field, volunteer in a related area,

or informally interview a professional in that career.

If you’re ready to look at postgraduate programs, cast a

wide net to see what schools offer the degree or training

you need to obtain an entry-level role. Visit the colleges

and talk to professors and others teaching classes needed

to prepare you for that career. Above all, remember

your career journey is a continuous process of learning

and growth.

4. Review the plan and adjust.

Remember, career exploration is a dynamic process, not

a one-time event. Your interests, values, and skills may

change. For example, if you have a passion for animals

and thought you wanted to become a veterinarian, but

you completed a summer program involved with animal

conservation and fell in love with that type of work,

do not apologize for updating and revising your plan!

Review your goals regularly — talking to your guidance

counselor or parents can be helpful — and adjust

as needed.

One last thought: If you don’t know what you want to do

when you grow up, you’re not alone. Only 25% of high school

students are “very sure” of their post-graduation plans.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, 33% of

college students change majors at least once — and 10%

change their majors two or more times! While you don’t

need all the answers before graduating from high school,

exploring possible careers before starting college can help

guide what you choose to study.


BEYOND ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Acquiring other essential skills to prep you for college

while beefing up your academic performance

BY JODI IRELAND

he journey to college marks a significant turning

point in your life: perhaps your first foray into independent

living, requiring newfound responsibility

for your time, finances, and overall well-being. This

freedom, paired with the academic rigors of college courses,

can present unique challenges during your first year.

Traditional high school classes may not explicitly

address these essential skills, yet they’re crucial for

a smooth, successful transition to college life.

Developing these skills empowers you to navigate

the complexities of higher education with greater

confidence and ease.


You won’t acquire these skills overnight but continuously

refine them throughout your academic journey. Proactively

cultivating these skills before stepping onto campus

gives you a head start on acing your college experience.

ADD THESE SKILLS TO YOUR COLLEGE TOOLKIT

Whatever your high school year, having these skills “in

your back pocket” before you head to college will serve

you well.

TIME MANAGEMENT

College demands a substantial shift in time management.

Expect less classroom time but significantly more independent

study. This freedom can be deceptive, however.

Balancing courses, extracurriculars, a part-time job, and a

social life requires careful planning. While in high school,

practice prioritizing tasks and refining your study habits.

Different strategies work for different people, but here are

a few tried and true approaches that work:

• A color-coded digital (or paper) planner or calendar to

track short- and long-term assignments, extracurriculars,

your part-time job, and other responsibilities.

• A study schedule that reminds you to review your class

notes and materials over time (instead of cramming all

that info into your brain the night before a test).

• Prioritization — handle the big stuff first, like brainstorming

ideas for a huge project, before tackling

easier assignments or homework.

• Cultivate good habits and routines, like reviewing notes

for a different class each night before bedtime.

GOAL SETTING

Defining and pursuing your academic, career-related, or

personal goals fosters a sense of direction and purpose.

To make them feel more tangible and help chart a path

to success, write them down and outline a plan to achieve

them. Break your outline into achievable chunks. After

all, if you’re training for a marathon, you don’t start by

running 10 miles on day one — you build up to it. Achieving

goals works the same way (and feels a whole lot less

overwhelming with this approach).

Set challenging but attainable goals that push you to grow

and provide a sense of accomplishment. Your goals might

include excelling in a certain class, joining a team or club,

or applying for (and getting) a part-time job.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

You need effective communication, emotional intelligence,

leadership, and problem-solving skills to build strong

relationships with your peers, RAs, professors, future

coworkers, and others you’ll meet in the future. Hone

those interpersonal skills in high school by chatting

with people and finding opportunities to interact with

diverse individuals.

Mastering virtual communication is also important,

like learning to write professional emails to your teachers.

If you’ve always relied on your parents to handle administrative

tasks like contacting your teachers, take the

initiative to develop these skills before graduating

high school.

NETWORKING

While networking may seem nebulous, it’s never too soon

to start. Play a high school sport? Connect with your coach

and other players. Have a part-time job? Ask your boss for

a recommendation. Hold a leadership position in a club?

Learn how to create an elevator pitch to introduce yourself,

the club, and its mission. In college, build connections

with your peers, professors, and professionals in your

field of interest.

STUDYING

College requires a deeper level of engagement with academic

material. You spend less time in class, but your

professors expect you to use your “free” time on independent

study. To succeed and master the material requires

you to actively participate in your education. Cultivate that

habit in high school, dedicating 20 or 30 minutes a night

to a deeper study of one of your classes. Now’s the time to

find an effective note-taking strategy, sharpen your critical

reading and analytical skills, and polish your writing skills.

If you’re not naturally organized, proactively establish a

study schedule to help you stay on track.

BUDGETING

Money management is a critical skill that’s never too soon

to learn. If you earn an allowance or have a part-time job,

you can create a budget to manage your finances effectively.

Start by assessing your income and identifying expenses.

Prioritize spending, allocating funds for essentials,

savings, and entertainment. It’s never too soon to learn

the 50/30/20 rule, where 50% of a paycheck is designated

for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings.


WAYS TO DEVELOP THESE SKILLS

Your high school classes, clubs, and other extracurriculars

aren’t the only places for you to develop these skills before

heading to college. Have some additional time in your

schedule during the school year? Consider volunteering.

Want to do something different in the summer? Sign up

for a summer program or travel abroad and learn a new

language. Not sure you’re quite ready for college immediately

after graduation? Consider taking a gap year or

enrolling in a post-graduate year. Whatever you choose,

here are some tips to help you navigate high school and

prepare for the next chapter.

1. Try different things

First, don’t feel like you have to participate in every club

or activity. Yes, try a few things out to see what you like,

but don’t spread yourself too thin. It’s better to focus on

a couple of things you really love.

Real talk: Colleges actually prefer seeing you explore

your interests more deeply than having a mile-long list

of random activities.

2. Check out options outside of school

Have an itch to learn more about a certain topic? See if

dual enrollment is an option! This partnership between

your school and a local college or university allows you

to take classes through the college at a much lower cost

than typical tuition. You earn credits you can potentially

transfer once you enroll as a full-time college student —

and you get to try advanced courses that interest you.

3 Avoid the temptation to chase grades

Here’s the thing about learning — try to enjoy it beyond

just chasing grades. Your GPA matters, but high school

is also the time to discover what excites you about

learning more. When you dig what you’re studying,

everything becomes more fun and meaningful. Plus,

this mindset will help you crush it in college, too.

4. Get involved in the community

Want to break out of the high school bubble and do

something meaningful? Volunteer in your community.

It’s not just good for college applications. Studies show

it can lower your blood pressure and help you live

longer. A side benefit? Your classes may make even

more sense when you see how your lessons connect

to real-world situations.

5. Use available resources

If you begin feeling overwhelmed as your graduation

year grows closer, look for the people and resources

who can help you. There’s no need to struggle alone!

• Your guidance counselor can help you manage

your classes and begin planning for college.

• Honors societies like the National Honor Society

(NHS) and individual honors societies for foreign

languages, the arts, and core classes offer scholarships

and leadership opportunities.

• Talk to current college students — they’ll give you

the scoop on what to expect.

• Check out online publications that include recommendations

and guidance on everything from

prepping for SATs and writing a high school resume

to choosing a college or learning how to

relax and live in the moment.

6. Take care of yourself

Your health matters more than any grade. Prioritize

moving your body, eating nutritious, balanced foods,

staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, hanging with

friends and family, and taking breaks when needed.

CHART YOUR PATH

You’ll figure out what works for you as you move through

high school. While everyone’s got advice to share, only

you can discover your personal formula for success. You'll

build confidence in your choices by trying different study

methods and activities. You might notice yourself becoming

more confident and self-assured. The best part? This

confidence may inspire others around you.

Remember: Your high school journey is unique. Use this

time to explore your interests, find what motivates you,

and develop habits that work for you. Future you will be

grateful you took time to figure things out!


AP VS. HONORS CLASSES

BY JODI IRELAND

ccording to AP Central, the College Board’s

resource for all things Advanced Placement

(AP), almost half of enrolled college students

start with some credit earned by taking AP

classes and their associated exams.

But do higher institutions expect that all applicants will

have taken every available AP course at their high school?

Not necessarily. While AP scores can positively impact

college admissions, it’s just one piece of the puzzle used

to understand a student’s academic potential.

High school guidance counselors and college admissions

professionals agree that it’s better to prioritize quality over

quantity when choosing AP courses. Taking on too many

can lead to burnout and potentially lower AP exam scores.

A few judiciously chosen AP exams with higher scores (4 or

5) demonstrate genuine interest and mastery of challenging

material.

Another option available for high school students? Honors

classes. They work differently than AP classes; students

don’t take a national exam to evaluate their knowledge.

You won’t earn college credit for taking an honors course,

but that doesn’t mean it’s not without value.

When choosing your high school classes, consider more

than what looks good on your transcript. How will your

choices affect your passions and abilities? A well-rounded

application showcases a student who excels academically

and in extracurriculars and personal pursuits and can

maintain a healthy balance between the two.

WHY TAKE HONORS CLASSES

Honors classes are more rigorous than standard courses,

but their content and expectations can vary significantly

from school to school. Each district — and sometimes

individual teachers — has the freedom to create their

own curricula. So, an 11th-grade honors English class

at one school might cover vastly different material

compared to another.

Even though you can’t earn college credits for honors

classes like you can with an AP course, honors classes

still have value. Honors classes go beyond the basics in

standard courses to encourage critical thinking, analysis,

and a more nuanced understanding of concepts.

The faster pace and more demanding workload of

honors classes help you develop essential study skills

in time management, organization, and critical thinking.

These courses also emphasize complex problemsolving

and analytical skills, preparing you for the

challenges you’ll face in college and beyond.

Taking honors classes also demonstrates academic

ambition to colleges and contributes to a well-rounded

education. While AP courses can offer a direct path to

college credit, honors classes also provide a valuable

educational experience.

WHY TAKE AP CLASSES

Top universities seek students with a strong academic

foundation and commitment to challenging themselves.

AP courses can showcase those qualities. A

transcript including successful AP experience highlights

a dedication to rigorous study and your ability

to thrive in demanding academic environments.

Developed and overseen by the College Board, these

courses adhere to a standardized curriculum and end

with a comprehensive standardized exam. High scores

can earn you college credit, enabling you to bypass

introductory courses and potentially graduate early.

AP exam scores are widely recognized, and qualifying

scores earn university credit at institutions in the

United States, Canada, and over 60 other countries.

A caveat: each college and university maintains its own

distinct policies about the minimum scores accepted

to earn credit. A 2024 study published by PPI, which

analyzed the U.S. News and World Report’s top 102

universities and 51 colleges, found that some are


limiting the use of AP credit toward a degree. Of these 153

schools:

• Only 16% offered AP credit in all subject areas

• 42% no longer accept a 3 (out of a possible 5) for college

credit

• 50% cap the total number of AP credits they offer

The report includes the entire U.S. News list of top universities

and colleges’ AP credit policies.

WHICH SHOULD I TAKE?

Let’s address a few misconceptions to help you decide

whether to take honors or AP classes.

Myth: More AP is better

Not necessarily. Prioritize quality over quantity. If you think you’ll

struggle in a certain AP class, take honors instead. For example,

if you can take AP history, AP English and AP calculus, but math

isn’t your strongest subject, sign up for the AP history and

English classes, but perhaps take honors calc instead.

The goal isn’t to overload your schedule, create stress, and

unintentionally set yourself up for frustration and failure! The

classes you take should show your ability to master challenging

coursework in the subject areas that interest you most.

Myth: Only certain AP classes impress

admissions officers

Not at all! The best AP classes you can take are those aligned

with your academic interests and where you can show exceptional

performance. If AP Art and Design and AP Biology are more your

jam than AP U.S. History or AP Statistics, take the art and bio!

Myth: AP courses equal automatic college credit

False. Colleges award credit based on how high you score on the

subject-specific AP exam. Depending on the exam and college,

you may need to score a 3, 4, or even 5 to earn credit. You can

check specific college requirements by visiting their website.

Myth: My school doesn’t offer AP classes,

so I’m out of luck

Not so! Many AP classes are available online — as are the

exams. If there’s an AP class you’d like to take, verify with your

guidance counselor that the credits will count toward your high

school graduation requirement, and if they do, go for it!

Choosing the “right” number of AP and honors classes

is a personal decision influenced by your goals and

circumstances. If you’re aiming for highly selective colleges,

challenge yourself with harder classes. But be careful!

Taking too many AP courses can hurt your college applications

if you get low grades or test scores.

The key? Balance. Think about your commitments. Are

you working part-time? Playing sports? Involved in clubs?

Volunteering in the community? You want to excel in your

classes and have time for these other important activities.

There’s another common misconception that you need a

specific number of AP classes to get into a good school.

But the reality? There is no magic number. Students who

take 15-20 AP classes throughout high school can burn out

from overloading their schedules with college-level courses.

They’re exhausted before they even get to college.

Taking fewer AP classes and staying involved in other

activities you love is better. Colleges want well-rounded

students, not just those who laser focus on AP classes.

The most important thing? Challenging yourself appropriately

without becoming overwhelmed. Review your

options and push yourself to where you “bend” but don’t

break. Be honest about what you can handle. To help

make the best choices for your academic schedule, don’t

just ask, “What do colleges want?” Instead, ask, “What

subjects do I enjoy and excel in?” and go from there.


TIPS FOR PREPPING TO TAKE THE SAT/ACT

BY JODI IRELAND

he 2020 pandemic upended many industries,

including education and the college admissions

testing. Because of safety concerns and facility

closures, many SAT and ACT testing dates were

canceled, making it difficult — even impossible — for

many students to take these standardized tests.

In response, hundreds of colleges and universities temporarily

adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to

apply without submitting test scores. This shift represented

the largest-ever experiment with test-optional admissions

in U.S. higher education.

The sudden change created what many called a “natural

experiment” in college admissions. Schools that had long

required standardized test scores had to evaluate applications

without them, leading to an increased focus on

grades, course robustness, extracurricular activities, and

essays. Many institutions found they could successfully

evaluate potential students without test scores, leading

numerous schools to extend their test-optional policies

beyond 2021.

While some schools have made their test-optional policies

permanent, others have returned to requiring test scores,

creating a mixed landscape in which testing policies vary

significantly among colleges and universities. This variation

has led to ongoing debates about the value and equity of

standardized testing, with some arguing that test-optional

policies increase diversity and access and others maintaining

that standardized tests provide important data for

admissions decisions.

If you’re unsure whether to take the SAT or ACT, many

high school guidance counselors and college education

consultants recommend you sign up. Here are some tips

on increasing your scores — and a timeline for when to

take the tests.

SAT/ACT TIMELINE

Depending on where you live and attend school, you may have the option of taking the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) 8/9 in the fall

or spring of 8th grade. Think of it as a practice test for the official PSAT and SAT. The PSAT 8/9 helps you understand your academic strengths

and weaknesses and exposes you to the SAT format. You can also take the PSAT 10 in 10th grade. If you wait until sophomore year, you can take

practice tests online using free resources like the Khan Academy.

11TH GRADE

Fall (September-November): Take your PSAT/NMSQT in

October, which will count for National Merit scholarships. Take

a full-length practice SAT and ACT under timed conditions and

analyze the results to identify your strengths and areas of weakness.

Choose the best test for you, and start prepping about 2-3

months before your planned test date. Consider different prep

methods like self-study, online courses, tutoring, or classes.

12TH GRADE

Winter (December-February): Take your

first official SAT or ACT (recommended in

January or February). It takes 3-4 weeks to

receive your scores. If you hit your goal score,

great! If not, plan to address areas where you

fell short, and consider different prep strategies

if the initial methods weren’t effective.

Spring (March-May):

Take a second SAT or ACT,

if needed. Give yourself

6-8 weeks between test

dates for focused preparation.

Aim to finish your

testing by June.

The summer before senior year, make time

for optional final preparation if you plan to

take the SAT or ACT for a third time. If you’re

satisfied with your previous scores, use

this time to focus on your other application

components.

If you plan to retake the SAT or ACT, schedule

it for August or October. November test

scores will arrive in time for Regular Decision.

Testing in December cuts score results

close, so use this date as a last resort.

According to the College Board, the average

SAT score increases by about 40 points when

you take the test a second time. Can you improve

by 150, 300, or 500 points? Absolutely.

But certain factors will influence how much

better you do on a second or third attempt.


STUDY TIPS

Whether you’re taking the SAT or ACT for the first or third

time, try the following strategies to prepare.

1. Choose high-quality study materials. The College

Board partnered with Khan Academy to offer a free

online Digital SAT Prep course. You can also download

the College Board’s Official SAT Study Guide. And there

are plenty of other options online, too. The ACT offers

free practice tests and resources alongside its official

subject guides. You can also find many ACT study options

through ACT x Kaplan.

2. Create (and stick to) a study schedule. Both the

SAT and ACT cover many topics. To avoid feeling overwhelmed,

create a schedule that breaks everything into

smaller, more manageable chunks. This resource offers

suggested study schedules for 3-day, 1-week, 1-month,

2-month, and 3-month breakdowns. You can find ACTspecific

study schedules here.

3. Take the practice tests. Think about prepping for your

standardized tests similarly to how you might train for

a marathon. You start with small sprints and gradually

build up. You can do the same with the SAT and ACT,

but as the test date nears, plan to take complete practice

tests (they take 2 ½ - 3 hours) to get a sense of the

conditions on the actual day.

4. Optimize your study strategy. You’ve probably got

a busy schedule already, so maximize your SAT/ACT

study time efficiently by:

• Noting questions you’re unsure about as you take

the practice test(s).

• Grading yourself once you finish and reviewing

all the questions you marked — the ones you got

right and those you got wrong.

• Writing down each question’s general gist, why

you answered incorrectly, and how you could’ve

gotten the correct answer.

5. Knock down mental blocks. We all get mental blocks

— but you can knock ‘em down (and reduce your stress

and anxiety) by treating each mistake as a learning

opportunity. Each time you “deconstruct” your mistakes

to see where you went wrong, you take a step toward

improving.

6. Use a timer. Whether you take a full practice test or

just sections, timing yourself will help you determine

where you can work quickly and where you get bogged

down.

7. Follow the 30-second rule. If you can’t answer a question

in 30 questions, skip it and keep going. Make a

note and go back to them before the test time ends.

Never leave a question blank because the SAT/ACT

won’t penalize you for wrong answers.

8. Think like the test creators. You could say the SAT

and ACT are designed to test how well you take tests,

so put yourself in the mind of those who design them.

• Learn how to eliminate wrong answers by using

your critical thinking skills.

• Create a reading strategy, whether by looking

at the questions before you read the passage or

skimming the passage, reviewing the questions,

and then re-reading the passage more carefully.

• Improve your math skills by cutting down on

common mistakes people make, like forgetting

formulas, misunderstanding the question format

(or misreading the questions), or solving for the

wrong value.

TEST DAY PREPARATION

The night before your test, take a break and don’t study.

Lay out your materials (calculator, pencils, ID, admission

ticket, water bottle, snacks) and get plenty of rest. Wake

up in good time, wear your comfiest clothing, eat a good

breakfast and hydrate. Plan to arrive at the test center at

least 15 minutes early.


HOW A POST-GRADUATE YEAR AT

BOARDING SCHOOL HELPS YOU IN COLLEGE

BY JODI IRELAND

aking a gap year after high school graduation

is nothing new, although it’s more prevalent

among European and Australian than American

students. According to the Gap Year Association,

about 2.6% of the U.S. Class of 2023

took a break before pursuing higher education.

Some graduates opt for volunteer or cultural immersion

programs, but others spend that “13th grade” focusing

on academics. These students recognize that a dedicated

academic year can improve grades and test scores, foster

a sense of independence, and refine essential writing and

study skills. Some who pursue this option are also athletes

who use this time to improve their chosen sport.

A postgraduate (PG) year at a boarding school is an

excellent option for these students. According to Boarding

School Review, just under 2,000 U.S., Canadian, and

European students enroll each year in PG programs.

These students actively participate in varsity sports and

extracurricular activities while benefitting from personalized

guidance from the school’s college counselors. It’s

a unique experience that provides a structured environment

for academic growth and personal development

before heading to college or university.

THE HISTORY OF PG PROGRAMS

PG programs at boarding schools have a long history,

dating back over 50 years. Initially, these programs catered

to male students who often had specific goals, like

improving their athletic, academic, and study skills. While

these objectives remain important, the number of young

women enrolling in these programs has increased significantly.

An increasingly competitive college admissions

landscape has inspired young men and women to take

advantage of a PG year, which can help improve their

chances of gaining acceptance into a top-tier college.


Public schools don’t offer PG years — only boarding

schools do. Historically, if a high school student suffered

some kind of setback, like an illness or sportsrelated

injury, or simply didn’t have the academic

standing necessary to get into one of the Ivy League

schools, they’d stick around at the boarding school for

an extra year.

Top boarding school cohorts have three groups:

• Lowers: 9th and 10th graders

• Uppers: 11th and 12th graders

• PGs: High school graduates retaking 12th grade

(there’s no official 13th grade designation, but

“repeating” 12th grade gives students the flexibility

to take classes that didn’t fit into their schedule

during senior year)

Boarding schools offer flexible curricula where students

in different grades can take a mix of classes;

however, advanced courses have prerequisites. A

typical course numbering system mirrors many college

curricula, with 100-level for 9th grade, 200-level for

10th grade, etc., up to 600-level for second-year

college courses.

PG students often take a mix of advanced 500- and

600-level courses and 300- or 400-level classes that

interest them. While some boarding schools offer AP

or IB courses, many emphasize their own challenging

500- and 600-level courses, which match AP/IB classes

in rigorousness.

WHY ENROLL IN A PG PROGRAM

PG programs offer a valuable opportunity for students

to grow and prepare for college.

ACADEMICS

Some students benefit from more time to strengthen

their academic foundation. Maybe they were late

bloomers in high school and didn’t reach their full

potential. Others may need to improve grades and test

scores to increase their competitiveness in the college

admissions process.

SPORTS

Aspiring college athletes gain time to refine their skills,

compete at a higher level, and increase their visibility

to college recruiters. Improving their athletic performance

can also create additional opportunities to win

scholarship aid — including a full-ride covering tuition,

room, and board.

PERSONAL

Some students benefit from an extra year to develop

greater independence and maturity in a supportive

environment that helps them adapt to living away

from home and develop essential life skills.

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

PG years can enhance college applications by enabling

students to improve their academic profile and increase

competitiveness while receiving personalized

guidance from the boarding school’s experienced

college counselors.

IS A PG YEAR RIGHT FOR YOU?

The first step in deciding whether to apply for a PG

year is clearly defining your goals. Are you interested

in improving your academic performance, developing

your athletic abilities, or growing personally? Many

students who’ve faced health issues, family disruptions,

or other significant challenges also find PG years

a helpful next step before heading to college.

A PG year gives you the freedom to focus on your

individual goals, pursue challenging coursework —

and classes of interest to you — and engage in a more

deliberate college search process. The extra year of focused

learning and personal development often results

in greater academic success and increased satisfaction

once you do begin your college journey.

The spring semester of your junior year of high school

is the perfect time to explore the potential benefits of

a PG year. By now, you have a clear understanding of

your academic progress and can evaluate whether a

PG year aligns with your future goals. Talk to parents,

teachers, counselors, coaches, and even educational

consultants while evaluating this option.

The biggest challenge families face with a PG year?

The cost. According to the Education Data Initiative,

the average annual tuition, room and board for boarding

schools across the country in 2024 was $69,150.

But many schools offer financial assistance, including

grants and scholarships, so if you think that a “grade

13” will set you up for future success, it’s still worth

exploring the PG year option.


Get College-Ready:

Win the Admissions Game

with Stacey Ross Cohen,

Bestselling author, BrandUp

College admissions have changed dramatically. Standing

out in today’s holistic, competitive admissions landscape is

more critical than ever. Enter Brand Up—a game-changing

book and program that has empowered thousands of high

school students with strategies and tools to make a bold

impression on college admissions and beyond. Getting into

your dream school also means using social media to your

advantage—especially since most admissions officers now

consider it part of the application process.

Guided by the mantra "Be a 1 in 100, not part of the 99,"

students will:

■ Uncover their superpower, craft a standout personal

narrative, and answer the million-dollar question:

Why Choose You?

■ Gain insider tips to shine in the admissions process

■ Build a powerful online presence for college &

career success

■ Master LinkedIn to connect with admissions, alumni

& faculty

■ Develop real-world skills: networking, interviewing,

goal-setting, and more

This book is a must-read to get ahead

of the game and be college

admissions-ready! To purchase:

To excel at networking, entrepreneurship,

in the classroom, and in the boardroom,

don't miss Brand Up.

— Barbara Corcoran

ABC’s Shark Tank Investor,

Author & Speaker

AS FEATURED ON

WHY SUMMER PROGRAMS

ARE ACTUALLY PRETTY AWESOME

(And no, it’s not just about padding your college apps!)

BY JODI IRELAND

et’s be real. When summer rolls around, the last

thing most high school students want to think

about is more “learning.” But — stick with us —

summer programs aren’t just mini-school sessions.

They’re amazing opportunities to try cool

stuff, meet interesting people, and maybe even help you

figure out what you want to do with your life.

We all know that when May arrives, freedom is so close

you can almost taste it. While catching up on sleep and

binge-watching your favorite shows (or playing endless

rounds of video games) deserves a spot in your summer

plans, mixing in a summer program can make your break

fun and productive. Think less “sitting at a desk” and

more “hands-on adventures with people who share

your interests.”

LEVEL UP YOUR SKILLS (WITHOUT EVEN

REALIZING IT)

Remember when your parents or teachers said,

“You’ll need this in the real world?” Summer programs

can help you pick up those skills, but in ways that don’t

feel like work.

• Learn how to speak in groups — without that nervous

stomach flip.

• Figure out how to collaborate with different personalities

— even that one group member who never does

their share of the work.

• Become the person everyone wants on their team —

leadership skills for the win!

• Master the art of thinking on your feet — problemsolving

like a boss.

REAL-LIFE SURVIVAL SKILLS 101

Let’s talk about stuff schools don’t usually teach, but everyone

needs to know. Develop your financial literacy and

money management skills beyond knowing how to use

Venmo. Fine-tune your time management (because showing

up late to everything isn’t a great life strategy). Traveling

abroad or living on campus for a weeklong summer

program cultivates your decision-making savviness (especially

when your parents aren’t there to help) and figure

out how to navigate unexpected challenges — because

life just loves throwing curveballs.

BECOME A LEADER (WITHOUT BEING BOSSY)

Leadership isn’t about telling everyone what to do (like

your older or younger sibling). It’s about inspiring people

to work together toward a common goal. Summer programs

give you tons of chances to practice leadership

skills through:

• Group projects that matter — not just random

presentations about random topics.

• Outdoor adventures that push your comfort zone.

• Community service that makes a real difference.

• Team challenges that require everyone’s input.

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Working with others involves more than dividing tasks and

assigning who does what. It’s about learning to listen to

others even when you disagree — and finding common

ground with people from totally different backgrounds.

Summer programs help you learn self-advocacy and how

to manage conflicts and support others while standing up

for your own ideas.

LEVEL UP YOUR COMMUNICATIONS GAME

The ability to express yourself clearly is huge, too,

whether you’re:

• Giving presentations without feeling like you’re going

to pass out.

• Writing emails that actually get responses.

• Having meaningful conversations with new people.


Many summer programs help you develop the self-confidence

to speak up and articulate your ideas clearly —

super helpful skills for college, professional, and

personal life.

PROBLEM-SOLVE LIKE A PRO

Summer programs love throwing challenges at their

participants to help refine critical thinking skills, whether

solving real-world problems or devising creative solutions

when the obvious answer doesn’t work. You learn how

to break big problems into manageable pieces and work

under pressure (without freaking out). Those skills are a

huge asset in the academic and professional worlds!

ADD POP TO YOUR RESUME

Let’s be honest — college applications and job hunting

are competitive. Summer programs help you stand out

by showing you’re:

• Proactive about learning.

• Excited about gaining real-world experience.

• Able to handle independence.

• Interested in adding specific skills that matter in your

field of interest.

• Curious about the world around you.

Whether you attend a leadership workshop, participate in

a language immersion program or take a finance/business

course, that program’s focus adds a little spice to your

resume. It demonstrates your determination to upskill

and keep learning — even in the summertime.

TEST-DRIVE DIFFERENT CAREERS

Don’t know what you want to do when you grow up?

You’re in good company! Summer programs let you try

out different fields while meeting people who work in

careers you’re curious about. You can get hands-on

experience in different industries and figure out what

you like — and what you don’t!

TRY INTERNSHIPS AND WORKSHOPS

Some summer programs take that hands-on experience

a step or two further, offering opportunities to:

• Shadow professionals and see what their days are

really like.

• Work on actual projects that mean something,

not just simulations.

• Learn industry-specific skills.

• Build a portfolio of real work.


NETWORK LIKE A NATURAL

For some people, networking comes naturally, but for

others? Making those connections can feel super intimidating.

Summer programs introduce you to professionals

in your dream roles and mentors interested in helping

you succeed. You’ll connect with other students who share

your interests — and you’ll start building relationships that

might even lead to future opportunities.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Summer programs are what you make of them. They can be:

• A chance to discover new passions.

• An opportunity to build specific skills.

• A way to try out college life.

• A place to make new connections and friends who

get you.

• An adventure that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Remember: The best program is the one that matches

your interests and goals. Don’t just pick something because

it looks good on paper — choose something that

genuinely excites you. After all, it’s still summer, so you

should spend your time doing something fun!

Curious about starting your own company? Check out

business and entrepreneurship programs. Want to hone

that artistic talent? Enroll in an arts workshop. Love all

things technology? Check out a STEM program.

PRO TIPS FOR CHOOSING A PROGRAM

Summer programs offer fantastic opportunities to strengthen

your resume, explore a potential career, polish your existing

skills, and learn new ones.

Start looking early because many popular programs fill up fast.

Look at in-person and virtual programs to see what fits your

schedule best.

Think about length — want to commit for a week? A month?

The whole summer?

Look at the activities and curricula to see what you’ll do.

Talk to past participants if you can; at the very least, read

the reviews.

Consider the location and whether you want to stay close to

home or venture further afield.

Check the costs, and if they exceed your budget, see whether

the program offers financial aid.

Your summer break is precious. Make it count with

experiences that are enjoyable and valuable contributions

to your future.

PART II

CHOOSING

A COLLEGE


CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING A COLLEGE

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

he U.S. is home to more than 5,000 colleges and

universities — how does anyone narrow those

choices to just one? When it comes to college

admissions, picking the right college is just as

important as crafting a standout application. In

fact, finding the right college is key to making the most of

your next four years.

Some students have thought about their dream school for

ages. Others are the first in their family to apply to college.

No matter your situation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. After

all, choosing a college is a big decision! Knowing what’s

out there is the first step towards finding a school aligned

with your values and goals.

UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT TYPES

OF COLLEGES

Each type of college has its own flavor. Everything from

size and campus culture to academic programs and cost

varies by school.

Colleges fall into three main funding-based categories:

public, private, and for-profit. Public colleges receive state

funding, whereas private colleges do not. Instead, they

rely on tuition, endowments, and donations. For-profit

colleges generate profits through the educational services

they provide. These distinctions matter because a school’s

financing will affect the quality of your education and what

you’ll pay for it.

In addition to funding, colleges can also be categorized

based on the types of degrees they offer. Two-year colleges

award associate degrees, and four-year colleges offer

bachelor’s degrees. You might encounter these common

types of colleges while looking for your dream school.

• Public 4-year colleges: These state colleges and

universities typically offer lower tuition than private

colleges; however, tuition costs more for out-of-state

students. Public colleges can vary in size from small

(like the United States Merchant Marine Academy, with

947 students) to large (like Arizona State University,

with over 65,174 students). Most students graduate with

a bachelor’s degree.

• Private 4-year colleges: Many of the most prestigious

schools in the U.S. are private colleges. They tend to

have higher tuition but also offer generous financial aid

packages. Like public colleges, they vary in size and offer

bachelor’s degrees.

• Community colleges: Community colleges are public

in-state, lower-cost options for earning a degree. Most

community colleges offer 2-year associate’s degrees, but

some do offer bachelor’s degrees. Many students begin

their college education at a community college before

transferring to a 4-year institution. In fact, community

colleges saw a 6.2% growth in freshmen enrollment in

spring 2024.

• Liberal arts colleges: These colleges, which tend to be

smaller, provide a liberal arts education, emphasizing

a broad, well-rounded approach rather than intense

specialization. As you work on your bachelor’s degree,

you’ll take courses outside your major, including in the

humanities and sciences.

• Research universities: Many prestigious universities,

including the Ivy League schools, are research universities.

These larger institutions offer a wide range of

majors and degrees, including master’s and doctoral

programs for graduate students.

• Vocational colleges: Unlike other colleges, vocational

colleges focus on career-specific training programs.

Depending on the program, students may earn either

an associate’s degree or a certificate.

Colleges can also have a specific focus or serve a specific

student population. Historically Black colleges and universities

(HBCUs) focus on educating Black students. Religiously

affiliated colleges may integrate a particular faith into their

educational mission. Women-only colleges only accept

women. Certain colleges only offer degrees in specific

fields, such as the arts or STEM.

As you can see, there’s a lot of variety, and no two colleges

are the same. Building your own criteria gives you a clear

framework for comparing colleges.


1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

6 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A COLLEGE

How do you know which type of college is right for you?

For starters, clarify what’s important. Think beyond name

recognition — a prestigious school doesn’t necessarily

guarantee it’ll be a good fit. Consider these factors as you

compare colleges:

Size. A small college campus feels completely different

compared to a larger one. U.S. colleges range from a

few hundred undergraduate students to well over 50,000.

Smaller colleges often have lower student-to-faculty ratios

and more tight-knit communities; larger campuses often

have more resources and more diverse student bodies.

Location. Four years is a long time to spend in one place,

so pick an environment you enjoy. Deciding between urban,

suburban, or rural, East Coast vs. West Coast, and in-state

vs. out-of-state can help narrow your options. Think about

transportation, distance from home, and housing options

on- and off-campus.

Campus culture. Your peers comprise a big part of your

college experience. Consider the makeup of the student

body. Is it diverse? How’s the campus spirit? Extracurriculars

offer a great way to get involved during your college years,

so explore student groups, athletics, Greek life — whatever

you’re most interested in.

Academics. Does the school have the major you want? Is

there a required core curriculum? Whether you’re undecided

or interested in double majoring, consider the strengths of

the programs you’re interested in and how much flexibility

you’ll have to take other classes of interest.

Student resources. This broad category includes everything

from dorm rooms and fitness centers to tutoring and

career services to research and study abroad opportunities.

Remember, you’re paying for much more than your classes,

so take advantage of everything your college offers.

Cost. While cost shouldn’t be a driving factor, be realistic

about your budget. Evaluate a school’s cost of attendance

and the types of financial aid they offer. Applying to college

costs money, so get a general idea about whether a college

is in your price range before sending an application.

As you fine-tune your list of priorities, decide which

factors are “needs” vs. “nice to haves.” Depending on

where you’re accepted, you may need to compromise to

get what matters most to you.

MAXIMIZING YOUR ACCEPTANCES

Many college admissions websites use terms like “reach”

or “target” when describing college types, usually in relation

to building what they call a "balanced" college list. But

what do those terms actually mean? To put it plainly, the

entire college admissions process is a game of odds. Some

colleges admit the majority of applicants, while others only

admit a fraction of hopefuls. Playing the odds maximizes

your total number of acceptances.

Group the schools on your list into three categories:

reach, target, and safety schools.

BEST

SCHOOLS

FOR ME

REACH SCHOOLS are those hardto-get-into

universities with a <20%

acceptance rate. Always consider them

as reach schools, regardless of your

GPA and test scores.

TARGET SCHOOLS can

have a range of acceptance

rates, but your GPA and test

scores should be at or above

their averages. You have a

good chance of acceptance

from these schools.

SAFETY SCHOOLS include those

with 70% or higher acceptance rates

and schools where your GPA and test

scores are way above average. This

category usually includes in-state

public schools.

A “balanced” list should have a combination of all three

schools. How many schools should be on your final list? It

depends on you! Some students apply to over 20 schools

while others apply to just one. The sweet spot? Between

6-10 colleges, including at least one safety school you’re

genuinely excited about attending and a healthy mix of

target and reach schools.


HOW TO USE COLLEGE RANKINGS

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

ach year, different publications roll out their “top

schools” list, giving us an inside look into which

schools are leading the pack. Some of the bestknown

college rankings in the country come from

U.S. News (Best National Universities), Forbes (America’s

Top Colleges), and Niche (Best Colleges in America). While

you’ll find many of the same colleges and universities

topping these lists, each organization has its own ranking

system and methodology for naming the best schools.

Although many students rely on college rankings during

their college search, these rankings have drawbacks. The

top-ranked schools are often highly competitive, and focusing

only on these institutions might cause you to overlook

other incredible, less prominently featured schools.

Understanding how college rankings work and how to use

them can help you make a more informed decision and

ensure you’re considering a wide range of options.

WHAT ARE COLLEGE RANKINGS?

College rankings categorize schools based on a number of

factors, including graduation rates, return on investment,

financial support, and more. They offer a perspective on

the top schools in the country and are generally updated

each year. The Princeton Review, Times Higher Education,

the WSJ, and other independent ranking sites also publish

annual lists.

These lists don’t just feature the country’s best colleges —

they often include sub-categories as well, like the best:

LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES

VALUE COLLEGES

WOMEN’S COLLEGES

HBCU SCHOOLS

COLLEGES BY REGION

COLLEGES BY MAJOR

COLLEGES FOR STUDY ABROAD

Exploring various lists can help you find colleges aligned

with your goals. For example, if you want an engineering

degree, check out Niche’s Best Colleges for Engineering

list or U.S. News’s list of the Best Undergraduate

Engineering Programs.

ARE COLLEGE RANKINGS RELIABLE?

For the most part, yes — but it depends on what you’re

looking for and the methods each ranking site uses to

choose its feature schools. For instance, the Forbes Top

Colleges list uses alumni salary as a determining factor; U.S.

News does not. Evaluative methods include quantitative

metrics, like graduation and retention rates, and qualitative

(or subjective) metrics, like peer rankings from presidents,

provosts, and deans of admissions.

College Scorecard, Payscale, the Department of Education’s

National Center for Education Statistics, and the American

Association of University Professors are several sources

providing data used to generate these lists. Federal data

sources are generally accurate, but sites that collect

self-reported data may contain inaccuracies. To learn

more about data sources, you can read about how Forbes

ranks America’s best colleges or how U.S. News narrows

its top contenders.

While the information used to determine these rankings

may be accurate, it doesn’t mean a school ranked #30

will provide a lesser education than a school ranked #5.

Rankings offer a good starting point, but choosing the

best-fit school requires a deeper look.

1.

2.

3.

3 TIPS FOR USING COLLEGE RANKINGS

Look beyond the top 10. The same schools often earn the

top spots, but there are plenty of excellent colleges further down

the list. Don’t cross off schools missing from that spotlight —

these gems offer great opportunities, too.

Factor in your wants. Lean into your interests and needs,

and let them dictate your college search, not lists and rankings.

If a school lacks the program you want, isn’t the right size, or is

too far from home, don’t add it to your list.

Don’t get caught up in the numbers. Consider college

rankings as one tool in your college search toolkit. Instead of

hyper-focusing on a school’s ranking, visit the campus, talk to

current students, and research specific programs.


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HOW TO MAXIMIZE

YOUR COLLEGE VISIT

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

magine yourself walking through the quad, studying in

the library, and heading to your very first college class

— it can be hard to picture without seeing campus for

yourself. So why not schedule an in-person visit to experience

a school firsthand? Taking a campus tour and

chatting with current students can help you get a feel for

a school’s vibe and a real sense of campus life. Whether

you have a dream school in mind or are still exploring your

options, in-person visits can help you decide if a school is

a good fit.

In general, you can approach college visits in two ways.

You could go on college visits before applying to schools to

help you get a read on important factors, such as setting

and size. For instance, after comparing visits to a large

university and a smaller college, you might find that one

feels more comfortable than the other.

Option B? Planning your college visits after you’ve received

your admissions decisions. This strategy reduces the total

number of colleges you’d need to visit — instead of trying

to visit a ton of schools throughout the summer and in the

fall, you could visit just a handful in the spring.

College visits in the spring are just as valuable as those in

the fall, so choose the timing that best fits your schedule.

Whether you have just a few hours, a day, or a few days

to learn all you can about a college, check out these seven

tips to maximize each visit.


1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

7 TIPS FOR COLLEGE VISITS

Do your research ahead of time. Knowing what a school offers,

from specific programs to campus culture, gives you a good starting point.

Make a list of specific campus spots you’d like to visit, departments or

majors you want to learn more about, and any areas of student life you’d

like to observe or experience while there.

Attend organized tours and information sessions. Official

school-sponsored events such as tours and information sessions are a

must-do. Current students typically lead campus tours and can answer

your questions while giving you a more in-depth perspective on college life.

See whether you can attend an academic information session specific to

your area of interest. Those sessions often allow you to meet department

faculty, undergrads, or grad students.

Ask questions. An in-person visit presents the perfect opportunity to

get answers to your most important questions about academics, student

activities, on-campus housing, and campus culture. Be sure to ask about

anything that matters most to you, whether it’s about specific programs,

student resources, or the overall campus experience. Maximize your chance

to gather firsthand insights beyond what you read online.

Sit in on a class. What better way to experience a day in the life of a

college student than by sitting in on a class? Observing a lecture or lab

can give you a peek into the course content, teaching style, and student

engagement level. You’ll get a feel for the academic environment and the

chance to see if it matches your learning style and expectations.

Talk to current students. Your best source of intel on college life?

The students! While a single student doesn’t represent an entire student

body, talking to a current student gives you a unique take on the college

experience. Ask about their dorm room, extracurriculars, social life, and

what they love (or wish were different) about the campus.

Explore on your own. While organized activities are great, save some

time for yourself. Wandering alone allows you to reflect on your impressions

without feeling pressured to stay focused or ask the “right” questions during

a group tour. Pay attention to your comfort levels in each environment.

Explore the surrounding area, too. A sense of the local neighborhood can

help you imagine off-campus life.

Document your visit. Finally, jot down your impressions! As you visit

more colleges, you’ll want to remember the specifics of each school —

what you liked and didn’t like and your overall impression of your visit.

Take pictures and notes, record new questions for later research, and

capture your feelings for each campus. Then, when it’s time to compare

colleges, you’ll have plenty of references to compare.

HANDLING LOGISTICS

College visits can be really fun and exciting

— but they don’t just happen on their own.

Plan and prepare to ensure a smooth visit. For

starters, consider your timing. The campus will

feel more vibrant during the semester versus

breaks. Consider the weather and climate. Of

course, dress appropriately during your visit,

but imagine the campus during other parts

of the year — midwestern schools can get

hammered by winter snowstorms, but SoCal

schools feature year-round sunshine!

Check if your college’s website includes a calendar

of events for prospective students and

plan your visit accordingly. Tours and information

sessions provide opportunities to connect

with current students and faculty while offering

a guided campus tour. Remember to check

out public transit, if you’re using it, where to

park, and other details about traveling to and

from campus.

VIRTUAL COLLEGE VISITS

While in-person college visits are ideal, they’re

not necessarily accessible to everyone. If

you’re looking at a school in another state, a

campus visit requires airfare, hotel rooms, and

multiple days away from home. If college visits

aren’t a possibility for you and your family,

don’t worry — you can always visit virtually!

Virtual college visits bring the campus experience

to your living room, allowing you to

explore colleges from home. Through immersive

photos and videos, you can wander the

campus, check out housing options, explore

different academic programs, discover extracurricular

activities, and so much more. Many

schools offer live and recorded Q&A sessions

with current students and faculty. While all

virtual visits provide a glimpse into college

life, some definitely go above and beyond to

deliver a truly comprehensive experience.

Check out this list of 25 Virtual College Tours

Worth Taking.


ATTENDING COLLEGE IN THE U.S. VS. ABROAD

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

he U.S. is home to some of the best colleges in

the world — but that doesn’t mean you can’t look

elsewhere. While many students plan to study

abroad for a semester or a year in college, others

opt to spend all four years abroad. Why? Because going to

school overseas offers an amazing opportunity to broaden

your horizons and see more of the world.

Other countries’ colleges may have different teaching

styles, program lengths, costs, and expectations. Programs

are often more focused and less flexible, so you’ll want to

be confident in your choice of major. You’ll also be navigating

cultural differences and potential language barriers,

which can impact your experiences in class and daily life.

Earning your degree abroad has countless benefits and

makes for an exciting college experience. However, studying

far from friends and family has its own challenges.

Homesickness and culture shock are very real — but

they’re nothing to fear. Adjusting to any new school takes

time, whether 500 or 5,000 miles from the familiar.

If you’re considering attending college somewhere other

than the U.S., check out these three reasons why some

students enroll at a university in a different country.

CHEAPER TUITION

The U.S. has some of the highest college tuition rates globally.

For instance, the average yearly tuition at a U.S. private school

hovers at $37,000/year. Now let’s look at some other countries:

CHILE:

$5,000/YEAR

CANADA:

$23,000/YEAR

THE PHILIPPINES:

$2,500/YEAR

NORWAY:

$11,000/YEAR

UNITED KINGDOM:

$12,400 TO $41,000/YEAR

A caveat! Private colleges in Australia and New Zealand cost

nearly as much as those in the U.S., so cheaper tuition isn’t

an across-the-board guarantee.

While students will still need to budget for additional expenses

such as visas, health insurance, travel, and living

accommodations, the savings in tuition alone could easily

offset these other costs. Additionally, many overseas undergraduate

programs take just three years to complete, so you

earn your degree sooner and save time and money, too!

CULTURAL AND LANGUAGE IMMERSION

During the 2022-23 school year, 280,716 U.S. students

studied abroad — a 49% increase from the previous year.

Many choose this route to strengthen their language skills.

While you can benefit tons from spending a semester

abroad, imagine how much you could learn over a few

years! Beyond improving your language fluency, you’ll learn

more about local cultures, traditions, and ways of living.

If you are considering college abroad, identify the primary

teaching language. If you’re not yet fully comfortable

speaking and learning in that second language, confirm

your program is taught in English, at least for the first

year. If the idea of pursuing your degree in your nonnative

language feels overwhelming or causes anxiety but

you still want to attend school abroad, consider limiting

your search to primarily English-speaking countries, like

Canada, the UK, and Australia.

POST-GRADUATION WORK OPPORTUNITIES

If you have your heart set on one day living in another

country, attending college in that country can open you up

to future opportunities. Some countries offer international

students post-graduate work visas, enabling graduates to

remain and work in the country. Take advantage of the college’s

partnerships with local companies and organizations

to land an internship during school and earn valuable realworld

experience. Expanding your professional and social

networks overseas is excellent for building connections and

increasing your chances of success in the global job market.

REAL TALK

TIME:

You should be realistic about how attending college in another country will impact your life: communication across

time zones, fewer visits home during the year, and a whole lot more navigating challenges on your own. But you’ll

also have the chance to explore a new culture, travel to cool countries, and take charge of your future. And who

knows, expanding your college search outside of the U.S. might be the key to finding the college of your dreams.


NEED LEARNING SUPPORT?

Here's What You Need to Know When You Apply to College

BY JODI IRELAND

f you have a student who has received learning support

in K-12 and plans to attend college, you should

know that colleges also offer accommodations, but

they differ quite a bit. We’ll break down the differences

between K-12 and post-secondary learning support

and suggest what to look for during your college search.

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN K-12 AND

COLLEGE LEARNING SUPPORT

In K-12, teachers take primary responsibility for adapting

materials and supporting students’ learning needs. Teachers

help students learn and process information — and

remind students about incomplete work. In some cases,

students receive modified assignments or do individual

check-ins with teachers about their assignments. Teachers

also structure students’ time, provide assistance in that

support, update parents, and advocate for the student.

In college, however, the responsibility for learning shifts

significantly to students. While experts in their fields, college

instructors may not be specifically trained in education

or learning differences. Instructors are responsible

for being accessible to help students during office hours,

but they expect students to manage their own time, take

notes, synthesize material, and communicate their needs.

If students need an assignment extension or are struggling

with something, they have to attend office hours. The

professors, assistants, and other support staff work with

students from the sidelines, and it’s up to the students to

keep everyone in the loop and advocate for themselves.

The legal framework differs between K-12 and higher

education. K-12 operates under the Individuals with Disabilities

Education Act (IDEA), where “student plus services

equals success.” Higher education follows the Americans

with Disabilities Act (ADA), where “student plus accommodation

equals success.” College accommodations aim to

provide equal access rather than guarantee success.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Universities provide academic and reasonable

accommodations — not academic modifications or

fundamental alterations. For example, extended time might

be appropriate, but unlimited time could fundamentally

alter an assignment’s purpose. Other examples could include:

Extended test time for students with difficulty concentrating,

slow reading rates, or reading comprehension challenges.

Audio formats for students with low vision, poor visual acuity,

or reading comprehension deficits.

Separate or reduced distraction testing spaces

for students easily distracted by external or internal stimuli,

experiencing anxiety in large groups, or managing conditions like

Type 1 diabetes that require a quiet space to access medications.

A scribe for students with illegible handwriting or poor

hand dexterity.

Permission to audio record lectures for students with

difficulty concentrating in class, those experiencing anxiety, or

those managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

that may necessitate frequent absences.

Accommodations can address a wide range of limitations

and disability impacts, and they aren’t limited to academics.

Housing and dining accommodations enhance the student

experience and help ensure a student’s well-being.

For example, students with conditions like depression,

anxiety, PTSD, or autism may benefit from a single-room

assignment for a quieter, less socially demanding

environment. A student with mobility limitations needs

an accessible shower with a seat or grab bar. Other

students with conditions like Crohn’s might need a

semi-private or private bathroom. Students with severe

dietary restrictions or allergies may need kitchen access

to prepare their meals. Other dining accommodations

can include meal plan exemptions or reductions.


DISCLOSING YOUR DISABILITY

You don’t need to disclose your specific diagnosis when

applying to college. You can choose to self-identify or not.

Unless you need an accommodation for the application

itself, you can wait until after acceptance to disclose. If you

write about your disability in your application essay, focus

on your personal growth and learning experiences rather

than just your challenges.

Your IEP and 504 plans don’t automatically transfer to the

college level. Your self-identification and the documentation

you provide — a previous IEP, a psychoeducational

evaluation, a letter from your healthcare provider, or other

relevant documents — determine your accommodations.

Other information the college will ask for includes your

diagnosis, specific limitations resulting from your disability,

and the impact of those limitations on your academic

performance. For conditions like migraines or mental

health issues, you’ll need to provide information about

symptoms' frequency, severity, and duration.

When you explore college options, consider whether the

disability office takes a compliance-based or social justice

approach, how the college organizes its services campuswide,

and what additional services are available. Visit the

campus and meet with disability staff to see if it’s a good

fit. The universal design movement has motivated many

universities to create environments that serve all their

students better, with disability diversity enriching

campus communities.

SERVICES OFFERED BY THE DISABILITY

RESOURCE OFFICE

The Disability Resource Office (DRO) at your prospective

campus will be just one piece of the puzzle. While the

DRO can assess your accommodation requests and put

them in place, you won’t go there for tutoring, its staff

won’t communicate with your professors on your behalf,

and it won’t serve as your healthcare provider.

Campuses have other offices to meet your specific

needs, including learning or tutoring centers, office

hours with professors, and health centers. Many colleges

provide individual and group therapy services and have

an on-campus pharmacy for medication management.

The availability of these services varies depending on

the size of the institution.

OTHER CAMPUS RESOURCES

Given the variety of services available on any given

campus, explore the full range of resources beyond the

DRO. Every university offers different services, and the

campus size often determines the availability and depth

of those services.

Many universities, for example, have learning or tutoring

centers staffed with professionals trained to support

students with various learning differences, such as ADHD,

learning disabilities, or autism. These professionals work

with students on specific learning strategies, helping them

develop effective study habits, time management skills,

and approaches to academic work.

In addition to learning centers, many campuses have

specialized writing centers where students can receive

individual assistance with writing assignments and subjectspecific

tutoring (for example, dedicated help for math,

physics, or foreign languages). Some campuses also offer

academic coaching, which can help students build organizational

skills, stay on track with deadlines, and manage

their coursework more effectively.

In addition to academic support, consider your university’s

health and wellness resources. Campus health centers

often offer therapy and group therapy sessions, which can

be an excellent way for students to connect with others

facing similar challenges. Larger campuses may also have

various mental health services and peer support groups

that foster community and emotional resilience.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND

ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES

Many universities provide a range of tools (like

Read&Write, a program that helps students read and

comprehend digital content like PDFs or webpages)

designed to enhance accessibility for students requiring

assistive technology. Programs like these can be invaluable

for students with reading difficulties or other challenges

that make traditional reading methods less effective.

Also more common these days? Audiobooks or digital

versions of textbooks available through the student

store or the library. Students with visual impairments

or other challenges related to traditional text-based

learning particularly benefit from these options.


In larger institutions, assistive technology might extend

to voice recognition software, captioning services, or tools

designed to improve note-taking. If you require any of

these tools, research their availability on your

chosen campuses.

ACCESSIBILITY FOR STUDENTS WITH

MOBILITY CHALLENGES

Students with disabilities such as POTS, Ehlers-Danlos

Syndrome (EDS), or other chronic conditions that affect

their mobility or ability to navigate campus should assess

the campus layout and transportation options. Some

campuses offer shuttles, wheelchair-accessible routes,

or golf cart transportation to help students with difficulty

walking long distances.

"CAMPUSES HAVE OTHER OFFICES TO MEET YOUR

SPECIFIC NEEDS, INCLUDING LEARNING OR TUTORING

CENTERS, OFFICE HOURS WITH PROFESSORS,

AND HEALTH CENTERS."

FINAL THOUGHTS

When researching a college, consider the characteristics

of its disability support services and approach to

student support.

• Does the college prioritize compliance or strive for

a more holistic approach? Consider how the campus

integrates disability services.

• Are they centralized in one office, or are services

like dining, housing, and parking accommodations

managed separately?

• Do you prefer a centralized system or more autonomy

in accessing individual services?

Just as you consider factors like location, size, and

academic programs during your college search, you

should also carefully consider the disability support

services each institution offers. This thorough

investigation will help you pick the perfect college.


A STUDENT-ATHLETE’S GUIDE

to College Admissions

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

any high school student-athletes continue playing

sports in college, but only a few compete

at the collegiate level. The NCAA estimates that

fewer than 10% of high school baseball, softball,

basketball, football, and soccer players become NCAA

student-athletes. Despite the odds, high schoolers have

many reasons for wanting to compete at the college level.

Some dream of going pro one day, while others hope to

earn an athletic scholarship.

Whatever your motivation, applying to college as a

student-athlete, from researching schools while maintaining

grades — and potentially navigating recruitment —

might require some extra planning.

APPLYING TO COLLEGE AS A

STUDENT-ATHLETE

Student-athletes complete many of the same

application steps as other students:

• Taking the SAT or ACT

• Requesting transcripts

• Submitting the FAFSA

• Writing college essays

Additionally, student-athletes must register with the

NAIA or NCAA by creating a profile and submitting

required documents to their Eligibility Center.

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE

ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NCAA)

• Large-scale programs with high visibility.

• Supports over 500,000 student-athletes annually.

• Three divisions; 24 sports.

• Partner schools award $4.0 billion in athletic scholarships annually.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF

INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS (NAIA)

• Smaller-scale programs with emphasis on student-athlete experience.

• Supports over 83,000 student-athletes annually.

• One division; 19 sports.

• Partner schools award $1.3 billion in athletic scholarships annually.


THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

College coaches recruit some athletes directly. The

recruitment process for Division I can begin as early

as the summer before junior year, although recruiting

rules vary by division and sport. Still, it’s never

too early to contact coaches of the teams you’d love

to play for. Even though you may not hear back right

away, you can certainly express your interest and get

yourself on their radar.

Recruitment includes several steps:

• An evaluation period, where athletic programs

look for potential student-athletes by reviewing

highlight videos, attending showcases and tournaments,

and visiting schools

• A contact period, where coaches reach out to

students via email and phone calls. Coaches might

also send out questionnaires or invite students to

attend athletic camps.

• An offer, once coaches have narrowed down their

list of top recruits.

A caveat: You might receive an unofficial verbal offer

at any time. But it doesn’t become official until you

sign your financial aid agreement.

So what happens if you’re recruited before you’ve

submitted a college application. Do you still need

to send one in? Yes, indeed! While recruitment for a

varsity sport might boost your odds, it does not guarantee

admission. You’ll still need to impress admissions

officers at competitive colleges and universities

with your academic performance. Plus, high grades

and strong test scores can help you qualify for both

athletic and academic scholarships.

APPLICATION TIP:

NOTIFY THE COACH WHEN YOU SUBMIT

YOUR APPLICATION! BUILDING A RAPPORT

WITH COLLEGE COACHES SHOWS YOUR

COMMITMENT TO BOTH ATHLETICS AND

ACADEMICS AND CAN HELP MOVE

YOUR APPLICATION ALONG.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

Playing college sports requires you to complete either the

NCAA or NAIA eligibility requirements and impress the admissions

team at your chosen school. For example, to comply with

minimum NCAA Division I academic requirements, students

must complete 16 core high school classes in English, math,

science, and social science and maintain a minimum 2.3 GPA.

Division I schools vary in selectiveness, and excelling

academically is key to positioning yourself as a strong

candidate. Ivy League Division I schools have incredibly low

acceptance rates, expect high GPAs, and have a reputation

for rigorous admissions criteria, for example. Larger state

schools like the University of Ohio or the University of Oregon

accept a higher percentage of students with a greater range

of GPAs and test scores.

While earning high grades is important, challenge yourself, too.

Enrolling in honors or AP courses strengthens your transcript

and demonstrates your commitment to academic growth and

achievement. Balancing challenging courses with your athletic

commitments also shows you can handle the demanding

schedule expected of a college-level student-athlete.

Outside core requirements, take classes that genuinely

interest you! If your goal isn’t to become a professional athlete,

don’t wait until college to explore other interests. Art history,

psychology, computer science, or foreign language classes

might spark new interests and help you discover potential

college majors.

WHAT TO EXPECT ONCE ENROLLED

Being a student-athlete isn’t easy. Practices, extra workouts,

team meetings, and competitions can demand as much time

as you spend on classes and homework. Managing all of your

responsibilities requires serious time management skills —

you’ll need to know when to buckle down and study and when

to unwind and relax with friends.

Your athletic program’s demands will vary depending on your

division and college. Expect the athletic schedule at a Division

I school to be more intense than one at a Division III school.

Additionally, some majors have a more demanding time commitment

than others.

No matter what division you're in, choose a college you love to

stay excited about your athletic and academic pursuits. Finding

a balance that empowers you to thrive as a student and an

athlete is key to a fulfilling, successful college experience.


PART III

APPLYING

TO COLLEGE


A PARENT AND STUDENT TIMELINE

for Choosing & Applying to College

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

hen it comes to college applications, it’s no

secret that starting early can help make the

entire process more manageable — but how

early do you actually need to start? Whether

you’ve been thinking about college or not, you’ve actually

been preparing for your college applications since freshman

year. Every class you’ve taken, extracurricular activity

you’ve joined, and challenge you’ve faced has laid the

groundwork for a strong, well-rounded application.

While you can’t submit applications until the fall of your

senior year, you can set yourself up for success much

sooner. Here’s a timeline to help you navigate the college

admissions process throughout your 9th-12th grade years.

9TH/10TH GRADE

Use the first half of high school for exploration. As you try

different classes and discover new interests and passions,

college may be the furthest thing from your mind. However,

familiarizing yourself with the college application process

can help you feel more prepared as an upperclassman.

• Research your school’s courses. Explore required,

advanced, and elective classes. Talk to a guidance counselor

about your four-year plan to ensure you meet all

graduation requirements. Complete any prerequisites

for advanced honors or AP courses in your junior or

senior year.

• Do extracurriculars. Sign up for school clubs, look into

volunteer opportunities, try out for sports teams, or

work on a skill or hobby.

• Get to know your school counselor. Most colleges

require letters of recommendation from your

guidance counselor, so start building a relationship

by 10th grade. Ask them about your school’s college

application resources.

• Develop good study habits and keep your grades

up. While you may not have much flexibility in choosing

some of your classes, you can still strengthen your work

ethic, improve your study habits, actively engage in

class and work toward earning good grades.

• Begin researching potential colleges. Even without a

clear preference, exploring options can help you refine

your choices when you're ready to apply. During your

search, you might even find a fun summer program for

a sneak preview of college life.

• Get involved in summer opportunities aligned with

your interests. Maximize your summer breaks with

programs, internships, classes, and other extracurriculars.

Staying involved will make it easier to jump back

into classes come fall, and you’ll have more to share in

your college essays.

11TH GRADE

By junior year, start zeroing in on your goals. You probably

have a good sense of your strengths and weaknesses,

topics or classes that spark your curiosity, and activities

you love. Double down on the foundation built in 9th

and 10th grade by setting and sticking to academic and

personal goals.

• Enroll in more challenging courses. Honors and AP

courses look great on your transcript and can make transitioning

to college-level coursework much easier. If you

take any AP tests and earn a high enough grade, your

college could award credit and save you some money.

• Take the PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT. The PSAT helps

identify the areas or skills needing improvement as you

prep for the SAT or ACT. Taking the PSAT during the fall

of your junior year also qualifies you for the National

Merit Scholarship Program. Take the SAT or ACT in

the spring of 11th grade, so you have plenty of time to

study and retest later, if necessary.

• Become a leader in your extracurriculars.

Colleges seek students with demonstrated leadership

experience in clubs, sports, or student groups. Taking

on more responsibility fosters personal growth and

strengthens your apps.

• Keep your school counselor updated on your goals

and progress. Connect with your counselor periodically

to keep them in the loop. Use meetings to discuss

specific college goals, questions about the application

process, or concerns about your grades.


• Build relationships with teachers and potential recommenders.

Many students ask for letters of recommendation

from their junior-year teachers. Participate

in class and cultivate personal relationships with your

favorite teachers — especially those teaching classes

related to a potential major.

• Keep refining your college list; plan your college

visits. To alleviate the stress of juggling senior year

and college applications, consider planning some early

college visits during the spring of 11th and the summer

before 12th grade. This approach helps you avoid missing

school or scheduling many visits in quick succession.

• Apply to summer opportunities related to potential

college majors. Take advantage of summer break before

senior year and application season begin by dedicating

yourself to a research project, summer course,

or other activity showcasing your interest in a particular

field or subject.

• Research scholarships. Over $1 billion in scholarship

and grant aid goes unclaimed annually — you’ve got

many options, but you’ll have to do some legwork to

find ones that work for you. Create a spreadsheet or

document to track potential scholarships, noting their

requirements and deadlines.

• Start thinking about your plans for early apps. Don’t

wait until senior year to start your applications. Talk to

seniors applying now and ask for tips. Use the spring

and summer to compile your accomplishments, brainstorm

and draft your personal statement, and prep for

the SAT or ACT.

12TH GRADE

Things ramp up in senior year. While juggling coursework,

extracurricular activities, and a social life, it’s college

application time. Most deadlines fall in January, so the first

semester of 12th grade can feel like a relentless sprint.

Applying early decision or early action further compresses

this timeline, shrinking prep time. Try to remain calm,

focused, and organized.

• Stay engaged in your courses and extracurriculars.

Colleges look for strong academic records and continued

engagement, especially in your senior year. Keep

prioritizing your grades and following through on your

commitments.

• Take/retake any standardized tests if necessary.

Many students take or retake the SAT or ACT in 12th

grade. If you’re applying early, your last testing date

falls in October; otherwise, you have until December

to raise your score.


• Finalize your college list and any early application

plans. Honestly assess how many applications you can

realistically complete within the given deadlines. To meet

early application deadlines, typically in November,

finalize all application components in advance.

• Develop a checklist to manage your application

materials. Start a spreadsheet, use a calendar, tape

lists on your bedroom walls — do whatever you need

to do to stay organized and on track to meet those

submission deadlines.

• Ask for letters of recommendation. To get strong

letters of recommendation, identify your preferred

recommenders and approach them early in the school

year so they have at least 4-6 weeks to write and upload

the letter.

• Request official score reports for the SAT/ACT be

sent to colleges requiring them. You must select

which colleges receive your scores. The first four colleges

receive the scores for free, but SAT charges $14 per

additional school.

• Keep your high school counselor updated and

request any relevant paperwork. Your counselor

submits your transcript and, in some cases, a letter of

recommendation to your chosen schools. When requesting

letters of recommendation, share your list of target

schools and provide relevant information highlighting

your strengths.

• Continue applying for scholarships. Don’t deprioritize

your scholarship search while applying to colleges. Use

the summer before 12th grade — and the spring after

you’ve sent your apps — to keep submitting scholarship

apps, too.

• Draft, edit, and finalize your personal statement and

supplemental essays. Writing essays is the most timeconsuming

part of the college application process.

However, the personal touch that comes from your

essays differentiates a good app from a great one. Give

yourself ample time to polish your essays so your final

drafts are ready at least a week before your deadline.

That way, you have time for one last read-through

before submitting.

• Complete all financial aid forms, including the FAFSA

and CSS Profile. If you’re applying for financial aid, submit

your forms by each school’s financial aid deadline.

Work with your parents to gather all the information;

try to submit your financial aid forms when you submit

your application.

Once all your application deadlines pass, you’ll have officially

survived admissions season! All that’s left? Maintaining

your grades and waiting for your “Congratulations on

your admission” email.

COLLEGE PLANNING CALENDAR & CHECKLIST

for 11th & 12th Grade

JUNIOR YEAR

FALL

• Take challenging courses and classes needed for

graduation.

• Sign up for a PSAT prep course.

• Register through your school for the PSAT in October.

(You can take the PSAT online.)

• Use this guide as a starting point to start searching

for your perfect college.

• Check out summer programs geared toward career

exploration. Not sure what career path to take? Talk to

your guidance counselor and take an assessment test

through your school or another organization like ASVAB’s

CEP Program.

SPRING

• Look into summer jobs, internships, summer programs,

and other career-inspiring programs that can boost your

resume and give you an idea of potential college majors.

• Attend college fairs hosted by your school or other local

colleges. Collect information and chat with college

representatives one-on-one.

• Register for the SAT/ACT and sign up for a prep course so

you’re ready for the May/June exam.

• Register for and take AP/IB exams.

• Start visiting colleges on your list. Explore the campus

and facilities, talk to students and professors, and create

a list of what makes each school unique.

WINTER

• Continue your college research, looking at websites,

“best of” lists, and student reviews. Take online

campus tours.

• Create a list of colleges you’d most like to visit.

Prepare questions and schedule in-person tours.

• Take free practice tests for the SAT and ACT to see

which test you perform better on.

• Start researching scholarship and financial

aid options.

SUMMER

• Request catalogs and admissions information from your

top-choice schools if you haven’t done so already.

• If you took the SAT/ACT for the first time in May/June but

want to improve your scores, take a summer prep course.

• Visit additional schools on your list.

• Look at the Common App essay topics for the current year;

brainstorm and outline a few essay ideas.

• Schedule an appointment with your guidance counselor or

independent consultant to discuss your college plans.

• Create an organizational system to keep track of top schools,

your information, and anything else related to your college

search process.

• Start working on the Common Application to get a head start

before senior year begins.

• If your colleges require an interview or audition, verify the

specific guidelines and deadlines and sign up for your slot —

note that interviews can be hard to get, so sign up early

to get your first choice.


SENIOR YEAR

SEPTEMBER

• Finalize your list of reach, target, and safety schools.

• Identify which colleges accept the Common Application

and which require a different application.

• Work on completing your college application(s) and essays.

• Determine whether you’ll apply early action, early decision,

or regular admission.

• Ask your teachers, counselors, and employers to write your

letters of recommendation.

• Register for the October SAT/ACT if you’re taking it again.

OCTOBER

• Last opportunity to take the SAT/ACT for early applications.

• Fine-tune your college essays; ask a trusted teacher or

friend to proofread them.

• Continue working on your college application and submit it

if you’ve chosen to apply early to a particular school.

• Submit your CSS Profile, which colleges use to award

financial aid.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

• Confirm that people you’ve asked for letters of recommendation

have submitted them.

• Create a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

account — and ask your parents/guardians to create an

account.

• Most colleges that require auditions/interviews wrap them

up in December.

• Submit completed applications and essays to the rest of

the schools on your list.

• Continue researching scholarship opportunities.

• Wait for early acceptance letters/emails.

JANUARY

• Submit your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1.

• Confirm the colleges you applied to in December received

your completed application.

• Ask your guidance counselor to send your mid-year grades/

unofficial transcripts to colleges requiring them.

• Check the policies on the College Level Examination

Program (CLEP) tests at schools you might attend.

FEBRUARY

• Submit your FAFSA if you haven’t done so already. If you

submitted it but haven’t received your FAFSA Submission

Summary within three business days, speak to your counselor

or contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center.

• Submit your CSS/Financial Aid Profile if you haven’t done so

yet (it’s usually due in February).

• Confirm that all the schools you applied to have received midyear

transcripts, exam scores, financial aid information, and

any other initial required documents/information.

MARCH

• If you’re taking AP/IB exams, check with your teachers or

guidance counselor for recommendations on preparing.

• Continue researching potential scholarships and grants to

help reduce tuition costs.

• Wait for admissions decisions from the schools you applied

to — and for any additional information the schools might

request.

APRIL

• Keep checking your mail and email for admissions decisions

and financial aid letters.

• If you’ve been waitlisted, notify the college/university if you’re

still interested; ask whether the school will accept a letter of

continued interest.

• If you’ve chosen your school, send your enrollment form and

deposit.

• Notify other schools of your decision so they can offer your

spot to waitlisted students.

MAY

• Take AP/IB exams you registered for and indicate the school(s)

that should receive your scores.

• Write thank-you notes to everyone who helped you with the

college admissions process, including those who wrote

personal letters of recommendation, your guidance counselor,

and your teachers.

• Double-check deadlines and last-minute paperwork your

school might require.

• Study for your high school final exams — keep your grades up

and end the year strong.

• Plan to attend new student orientation at your college.

JUNE

• Ask your guidance counselor to send your final transcript to

your new college.

• Complete any final paperwork required by the school.

• Graduate from high school!


SAT TEST DATES

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

TEST DATE

February 21, 2025 March 8, 2025

April 18, 2025 May 3, 2025

May 22, 2025 June 7, 2025

TBD: Check the website August 23, 2025

TBD: Check the website September 13, 2025

TBD: Check the website October 4, 2025

TBD: Check the website November 8, 2025

TBD: Check the website December 6, 2025

TBD: Check the website March 14, 2026

TBD: Check the website May 2, 2026

TBD: Check the website June 6, 2026

ACT TEST DATES

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

TEST DATE

March 14, 2025 April 12, 2025

May 7, 2025 June 7, 2025

June 20, 2025 July 19, 2025

Projected dates for 2025-2026 - check the website

August 8, 2025 September 13, 2025

September 19, 2025 October 25, 2025

November 7, 2025 December 13, 2025

January 2, 2026 February 7, 2026

March 6, 2026 April 11, 2026

May 8, 2026 June 13, 2026

June 12, 2026 July 18, 2026


ADMISSIONS

JOURNEY

THE WHITAKER FAMILY

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

In high school, Sebastian and Ashby Whitaker were ambitious,

high-achieving students — but that doesn’t mean

tackling college applications came easily. Like many students,

they were excited by the idea of applying to top-tier

schools but not sure how to make their applications stand

out. Sebastian and Ashby’s mom, Dana, wanted them to

have the best chance of admission to their top schools.

Instead of going it alone, they chose to work with CollegeAdvisor

on Sebastian’s and then Ashby’s applications.

With their advisors’ guidance and support, Sebastian and

Ashby learned how to build balanced college lists and write

compelling application essays that helped both land a spot

at their dream schools.

BUILDING A COLLEGE LIST

Sebastian approached his advisor with a handful of dream

schools: Georgetown, University of Virginia, and Notre

Dame. As Sebastian began exploring other colleges and

universities, he saw commonalities among the schools on

his list. He realized he was most drawn to larger, high-level

colleges with strong athletic departments. Knowing what

attracted him helped him fine-tune his list.

On the other hand, Ashby wanted a school that aligned

with her career goals and interests. She started by looking

for international studies and foreign relations programs

and then narrowed her list, which ultimately included

schools like Johns Hopkins, Pepperdine, and, like her

brother, Notre Dame.

College applications take time, so building an honest and

realistic college list saves time and reduces stress. Instead

of spending hours on application essays for a college that

doesn’t spark excitement, follow Sebastian and Ashby’s

lead. Consider every aspect, including the college’s size,

location, school culture, and academic offerings, to find a

school that fits you.

WRITING AUTHENTIC ESSAYS

Many students struggle to write essays for college applications,

and Ashby and Sebastian were no exception.

Sebastian struggled with putting his personality into words.

He said his first few drafts read like resumes — informative

and impersonal — and shared more about what he did

than who he was. He’s not alone! Many students approach

their essays not knowing how to make them engaging and

personal. However, with his advisor’s help, Sebastian stuck

with the writing process and each draft evolved into a more

introspective, honest, and communicative essay.

When it comes to writing essays, you’ll hear this advice

again and again: start early. This tip helped Ashby succeed

because instead of cramming all her essays into the fall of

her senior year, Ashby began brainstorming and writing

in the spring of her junior year. Even without the official

prompts, Ashby used this time to explore what she wanted

to showcase and how to do so in her own voice. When the

application windows officially opened, she didn’t have to

second guess herself or her goals with her essays.

STAYING ORGANIZED AND COMMITTED

Whether you’re working with your family, an advisor, or a

group of friends on your college applications, submitting

those apps depends on you — your commitment, your

dedication, and your willingness to dream big. As Sebastian

and Ashby’s mother, Dana, said, “[Each application] is only

as good as what the student puts into it and how much

work they give.”

Staying ahead of college essay (and application) deadlines

while keeping up with senior year commitments isn’t easy,

but a little help and determination kept Sebastian and

Ashby on track. Their hard work and dedication resulted in

admission for both at their dream school: Notre Dame.

Want to learn more about the

Whitaker family’s college journey?

Scan or click the QR code to read the

full story on CollegeAdvisor.com.


UNDERSTANDING

U.S. COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

ervous about embarking on your college

admissions journey? You’re not alone — every

year, countless students begin the college

application process, tackling everything from

application essays to financial aid forms and

numerous other requirements. In the 2023-2024 cycle,

over 1.4 million students applied through the Common

App alone, with many more applying through other

application platforms.

As an increasing number of students apply to college,

and article after article focuses on the increasing difficulty

of getting into college, is it time to panic? Not at all! Yes,

the most selective colleges continue to report single-digit

acceptance rates. However, average acceptance rates

across the country are much closer to 70%.

While landing a spot at your dream school isn’t easy,

it’s far from impossible. In fact, the college application

process is more manageable than you might think! Your

first step toward getting in? Becoming familiar with the

admissions process.

ACCEPTANCE RATES

Acceptance rates reflect the number of applicants a

school admits from its total applicant pool — and those

rates can vary drastically from as low as 3% up to 100%

of applicants. Acceptance rates vary annually, depending

on the number of applications and available spaces. Rates

can also vary by admissions plan. For example, while Yale’s

regular acceptance rate for the class of 2028 was 2.75%,

its early acceptance rate was 9.02%.


Low acceptance rates can make some schools feel totally

out of reach, but don’t let that deter you from applying!

Many prestigious colleges and universities have low acceptance

rates simply because they attract so many applicants.

Don’t obsess over a school’s acceptance rate;

focus on whether the school is a good fit for you. If so, your

best strategy for improving your chances is understanding

how to impress the admissions team by highlighting your

strengths in your application.

HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS

If you want to crack the code on college admissions, you

should understand the term “holistic admissions.” The vast

majority of schools in the U.S. follow a holistic approach in

their application review. These schools evaluate every aspect

of your application — not just grades and test scores

— to determine if you’re a good fit.

Beyond your academic accomplishments, colleges want to

know what makes you, well, you. They’re interested in:

• Challenges you’ve faced • Your passions

• Goals you’ve set

• Your values

Those other “ingredients” aside, your academic history

remains a critical factor that will heavily influence their

decision. Looking at the average GPA and test scores of

admitted students can give you an idea of how well your

academic background aligns with a school’s expectations.

TYPES OF ADMISSIONS PLANS

Colleges typically divide their application process into

several deadlines, which we’ve categorized into four main

admission types.

• Early Decision: A binding admissions plan for students

applying to their first-choice school. You can only apply

to one school via ED. If accepted, you must accept your

offer of admission. ED deadlines generally fall in early to

mid-November.

• Early Action: A non-binding admissions plan for students

who want to apply early but keep their options

open. Early action allows you to apply to multiple

schools early. However, restrictive early action (like ED)

permits early application to only one school. Early

action deadlines also fall in early to mid-November.

• Regular Decision: The most common application deadline.

You can apply to as many schools as you want with

no commitment to attend any school that admits you.

Regular decision deadlines typically fall in early January,

although some dates may be earlier or later, depending

on the school.

• Rolling Admissions: A flexible admissions process

where schools review applications as they are submitted.

You can apply anytime during the application

window, and decisions are typically made within a few

weeks of submission. Since there is no fixed deadline,

these schools encourage students to apply early as

spots may fill quickly.

Each admissions plan has pros and cons, so be sure to

consider your personal preferences, time constraints, and

your level of commitment before choosing your strategy.

APPLICATION PLATFORMS

There are different ways to submit your application.

Each application platform has its own interface and

unique application requirements. The most commonly

used application platform is the Common Application,

but it’s not the only option.

Common Application: A centralized college application that

connects students with 1000+ colleges and universities. You

create an account, add schools to your list, and complete a base

application to send to every school on your list. You can also work

on school-specific questions and essays and then submit your

final applications.

Coalition Application: An application platform designed

to support low-income and underrepresented students. Fewer

schools accept this application, but they tend to offer generous

financial aid packages and low-cost tuition.

QuestBridge Application: A unique application for highachieving,

low-income students. Finalists of the National College

Match program can apply to up to 15 partner schools. Selected

students gain a full, four-year scholarship if admitted to their

top choice school.

School-Specific Applications: Individualized applications

offered by specific schools or school systems. For example,

Georgetown University requires potential students to apply via

the Georgetown Application. The UC system (e.g., UC Berkeley,

UCLA, UC San Diego) requires potential students to submit the

UC Application.

Your school choices and background will dictate which

application to use.


COLLEGE ADMISSIONS STRATEGY:

Deadlines & Major Declaration

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

s you narrow down your college list, think

about how different admissions plans and

your decision to declare a major (or not) will

affect your application experience. Both are

critical components of your overall strategy.

Your choices can significantly influence your chances of

acceptance, so it’s important to understand the pros and

cons of each.

EARLY DECISION VS. EARLY ACTION

VS. REGULAR DECISION

Applying early certainly has benefits — you’ll know sooner,

and you might only have to submit one application — but

applying early isn’t for everyone. Understanding the benefits

and drawbacks of each admissions plan will help you

decide which makes the most sense for you.

EARLY DECISION (ED)

If your heart is set on a school, applying early decision might

make sense. This strategy shows the school that it’s your

first choice and you’re committed to attending if accepted.

• It is a binding agreement. ED acceptance will require

you to withdraw all other applications.

• ED deadlines typically fall at the beginning or middle

of November. Decisions are typically released in mid-

December.

• If you choose ED, you can’t apply to other schools early,

but you can apply via regular decision.

Receiving an early acceptance can help relieve stress, and

many students choose ED to boost their admissions odds.

However, the commitment also has its drawbacks:

• If accepted, you’ll have no flexibility to compare

financial aid offers from other schools.

• You’ll have less time to prepare your application and

will need to start on other applications while you wait

for your decision.

• Since senior fall grades aren’t part of the application,

colleges will rely on your GPA and courses from freshman

through junior years.

EARLY ACTION (EA)

Early action offers a more flexible early application option.

You’ll still receive your admissions decision earlier but

without the pressure to commit.

• EA is non-binding, so you don’t have to accept your

offer of admission.

• EA deadlines also fall in November, with admissions

decisions coming out mid-December.

• There are two types of EA deadlines: early action and

restrictive early action. Early action permits applications

to multiple schools, but restrictive early action allows

applications to just one school early.

• Whether you choose EA or REA, you can still apply to

other schools via regular decision.

If admitted early action, you get all the benefits of early

decision without many drawbacks. Whatever the outcome,

you can apply to other schools, compare financial aid packages,

and hold off on making final decisions until May 1st.

However, you’re still under the pressure of an earlier deadline

and will need to apply without your senior year grades.

REGULAR DECISION (RD)

The majority of college applicants apply regular decision.

The main advantage? Extra time to prepare your applications.

Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to take the SAT or ACT

again later and the added benefit of including fall grades

on your transcript.

• RD is non-binding, so if multiple colleges offer admission,

you can weigh the pros and cons of each before making

a decision.

• RD deadlines often fall in early January; however, some

may come as early as November, and others fall later in

February. Colleges release regular admissions decisions

in mid-March to early April.

• RD allows unlimited applications, although many students

cap their college applications at 10-12 schools.

Applying RD gives you the full flexibility to compare schools

and financial aid options. The downside? A longer wait before

you receive your decision and a larger pool of applicants.


MYTHS ABOUT EARLY ADMISSIONS

MYTH 1:

COLLEGES ONLY HAVE ONE

EARLY DECISION OR EARLY

ACTION DEADLINE.

FALSE: Colleges can have

multiple early deadlines. For

example, the University of

Chicago offers four application

deadlines: EA, ED I, ED II, and

RD. While these later deadlines

aren’t technically “early,” ED

II plans are still binding and

demonstrate your commitment

to attending if accepted.

MYTH 3:

IF YOU AREN’T ADMITTED

EARLY, YOU AREN’T

GETTING IN.

FALSE: If you apply ED/EA,

you could be deferred, and your

application revisited with the

other RD applicants. Should you

receive a deferral notice, you’ll

have to wait until the spring to

receive your final decision. If

you’re deferred and then

accepted, you don’t have to

accept the admission offer.

MYTH 2:

APPLYING EARLY

INCREASES YOUR CHANCES

OF ADMISSION.

FALSE: A higher percentage

of applicants are admitted

ED/EA than RD applicants.

However, early application

cycles also tend to draw more

highly qualified applicants.

You’ll be competing against

other stellar students,

so you need to do more to

stand out.

MYTH 4:

IF YOU ARE ADMITTED EARLY,

YOUR SENIOR YEAR GRADES

DON’T MATTER.

FALSE: Most college

acceptance letters are

conditional, meaning colleges

can absolutely revoke your

offer of admission if there

are concerns — typically if

your senior-year grades drop

significantly.

DECLARING A MAJOR VS. GOING UNDECIDED

Another key decision in the admissions process: declaring

your major. It’s completely normal to be unsure about what

you want to study — you’re definitely not alone! Fortunately,

there’s an alternative: declaring yourself as “undecided.”

WHAT DOES DECLARING A MAJOR MEAN?

College applications include an “Academics” section that

asks you to indicate your intended area of study. You may

be asked to select a major, a major and minor, or your

top two to three majors of interest. Some colleges require

you to declare a major on your application (but that doesn’t

mean you’re locked in for your entire college career).

Other college applications don’t have that requirement.

• Declaring a major shows admissions your plan and

may qualify you for specific scholarships and opportunities.

Conversely, declaring can lead to more competitive

admissions and potentially limit your flexibility to take

courses outside your major once you begin your studies.

• Applying undecided allows you to explore different

subject areas while fulfilling your general education

requirements. Plus, admissions officers will appreciate

your honesty. A caveat: you may find it harder to declare

certain majors later or need to catch up on introductory

and prerequisite courses you didn’t take freshman year.

IF I DECLARE MY MAJOR, AM I STUCK WITH IT?

Not at all — schools may ask for your top-choice majors,

but you have the freedom to change programs once you’ve

started school. Most U.S. colleges give students the flexibility

to explore and change their major as needed. In fact, schools

like Pomona College or Brown University admit students

to the school, not a specific major. Asking you to declare a

major on your application is a way to gauge your interests,

not cement your commitment to a particular program.

However, if a school does admit by major, things can get

a bit tricker. For instance, the UC system considers certain

majors selective/high-demand/capped. Admissions can’t

admit every qualified student who applies. Applying with a

declared major often increases your chances of acceptance

to these competitive programs, which become even more

competitive after your initial enrollment.

BUILDING AN ADMISSIONS STRATEGY

When it comes to declaring a major or choosing an admissions

plan, there’s no wrong answer. Carefully weigh the

pros and cons of applying early and see if it fits you. If you

declare “undecided,” highlight the breadth of your interests

in your application. If you declare a major, reflect on how

it fits into your overall story, and include relevant essays,

activities, and letters of recommendation to back it up.

Ultimately, the best college admissions strategy is the one

aligned with your individual needs and goals — and that

leaves room for the possibilities ahead. Remember to research

your preferred colleges' specific policies and deadlines

thoroughly, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from

your school counselor or a college admissions advisor.

Good luck!


ACTIVITIES THAT HELP YOU

STAND OUT ON YOUR COLLEGE APPLICATION

BY JODI IRELAND

housands of people apply to colleges and universities

every year, and differentiating yourself

from the other applicants can feel pretty daunting.

Some kids already know their dream school

or major at the beginning of high school — or even

sooner — and may participate in extracurriculars and

other activities to set themselves up for acceptance into a

specific school or program. But it’s okay if you don’t!

Whether you started early thinking about how to beef

up your college application or not, there’s no better time

than the present to start. Check out our list of ideas.

PURSUE YOUR INTERESTS

If you’ve had a passion since elementary school, absolutely

know your career path, and are determined to

attend a top-tier institution, this section’s for you. Top

colleges, including the Ivies, want students who are

engaged and passionate about their fields. Taking a class

or joining a club related to your interests isn’t enough.

These institutions expect to see evidence of sustained,

high-level commitment, which might involve conducting

independent research, interning with a local organization,

or advocating for a cause you care deeply about.

Some advisors suggest starting early, with high school

freshmen exploring interests through introductory classes,

extensive reading, and relevant club memberships.

Sophomores and juniors should seek more advanced

opportunities, such as internships, research projects, or

leadership roles within their chosen areas.

Don’t despair if you’re on a different timeline, however.

If you don’t find your core interest until you’re in 10th or

11th grade, it’s not too late to dig deep and get granular,

building your understanding to showcase your knowledge

when it’s time to apply. Since your interests may

have evolved — and honestly, whose don’t? — highlight

that evolution and growth in your application essay.

But what if you really don’t know what you’d like to do

when you grow up? That’s okay, too! Colleges want to

see applicants with unique backgrounds and perspectives.

Plenty of other extracurriculars may align with

your interests!

ACADEMIC CLUBS

Chemistry club, debate team, French club, math leagues,

science fairs, or scholastic scrimmage represent a few

ways to showcase your intellectual curiosity and talents.

Participating in these clubs strengthens college applications

and opens doors to lasting friendships, personal

growth, and exciting opportunities.

Being a member of your school’s robotics team or coding

club can highlight your problem-solving, teamwork, and

technology skills, making you stand out in a competitive

college application process. Plus, clubs provide avenues

to compete for national — and even international — recognition.

Some clubs offer merit-based scholarships or

internships that can reduce the burden of college tuition.

ATHLETICS AND SPORTS

High school sports offer more than physical benefits;

they teach life skills like teamwork, discipline, time

management, and leadership. Whether you play a team

sport such as soccer or basketball or an individual sport

like tennis or track, participating shows you can balance

academics and athletics. Colleges value students who can

manage competing priorities, and excelling in sports can

lead to athletic scholarships to help reduce costs. Leadership

roles such as team captain demonstrate your ability

to motivate others, resolve conflicts, and take initiative.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Community service allows you to give back, build character,

and develop empathy, leadership, and teamwork

skills (among others). Volunteering helps you connect


with like-minded individuals and deepen your understanding

of your community’s needs, whether you work

at a food bank, tutor students, or help with environmental

efforts. The College Board said college admissions

officers view community service as a key component —

along with academic achievement, extracurriculars, and

personal qualities — they use to evaluate applicants.

CREATIVE AND ARTISTIC PURSUITS

Use your creative talents in visual arts, music, theater,

or writing to enhance your college applications. Participate

in summer camps and showcases. Take other

classes to help build your portfolio. Highlight your

artistic pursuits on your application and send a sample

(if allowed), or sign up for an audition if it’s part of the

college application process.

ENTREPRENEURIAL PROJECTS

Have an idea that would make the world a better place?

You don’t have to wait until you graduate from high

school to start! Entrepreneurial projects are a great way

to showcase your creativity, leadership, and problemsolving

skills. Whether you start a small business, organize

a community event, or develop a solution for

a local problem, these projects demonstrate initiative

and a desire to make a difference. An added bonus? If

your project addresses a real-world need, you may even

qualify for a scholarship!

INTERNSHIPS

Internships give you hands-on experience, allowing you

to explore career interests, take on meaningful responsibilities,

and hone your communication, problem-solving,

and teamwork skills. These experiences show colleges

you’re serious about your future career and committed

to learning more about it.

Interning in a field related to your planned major —

law, technology, medicine — demonstrates initiative and

focus. Beyond new skills, you gain networking opportunities

with professionals, which can lead to future job

prospects or mentorships.

LEADERSHIP ROLES

High school is the perfect time to develop your leadership

skills by taking on these roles in clubs, sports teams,

other student organizations, or even at your part-time

job. You’ll get hands-on experience managing, organizing,

taking initiative, and making decisions — necessary

abilities colleges and future employers seek. Leadership

roles teach you to communicate effectively, motivate

others, and manage group dynamics while also learning

from mentors and building confidence and a sense

of accountability.

PART-TIME JOBS

Another great way to develop real-world skills, build your

resume, and stand out in college applications? A parttime

job. About 80% of applicants to the University of

Cambridge have some work experience. You learn and

develop many skills like communication, customer service,

problem-solving, teamwork, and time management. You

also gain exposure to real-world scenarios, learning more

about different industries and professional environments.

Work experience doesn’t just help fill your bank account

or expand your resume. It shapes your perspectives and

expands your abilities. The maturity and personal growth

you gain from navigating real-world challenges are qualities

colleges appreciate. If your job is related to your

major — like interning at a hospital for a future in medicine

or working at a tech startup for a career in computer

science — you can potentially gain an edge in the admissions

process.

SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL

INNOVATIONS

If you love all things science and tech-related, seek out

extracurricular opportunities to build on that love. From

coding and robotics to science fairs and gaming, these activities

show colleges you’re curious, creative, and eager

to make a difference in the world. Have an idea for a new

app? Several excellent programs, like MIT’s App Inventor,

Glide, Thunkable, and MAD-learn, will teach and guide

you through the process.

WHAT TO CHOOSE?

This list is just a small sampling of extracurriculars out

there. Our advice? Choose one (or more) that speaks to

you and sparks your interest. And if the club you want

doesn’t exist (yet), start your own! Creating a club demonstrates

many skills college admissions officers value, too,

like initiative and leadership.


CREATING A HIGH SCHOOL RESUME

BY JODI IRELAND

he cool thing about high school resumes? You don’t

need to stress if you have little (or no) work experience

to include. You just have to think outside the

box. Use it to showcase any (or all) of your:

• Academic achievements

• Extracurricular activities

• Leadership roles

• Awards

• Community service

• Work experiences

Believe it or not, it’s worth crafting a one-page resume.

Looking for a part-time job after school or on weekends?

Hand your resume to the potential employer.

Visiting colleges or attending college fairs? Hand out

copies of your resume to the admissions representatives

and counselors.

Applying to colleges? Some ask you to send a resume

along with the other application materials. It can give admissions

officers an overview of your achievements

and your potential.

Applying for scholarships? Some scholarship committees

request or recommend that applicants include a resume,

which you can use to showcase the qualities you have that

they’re looking for.


ESSENTIAL SECTIONS: WHAT TO INCLUDE ON YOUR RESUME

SECTION ONE: Contact info

The first (and most important) element of your resume is your

contact information — your name, phone number, and email

address. For privacy reasons, we don’t recommend including your

street address. If you have a LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or website

you created, include those URLs, too.

SECTION TWO: Objective

Think of this one- or two-sentence section as your elevator pitch.

Use it to quickly share who you are and what you offer. If you’re

applying to different jobs (or colleges), tweak it to highlight the

skills the specific job or program wants applicants to have.

For example, if you’re applying to film school, showcase your video

editing skills. If you’re applying for an entry-level marketing job,

highlight your sales and project management experience.

SECTION THREE: Education

This section should include your high school’s name, expected

graduation date, GPA (if above 3.0), and class rank (if applicable).

Next, include AP classes and any courses you’ve taken that

complement your planned major.

For example, if you’ve taken various coding language classes and

plan to go into computer engineering, include them. Add classes

you’ve taken at a local community college via dual enrollment. And

if you’ve received awards for honor roll, sports, or other academics,

include them here!

SECTION FOUR: Work Experience

Have a part-time babysitting gig or work weekends and summers

at a local amusement park? Add them here. Include the employer’s

name, location, how long you’ve been employed there, and your

job title. Then, include a sentence or two that explains your

responsibilities.

If you have little or no work experience, no worries! The next section

offers a place to spotlight your community service.

SECTION FIVE: Volunteering

Whether you’ve had formal employment or not, include volunteerism on

your resume. This work shows your commitment to community involvement

and can earn you bonus points with colleges and universities.

List the name of the organization, your length of involvement, your role,

and your responsibilities. Even if you only volunteered for a limited time,

it’s still worth mentioning.

SECTION SIX: Key Skills

Call out your talents, abilities, and strengths here. If you’re a math

whiz or a wordsmith, have tech skills like coding or computer building,

or you’re a musical virtuoso, actor, or artist, add those things here.

Include soft skills you’ve developed through working or volunteering,

like collaboration and customer service. And if you’re bilingual or

multilingual, add your language skills.

SECTION SEVEN: Extracurricular Activities

Play a sport? Participate in a club? Show off those extracurriculars

here — especially if you’ve prioritized these activities over holding

a job. List all your extracurricular clubs or teams, and highlight those

in which you’ve held a leadership position, like student council vice

president, captain of the softball team, or stage crew manager for

drama club.

Don’t forget to include any honors you’ve received that are not

school-related. For example, if you earned your Eagle Scout after

years of participating in Boy Scouts of America, mention it here.

Another benefit to including this section? It boosts super-involved

students who may not have the highest GPA but are well-rounded

and have different skills and strengths beyond academics.

BONUS SECTION: Hobbies and Interests

While a professional resume won’t include this section (though

LinkedIn has a spot), if you have other passions beyond what’s offered

at your high school, include them here. For example, if you love

computers and have built your own (and a few for friends and family)

and plan to go into a tech career, add a note here!

FINAL TIPS AND HINTS

When you create your resume draft, consider the

formatting — after all, you’re relying on this tool to

effectively communicate who you are and what you

have to offer.

• White space is your friend. Leave plenty of space

around each section and use one-inch margins.

• Use subheadings to make it easy for readers to scan

your resume. The section headings above work well.

• Contact info always comes first at the very top of

your resume.

• Use 10.5 point font — too small, and it’s hard to read;

too large, and the layout feels unbalanced.

• Bullet points work well for balance and white space.

Check out these example student

resumes for further inspiration. »


WRITING A WINNING ESSAY

WITHOUT RELYING ON AI

BY JODI IRELAND

ollege admissions officers (and professors,

too, for that matter) have gotten wise to essays

written using AI. The technology has certain

“tells,” like specific phrasing or words it uses

consistently. The overall tone of AI-written

content tends to be bland and fluff-filled, lacking

substance and short-changing creativity.

CORNELL’S ADMISSIONS

OFFICE IS PRETTY SPECIFIC

ABOUT ITS EXPECTATIONS:

Ethical uses of generative AI include

researching colleges, brainstorming essay topics,

and reviewing the grammar and spelling of your

completed essays. Unethical uses include

(but are not limited to) using generative

AI to outline, draft, or write

your essays.

CALTECH’S ADMISSIONS

OFFICE OFFERS THIS ADVICE TO

ASPIRING STUDENTS:

If you are still wondering whether your use of AI in

crafting your application is ethical, ask yourself

whether it would be ethical to have a trusted adult

perform the same task you are asking of ChatGPT.

Would a teacher be able to review your essay for

grammatical and spelling errors? Of course!

Would that same teacher write a draft of an essay

for you to tweak and then submit?

Definitely not.

College admissions officers aren’t necessarily expecting

completely polished, professional-sounding prose. What

they want to read is an interesting look into your life

— your experiences, goals, and aspirations — communicated

in your unique style and voice. If AI does the writing

for you, all that authenticity is lost.

Is it possible to write a solid essay without relying on AI?

Absolutely. Might it require more planning, fine-tuning,

and perhaps a read-through or two from others whose

opinions you trust? Sure. But it should 100% come from

you. That’s not to say you can’t or shouldn’t use AI at

all — but think of it as a tool to help you organize your

thoughts, suggest an alternative if you’re stuck on a particular

sentence, and check your grammar, mechanics,

and spelling. Here’s how you can start.

BRAINSTORM IDEAS, AN

OUTLINE AND EXAMPLES

AI tools can’t replicate the human

experience — specifically, your

experience — during the discovery

process. ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini

lack the capacity for genuine, spontaneous

conversation and the ability to

rummage through your memories or

understand the nuanced experiences

and emotions that have shaped

your identity.

Once you’ve chosen your prompt,

start generating a list of topics you

can write about. As you narrow

down your ideas, create a list of

examples — your experiences and

what you’ve learned — to incorporate

into the draft.


CREATE A HOOK

“Call me Ishmael.” “It was the best of times, it was the

worst of times…” “Mr. and Mrs. Dursely, of number four,

Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly

normal, thank you very much.”

A compelling hook can elevate an essay from decent to

exceptional. Your essay’s hook is critical in capturing the

reader’s interest — and keeping it. A strong introduction

may feature a personal anecdote, vivid image, or

thought-provoking observation, setting the stage for a

memorable essay.

INCORPORATE PERSONAL DETAILS

College applications leave little room to expand on what

makes you, well, you. Your essay offers a platform for

you to showcase your personality and provide greater

detail about your character, motivations, and aspirations.

All this added insight enhances your application and gives

admissions officers a more holistic look at your profile.

FIND YOUR VOICE

AI-generated content will never be more distinctive and

as authentic as content written by a human. Yet, developing

that original voice is one of the hardest challenges

of writing a memorable application essay. After all, your

voice helps readers understand who you are. It’s the lens

through which you view the world.

• Perspective is key. Your voice shines through when you

share your opinions and attitudes. It shows through the

details you share and why they matter to you.

• Vivid details and imagery animate your writing. Incorporate

figurative language (similes, metaphors, personification)

to deliver a richer reading experience.

• Embrace vulnerability, sharing your honest thoughts

and feelings. Incorporate interior monologue to reveal

your inner world. Don’t shy away from sharing assessments

about yourself, your relationships, and your

experiences.

• Inject humor, wordplay, and irony into your writing.

• Pay attention to your writing’s flow and pacing. Experiment

with sentence length, paragraph length, and

punctuation to create a unique rhythm. Stumped?

Try reading the lyrics of songs (or a favorite book)

that speak to you — what is it about the style and the

rhythm you love? Can you emulate it in your essay?

• Diction matters. Choose your words wisely, selecting

those that are precise, evocative, and meaningful.

Consider their connotations and associations. Experiment

with different levels of formality and dialect.

• Play around with sentence structure, varying length to

create variety and emphasis. Never underestimate the

power of a well-placed sentence fragment, either!

PROOFREAD AND EDIT

Here’s a tip I used to share with all my middle, high

school, and college writing students: Give yourself

enough time to write a draft and then put it aside to

marinate for a day or more. When you return with

fresh eyes, you may catch things you missed on an

initial read-through — whether grammatical errors or

clarification issues.

Another tip? Proofread what you’ve written by reading

backward. Start with the final sentence of the final paragraph

and read in reverse order, sentence by sentence.

Or if that’s too granular an approach, read the paragraphs

in reverse order. Why this madness? It interrupts

the natural flow of “normal” reading, where our brains

may substitute or unconsciously “fix” errors because,

after all, you wrote the thing so clearly you know what

should be there — even if it isn’t. Disrupting that natural

flow will help you catch odd turns of phrase or sentences

that could use a little TLC that, if you read from beginning

to end in the “normal” way, your brain might say is fine.

A third tip: Read your essay aloud or — better yet —

ask someone to read it aloud to you. Your ears will catch

things your eyes miss.

Find yourself facing a grammatical conundrum or an unwieldy

sentence you can’t seem to fix? Grammarly is fantastic

for identifying grammar, mechanical, and spelling

errors. A caveat: don’t just take Grammarly’s suggestions

at face value. Sometimes, it’s a little off — or you have a

good reason for using passive voice or incorporating a

sentence fragment. If you’re struggling to fix a sentence

you know doesn’t sound right but unsure how to improve

it, try the Hemingway App — or toss that sentence into

ChatGPT or another Gen-AI program and ask it for several

alternatives.

There’s nothing wrong with using AI as a tool — but if you

really want your essay to stand out from the crowd, don’t

take the easy route to bland, boring content generated

by a bunch of algorithms. Dig into your brain, sift through

your memories and experiences, and share your personality

through your writer’s voice instead.


WAITLISTED? NOW WHAT?

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

fter months of anticipation, learning you’ve

been waitlisted can feel like a huge letdown.

While better than an outright rejection, the

lack of clarity can create more questions

than answers — how long will I be on the

waitlist? What can I do to boost my chances? Is the waitlist

even worth it?

If you’re waitlisted, remember that you submitted a great

application. Not every potential student makes the waitlist,

and being waitlisted means the school counts you among

its most qualified applicants. Just because they didn’t have

space to admit you immediately doesn’t mean they won’t

in another few weeks or months. Let's clarify how college

waitlists work and next steps.

HOW DOES THE WAITLIST WORK?

Just as college applicants don’t know whether or not a

college will admit them, colleges don’t know if admitted

students will enroll. To ensure they fill all available spots,

colleges create waitlists — essentially a list of qualified

applicants that a school lacked the space to admit but

who nevertheless impressed the admissions team. As

spots open, schools will begin contacting those students

to offer admission. This process continues until the

incoming freshman class is full.

To secure your spot, you’ll need to officially accept your

position on the waitlist by submitting an online form.

Accepting your position on the waitlist is not a commitment,

so you don’t have to enroll if you’re admitted later.

In fact, you can be waitlisted at several schools. If that

happens, respond to each school individually.

WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING

OFF THE WAITLIST?

Getting off the waitlist is not common but not impossible.

In general, your chances depend on the school and how

many students they typically admit from it.

Some schools admit most waitlisted students, while

others admit just a fraction. Because most waitlists

are unranked, students have an equal chance of getting

in. If you know the school ranks its waitlist, try contacting

the admissions office to learn where you fall on

that list.

IF I’VE BEEN WAITLISTED, SHOULD I STILL

SUBMIT AN ENROLLMENT DEPOSIT TO

ANOTHER SCHOOL?

There are no guarantees with college waitlists, so

continue to make a plan for your future. If you are set

on attending college, you must submit an enrollment

deposit at a school that accepted you by the enrollment

deadline — typically May 1. Because enrollment deposits

are often nonrefundable, you can’t get that money

back, even if the waitlisted school admits you and you

choose to go there instead.

CAN I DO ANYTHING TO GET OFF

THE WAITLIST?

Yes! Try writing a letter of continued interest reaffirming

your desire to attend a school while providing

context that might sway the admissions committee.

However, not all schools accept these types of letters, so

check first. For instance, Georgia Tech does not accept

any additional information outside of its official Waitlist

Offer Reply Form.

If you can submit a letter of continued interest, do

so. Express your gratitude for the school’s continued

consideration, explicitly state your interest in attending,

and include any significant updates, including awards,

achievements, and other relevant details. Keep the tone

professional and concise, and avoid repeating details

from your original application. Once sent, focus on

keeping your grades up and enjoying the rest of your

senior year.


MAKING YOUR FINAL DECISION

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

ou did the research, worked tirelessly on your

applications, and waited patiently for months

— now, it’s decision time. Before jumping into

the pros and cons of each “yes” school and

stressing about which to pick, congratulate

yourself! You worked hard to earn those acceptances,

and you should be proud of yourself and excited about

the future.

As you think about your home for the next four years,

remember — you just need a little honesty, realism,

and forward-thinking to narrow things down. Here are

six tips to remember as you prepare to make your final

college decision.

WEIGH YOUR PRIORITIES

Many things in life are not a perfect fit — so be realistic

about what matters most to you. Maybe being closer to

home is more important than you initially thought, or

you’ve decided that a small school isn’t for you. As you

reflect, consider:

• Academics and programs

• Student life and campus culture

• Clubs, organizations, and activities

• Classroom experience

• Location and surroundings

• Housing and campus facilities

VISIT (OR REVISIT) THE CAMPUSES

If you haven’t been on campus yet, schedule a visit.

You can get a deeper sense of the atmosphere and

campus environment and talk to students and faculty.

If you visit in the spring, see whether the college hosts

an accepted students day. Some schools also offer fly-in

programs for eligible low-income students to give them

a chance to visit campus before enrolling.

Once on campus, you might get a gut feeling — something

incalculable that is hard to describe — telling you that this

is (or isn’t) the place for you. Lean into this feeling if you’re

stuck between two similar schools. After all the discussions,

comparisons, and research, in the end, you’ll

probably find that only one really feels like home.


CONSIDER THE COST

With your financial aid packages in hand, you can now

make an informed decision about what you and your

family can comfortably afford. The difference between a

school where you need loans versus a school offering a

free ride? Positively monumental. If you’re in this situation,

ask yourself honestly about the ROI.

Be sure to factor in expenses like traveling home to see your

family or living off-campus in an apartment. Research workstudy

jobs, if you qualify, and other potential on-campus

jobs, and consider how they can offset your costs.

THINK LONG-TERM

Beyond considering how college debt will affect your finances,

think about how a college sets you up for future success. A

strong alumni network offers significant advantages, connecting

graduates with industry professionals and helping them

secure internships and jobs after graduation. A college's reputation

carries weight, but don’t let prestige overshadow fit.

TALK TO PEOPLE YOU TRUST

While this decision is yours to make, you don’t have to go

through it alone. Discuss your options with parents, mentors,

and trusted peers to help you clarify your goals and zero in

on what you truly want. A caveat: It’s your path, your future,

and the next four years of your life. Whatever your decision,

make it with confidence.

DON’T FORGET YOUR PERSONAL VALUES

Finally, look at the college community and consider these

questions:

• Do you align with a school’s mission statement and values?

• Can you see tangible examples of how they support their

students?

• Is the student body diverse?

• Are there campus groups that interest you?

• Is there a sense of campus spirit and community?

Consider how a campus community can help you become

the person you want to be. A school where you feel

challenged, respected, and encouraged to grow and

contribute could be the perfect fit.

PART IV

PAYING

FOR COLLEGE


ADMISSIONS

JOURNEY

ERRONN BRIDGEWATER

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

On paper, Erronn had everything he needed to craft a

stellar college application — a strong academic record,

impressive extracurriculars, and a determination to

succeed. But as a first-generation, low-income (FGLI)

student, Erronn also knew the challenges ahead. He

wanted someone to guide him, cheer him on, and

keep him motivated.

After researching a few online college counseling

services, Erronn and his family decided to sign up

with CollegeAdvisor. He was matched with a Princeton

University graduate who played a key role in helping

him gain acceptance to his top-choice school.

BUILDING A CANDIDATE PROFILE

Throughout high school, Erronn got involved in

many extracurriculars. By graduation, his had a

pretty impressive resume:

• Varsity cross country

• Black Student Union

• Student body government

• National Honor Society

• Violin

• Tutoring

• Volunteering

By junior year, Erronn had became co-captain of his

cross-country team, and Khan Academy had invited him

to teach an SAT boot camp. But with college applications

fast approaching, he realized he needed to narrow his

focus and reprioritize.

Erronn continued his 8-year passion for violin and his

4-year commitment to volunteering with his church

community. He also seized an opportunity to bolster his

resume and learn something new. The summer before

senior year, he landed an internship at Brookhaven

National Laboratory’s High School Research Program in

their physics department. Despite no prior experience

in physics, he called it one of the best experiences of his

life — and it even helped him figure out his future major!

NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID

Financial aid was a major factor in choosing a college.

Erronn applied to QuestBridge’s National College Match

program, which connects high-achieving, low-income

students with partner schools like Cornell, Stanford, and

Duke, among others. Although selected as a finalist, he

didn’t match with any of his top-choice schools. Undeterred,

Erronn worked with his advisor to strategize his next steps

and focus on his application essays.

Without the QuestBridge scholarship, Erronn had to take a

traditional approach to applying for financial aid — but he

had guidance. He collaborated closely with his advisor and

CollegeAdvisor’s financial aid team to answer all application

questions and submit his documents on time. Whenever he

needed help with school-specific questions or contacting a

financial aid office, his advisor coached him on exactly what

to say in emails or over the phone.

MAKING A FINAL DECISION

When admissions decisions arrived, Erronn was thrilled to

learn he’d been accepted to several schools on his list. After

weighing the pros and cons of each, he narrowed it down to

NYU and Colgate University, his top picks. He took his time

deciding, comparing physics programs, considering potential

minors and which school would support him the best. In the

end, he decided NYU was the perfect fit.

Throughout the whole process, Erronn learned about his

own strengths and how to turn his goals into reality. Managing

deadlines, staying organized, and tackling challenges

head-on helped him build discipline — skills he applied to

his applications and his academic work. His biggest piece of

advice for future applicants? “Trust in the process, trust in

whoever is helping you, and trust in yourself, and know you’ll

get through it no matter where you go. You’ll just do great.“

Interested in hearing more

about Erronn’s journey?

Scan or click the QR code to read the

full story on CollegeAdvisor.com.


HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE

(and Not Break the Bank)

BY JODI IRELAND & STEFANIE TEDARDS

hether your parents started saving for

your college education when you were

a newborn or you began saving money

from shoveling snow, mowing lawns, or

babysitting, you and your family have

many ways to tackle college expenses. It’s a good thing,

too, because prices continue to rise, with average tuition

and fees increasing 5.5% at private colleges and between

2.2% and 2.4% at public universities in 2024-25, according

to recent data from U.S. News.

AVERAGE TOTAL COST OF COLLEGE BY SCHOOL TYPE AND INSTITUTIONAL CONTROL

(PRIVATE SCHOOLS), 2000-2021

$60,000

$50,000

$40,000

$30,000

$20,000

$10,000

Private Nonprofit Four-Year

Private For-Profit Two-Year

Private Nonprofit Two-Year

Private For-Profit Four-Year

$0

2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020

AVERAGE COLLEGE TUTION & FEES AT RANKED COLLEGES, 2024-2025

Private

$43,505

AVERAGE TOTAL COST OF COLLEGE BY SCHOOL TYPE AND INSTITUTIONAL CONTROL

(PUBLIC SCHOOLS), 2000-2021

PublicTwo-Year

Public Four-Year

Public, out-of-state

$24,513

$25,000

$20,000

Public, in-state

$11,011

$15,000

$10,000

$5,000

$0

2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020


Do these soaring prices mean college is out of your budget?

Not necessarily. Often, the sticker price listed on a college

or university website is not what students pay. Many factors

go into calculating your final cost, like your grades, annual

family income, available grants the institution has to award,

and much more. You can even go onto your top schools’

websites and look for their net price calculator, which will

help you estimate how much tuition might cost you.

But let’s back up a few steps. If college is a few years off,

you can start saving now so those price tags don’t look quite

so hefty once you’re ready to make your choice.

INCREASE COLLEGE SAVINGS BEFORE

GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL

1. Education savings accounts (ESA)

These accounts allow parents and family members to

contribute toward your education — and you can draw on

funds to pay for tuition, books, uniforms, transportation,

and other costs. The most popular ESAs? Coverdell accounts

and 529 plans.

A Coverdell ESA permits $2,000 in annual deposits per

beneficiary until you turn 18. While the money isn’t tax deductible,

the account will grow tax-free — and withdrawals

for qualified education expenses are also tax-free.

A 529 plan is more flexible, with higher contribution limits:

$18,000 annually or $36,000 for couples filing taxes jointly.

Total contributions vary by state and range between

$235,000 to $575,000 as of 2024. You can use these plans

to pay for higher education expenses, including tuition,

room and board, and more. Some states allow withdrawals

from these plans to pay for K-12 tuition, too.

2. Take AP or IB classes (and exams)

AP and IB classes offer college-level coursework in high

school. If you take the associated exams and score high

enough, your chosen college may award you credit and

exempt you from having to take a similar class. The test fee

(around $125) is significantly less than the cost of a threecredit

course, and it frees your schedule to take other

classes instead.

3. Consider dual enrollment while in high school

If your high school offers this program, you can earn

college credits at your local community or four-year college

at a much lower cost than taking those same classes

once you’re a full-time college student. Essentially, you’re

“pre-paying” for part of your degree while still in high

school. Some states provide funding to support these

programs, so you may not have to pay anything at all!

By earning credits early, you can potentially reduce

the number of semesters you need to earn your

degree, graduate sooner, and save on tuition.

4. Student aid index calculated by FAFSA

The Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA)

is an application you and your parents complete to

determine your need-based and non-need-based

federal student aid. Non-need-based aid includes

Parent PLUS and unsubsidized student loans. Needbased

aid includes Pell grants, subsidized student

loans, and work-study. FAFSA makes its determination

based on parent and student income and assets.

Pro tip: Pay attention to timing. Colleges calculate

financial aid awards based on the “prior-prior year”

— in other words, your parents’ tax return from the

year you were a high school sophomore (or firstsemester

junior). Your parents should meet with

a financial planner when you start high school (or

even earlier) to organize their financial life because

if they’re not careful, it can artificially inflate their

expected family contribution (EFC).

5. Scholarships and grants

You may think you have to wait until you’ve been

accepted to college before you begin applying for

scholarships, but many organizations award scholarships

to high school — and even middle school —

students. The awards are banked until you graduate

and need the funds. If you have a little downtime

during your summer breaks, check out available

scholarships and grants you can apply for once

you know what college you’re attending. And there

are hundreds and hundreds available. In fact, over

$2,100,000 in grant and scholarship money goes

unclaimed every single year.

6. Get a part-time job

The average hourly salary for high school students

working part-time climbed to just over $17/hr in

2024. That’s not too shabby! The U.S. Department

of Labor divides working papers into two age categories:

blue for 14 and 15-year-olds and green for

16- and 17-year-olds still in school.

Pro tip: If you’re in high school and pay for some of


your expenses, like a car or car insurance, clothing, or

extracurriculars, create a budget. It’ll help you track how

much you earn, where you spend, and where you can

save a little more.

7. Ask for cash gifts and save up

Whether you work part-time, receive money for holiday

or birthday gifts, or earn an allowance or a few bucks

doing extra chores around the house, earmark a portion

of that income for savings. Parents, you can encourage

more savings by matching your child’s deposits

dollar-for-dollar.

If you’re heading to college in the next few years, talk to

your parents about getting everyone’s finances in order.

By taking proactive steps now, like exploring scholarships

and grants, understanding financial aid options, and building

good credit, you can ease the financial burden of a

college education.

EARN MONEY WHILE EARNING YOUR DEGREE

For many students, particularly those from low-income

families, earning a college degree comes at a steep cost.

Beyond tuition and housing, students need money for

textbooks, clothes, food, and their social lives. As a result,

many students split their time between academics,

extracurriculars, and part-time jobs.

According to the Department of Labor Statistics, about 44%

of students at 4-year colleges work while they study, whether

a few hours on the weekends or several shifts spaced

throughout the week. Managing a job and classes may feel

intimidating, but it’s also a great way to get real-world experience,

gain independence, improve your work ethic, and

prepare for your first professional role after graduation.

8. Work-study jobs

Over 400,000 students are part of the federal workstudy

program, which provides part-time jobs to students

with demonstrated financial need. Typically,

it’s awarded as part of your financial aid package;

however, you’ll still need to find and apply for a

position once school starts. Once you’ve found a

work-study job, the school pays you directly.

Work-study jobs are generally on-campus and flexible,

making it easy to fit into your schedule. You might work

just one or two hours between classes or have a few

longer shifts throughout the week. Positions can include

administrative assistant, tutor, researcher, or laboratory

aide roles. While you might find a job within your department

that relates to your major, there’s no guarantee.

Most schools have a student job board advertising

available jobs. Some are open to all students — others

only hire students with a federal work-study allotment.

Salary and hours will depend on your job.

9. Part-time jobs

If you don’t qualify for work-study, you’ll find plenty of

other part-time jobs on and off campus. You can try

working at campus facilities, like the gym or the library,

or giving guided tours to prospective students. Plenty of

students find work in local businesses, including coffee

shops, restaurants, and clothing stores. You can also

babysit, look for freelance work online, or turn one of

your skills into a part-time gig.

If you decide to work off campus, look for a job with

flexible hours. For instance, some restaurants may only

need help on Fridays and Saturdays, but do you really

want to sacrifice all of your weekends? Keep your search

close to campus to avoid spending hours commuting on

the train or in the car.

10. Thinking outside the box

Looking for other ways to earn money in college?

Consider a research grant. Many colleges will fund

students interested in independent research projects.

For example, Northwestern University offers a $4,000

Summer Undergraduate Research Grant that can cover

your housing and research-related expenses. Programs

like this offer a great way to earn (and save) money for

the upcoming school year.

You can also find one-off opportunities to make cash,

including donating plasma, participating in research

studies, or completing online surveys. You can usually

get on an email list for updates on future research

projects seeking participants.

PRIORITIZE A WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Working during college means you’ll have two jobs: your

part-time job and full-time courses. Balancing all your

commitments requires maximizing your productivity and

cultivating time management skills. To avoid burnout,

prioritize your homework, be realistic about your hours,

and give yourself time to rest and recharge. It might take

some trial and error, but with the right approach, you'll find

a rhythm that works.


FIRST GENERATION LOWER INCOME (FGLI)

COLLEGE STUDENT? START HERE

BY JODI IRELAND

tarting college preparations — from figuring

out applications and financial aid to navigating

freshman orientation — is exciting, but it can

quickly become daunting for any student and

their family. And first-generation college

students often face extra challenges.

You’re considered a first-generation college student if

neither of your parents completed a four-year degree.

Congrats on breaking new ground for your family! Here

are some of the challenges you may encounter.

• Less guidance, since you may not have family members

to give you advice or share their experiences.

• Financial hurdles, since many first-generation students

come from families with limited financial resources,

creating barriers to affording college, covering living

expenses, and managing student loans.

• Balancing responsibilities, since a good percentage

of first-generation students juggle school with family

responsibilities like caring for younger siblings.

The good news? You’re not alone! Many students are the

first in their families to attend college. Here are some

recommendations and suggestions to help you navigate

this transition.

WHAT DOES “FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE

STUDENT” REALLY MEAN?

Think of college as a family tradition. If your parents

earned a four-year degree, like a bachelor’s, you’re part

of a “continuing generation” in college. Your family has

experienced higher education in the past.

But if neither parent has finished a four-year degree?

That makes you a first-generation college student

— you’re the first person in your family to make this

journey. Now, this definition is a bit more complicated,

depending on the following scenarios.

If your parents earned a degree outside the U.S., you

might still be considered first-generation. Even if your

grandparents, aunts, or cousins attended college, your

status doesn’t automatically change. If your parents

attended community college and earned an associate

(two-year) degree but not a four-year degree, you’re still

considered first-generation.

Why do these factors matter? Because understanding

your status as a first-generation student can help you

find resources and support designed specifically for you.

Many colleges have programs and services to help firstgeneration

students succeed.

Remember — your journey is unique, and your family’s

educational background is just one part of the story.

RESOURCES FOR FIRST-GEN

COLLEGE STUDENTS

Starting college is a significant milestone, and firstgeneration

students may feel quite alone and overwhelmed.

Some experience “imposter syndrome,”

feeling like they don’t belong or deserve to attend

college. Remember: you’ve earned your place, and it’s

okay to seek support from your family, teachers, friends,

and college resources.

LOOK FOR PROGRAMS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR

FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS

It’s never too early to start prepping for college. Begin

by meeting with your high school’s academic advisor or

guidance counselor. They’ll help you stay on track for

graduation and answer your questions about the college

application process.

Many organizations offer valuable resources, too. For

example, America Needs You (ANY) has fellowship programs

supporting low-income, first-generation college

students. These programs help students thrive in college


and prepare for the job market. ANY also offers a free

program called FirstGenU that offers guidance on career

planning, interviewing skills, and workplace adjustment.

CHOOSE YOUR COLLEGE PATH

You have dozens of options, like a traditional university

where you live on campus and completely immerse yourself

in the college experience. Or perhaps you’d prefer an

online college, which offers more flexibility for students

balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.

Studies have shown that first-generation students enroll

in less selective colleges at higher rates than non-firstgen

students. But many more highly selective, top-tier

colleges have implemented significant resources to

help first-generation students thrive.

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY:

The university offers firstgeneration

scholarships to

help its 25%+ first-generation

students thrive.

DUKE UNIVERSITY:

10% of the university students

are first-generation and have

access to DukeLife, a program

offering holistic support for all

FGLI students.

HARVARD UNIVERSITY:

Over 15% of its students are firstgeneration

college students, and

the college has a first-generation

program to help students apply.

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY:

The university has a transition

and mentorship program

specific to first-generation

college students.

UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI:

The university’s “Gen-1” program

is the country’s first livinglearning

community specifically

designed for first-generation

college students.

YALE UNIVERSITY:

To support and empower

first-generation students, the

university created the FGLI

Community Initiative.

RICE UNIVERSITY:

The support for FGLI students includes a range of programs and services

from new family orientation and FLI Ambassadors to the Access

and Opportunity Portal, the Pantry, and FLI Network Supporters.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and goals.

To help you find the right fit, check out the “I’m First!”

website. This organization partners with colleges that

specifically support first-generation students. Its website

provides information on programs for low-income

learners, college statistics, and application details.

EXPLORE THE LEDA SCHOLARS PROGRAM

Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA) recruits

11th graders each year to form a cohort of 100 students who

have the potential to become leaders but lack the support

and exposure to attend highly selective colleges.

This program offers leadership development training,

academic support through writing workshops and test

preparation, and personalized guidance throughout the

college application and admissions process. LEDA continues

to support college graduates with ongoing mentorship,

career counseling, and postgraduate planning assistance.

Here’s more information on the three-part application

process, which you can start when the application opens

in September.

EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIPS

There are dozens of scholarships available for FGLI students.

Here are just a few to consider researching when you’re a

high school senior.

• Ron Brown Scholars Program awards $40,000

scholarships.

• KPMG Future Leaders Program awards $10,000

scholarships/year for four years.

• National Horatio Alger Scholarship awards scholarships

to students pursuing a bachelor’s and associate’s

degrees, certificate program, or post-graduate degree.

• Coca-Cola Scholarship awards annual scholarships

worth over $3.5 million.

• Jackie Kent Cooke Scholarship awards full-ride

scholarships (tuition, room and board).

• Gates Millennium Scholarship awards full-ride

scholarships (tuition, room and board).

As Michelle Obama, a first-generation college student, said,

NO MATTER WHERE YOU COME FROM, OR HOW MUCH MONEY YOUR FAMILY HAS, I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOU

CAN SUCCEED IN COLLEGE, AND GET YOUR DEGREE, AND THEN GO ON TO BUILD AN INCREDIBLE LIFE FOR YOURSELF.

THAT’S BEEN MY LIFE STORY AND MY HUSBAND’S AS WELL.


FAFSA AND THE CSS PROFILE

Everything You Need to Know

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

pplying for financial aid is a crucial part of

the college admissions process. Countless

U.S. students wouldn't be able to afford

a college education without scholarships,

grants, and loans. Eligibility for these

opportunities requires submitting two key financial aid

applications: the FAFSA and the CSS Profile.

WHAT IS THE FAFSA?

Families use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid

(FAFSA) to apply for government-sponsored aid. Nearly

all U.S. colleges require or recommend that students

complete the FAFSA.

Once you and your guardians create and link your

accounts, you can complete the FAFSA application, which

requires you to submit financial documents — tax forms,

income, assets, and other information. The U.S. Department

of Education reviews this information to determine

your eligibility for grants, work-study, and loans.

The FAFSA application asks you to list the colleges you are

applying to. Once your FAFSA application has been processed,

each college on your list receives a summary of the

information you and your parents shared. But don’t worry,

you don’t need to finalize your list before submitting your

FAFSA. In fact, you can add or remove colleges from your

FAFSA list, even after submitting it.

Over 200 schools require the CSS Profile. Before applying,

verify whether the schools on your list require it. Some

participating schools will also require you to submit your

financial documents via the Institutional Documentation

Service (IDOC). You will receive information from the

College Board about accessing IDOC after submitting

your CSS Profile.

DO I REALLY NEED TO SUBMIT BOTH

APPLICATIONS?

If a college requires both applications, yes — you’ll need to

submit both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile. Failure to do so

may prevent you from receiving any financial aid from that

school. This oversight won’t affect your admissions decision,

but you won’t receive any money if you’re accepted

and choose to attend.

FINANCIAL AID FAQS

In general, because CSS Profile requests more particulars

and information regarding you and your family’s finances,

it’s more in-depth than FAFSA. While the CSS Profile can

take longer to complete, a more comprehensive look into

your finances can help you qualify for more aid — and

perhaps guide your decision on which college to choose.

WHAT IS THE CSS PROFILE?

The College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile) is a

financial aid application offered by the College Board,

the same organization that administers the SAT. The CSS

Profile determines a student’s eligibility for institutional aid

— grants, scholarships, and loans offered by colleges and

scholarship organizations. The CSS Profile is free to submit

for families earning up to $100,000. If you don’t qualify for

a free application, the application fee costs $25.


What type of aid

am I eligible for?

When does

the application

typically open?

When is the

deadline to

submit?

Is the

application

free?

Where do I

access the

application?

Do my parents

need to create

their own

account?

What documents

do I need to

complete the

application?

Do I have to

finish my

application once

I’ve started it?

I made a mistake

— can I edit my

application after

submitting it?

FAFSA

The FAFSA qualifies you for

federal government aid:

• Grants

• Federal loans

• Work-study

The CSS Profile qualifies you for

non-federal institutional aid:

• Grants

• Scholarships

• School-backed loans

Both open on or about October 1, although this date can vary.

Financial aid deadlines vary by school and admissions plan:

• Early decision/early action deadlines typically fall between

October and December.

• Regular decision deadlines typically fall between February

and April.

Yes, the FAFSA is free to all

applicants.

You can log into the FAFSA

online at studentaid.gov.

To access your account, you

must verify your identity and

create an FSA ID.

Yes — Parents must create a

FAFSA account, separate from

their child’s. Your child will

then log in to their account

and invite you to join their

application.

• Most recent federal tax

returns

• Records of child support

• The current balance of

cash, savings, and checking

accounts

• Records of net worth of

investments, businesses,

and farms

• Bank statements and

records of investments (if

applicable)

• Records of untaxed income

(if applicable)

CSS PROFILE

The CSS Profile is free for

certain students. View fee waiver

eligibility requirements here.

You can log into the CSS Profile

online at cssprofile.collegeboard.org.

If you already have

a College Board account, you

can use the same username

and password.

No — Custodial parents do

not need to create a separate

account. However, non-custodial

parents may need to create

an account and complete their

own CSS Profile.

• Most recent federal tax

returns

• W-2 forms

• Records of current-year

income

• Records of untaxed income

and benefits

• Records of assets

• Bank statements

No, you can save your application and return to it later.

Yes, you can update your information and submit corrections

to your application after submitting.

TIPS FOR COMPLETING YOUR

FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS

Applying for financial aid can be tricky.

Here are a few tips to remember.

• Do your research. These applications

might feel intimidating if you and your

family are filling them out for the first

time. However, there are tons of great

online resources, including this CSS Profile

tutorial and this guide to Filling Out

the FAFSA. Review these resources ahead

of time to feel more prepared when

you’re ready to apply.

• Talk to your parents about the financial

aid process. Ideally, your parents

should help you compile the information

you need for the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

However, more complicated situations

need extra support. A knowledgeable

expert like those at CollegeAdvisor can

help guide you through the process.

• Work on your applications concurrently.

The FAFSA and CSS Profile ask

for some of the same information — so

why not make the most of your time and

tackle both at once? You can gather a list

of each form’s requirements — like past

years’ taxes — to have handy. This strategy

can help you stay organized, reduce

stress, and keep you on track to meet

your deadlines.

• Review your applications before

submitting. Verify the accuracy and

completeness of the information you

provided. Leaving blank answers or

misentering information could result

in delays or less aid than you qualify to

receive. Ensure you and your parents

provide all required signatures —

your applications won’t be processed

without them.

• Submit your applications early. To

maximize your financial aid package,

submit your applications early. Waiting

until the deadline can reduce the

amount of available aid because the pot

of money isn’t limitless. Submitting your

FAFSA and CSS Profile sooner improves

your chances of receiving the financial

assistance you hope for.


6 THINGS TO KNOW

ABOUT STUDENT LOANS

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

ountless students rely on loans to help

finance their college educations. According

to the Pew Research Center, 25% of U.S.

adults under 40 have student loan debt,

contributing to a nationwide student loan

debt of over $1.6 trillion.

While enabling educational opportunities, student loans

can impose a substantial financial burden. These loans

provide immediate financial relief for tuition and college

expenses but often lead to long-term challenges

in managing debt. Before you borrow, here’s what you

should know.

THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT TYPES

OF STUDENT LOANS.

Not all student loans are created equal; some have

more favorable terms than others. Understanding

different loan types can help you make informed decisions

that protect your future financial well-being.

FEDERAL VS. PRIVATE

Loans are federal or private. The U.S. government

offers federal loans with a fixed interest rate — the

rate doesn’t change during the life of your loan. Qualifying

for a federal loan requires submitting the FAFSA.

The government evaluates your family’s finances to

calculate your eligibility for federal loans.

Private lenders like banks and credit unions offer

private loans. Income and credit scores determine

their interest rates, which may be fixed or variable.

Private loans tend to have higher interest rates;

qualifying may require a parent co-signature.

SUBSIDIZED VS. UNSUBSIDIZED

Federal student loans are subsidized or unsubsidized.

The difference? When interest starts accruing.

Subsidized loans don’t charge interest while you’re still in

school. The government covers interest payments while

you’re a student and six months post-graduation. Unsubsidized

loans start accruing interest when you receive your

first loan payment. Interest accumulates while you’re in

college, increasing the total repayment amount.

Let’s say you borrow $8,000 with a 4.99% fixed interest

rate for an undergraduate degree.

LOAN

TYPE

PRINCIPAL

BALANCE

INTEREST

ACCRUED

DURING SCHOOL

Subsidized $8,000 $0 $8,000

Unsubsidized $8,000 $1,069 $9,069

PARENT PLUS LOANS

A PLUS loan is a federal loan specifically for parents

choosing to borrow. These federal loans have a fixed

interest rate but aren’t subsidized; borrowers repay all

accrued interest. To apply, parents must create their own

FSA ID and complete a credit check.

INTEREST RATES DETERMINE YOUR

TOTAL LOAN COST.

TOTAL BALANCE

AFTER 6-MONTH

GRACE PERIOD

When calculating how much to borrow, know your loan’s

interest rate, which directly impacts what you’ll pay over

the life of your loan, and these key terms.

• Principal: Initial dollar amount borrowed

• Interest: Additional dollar amount owed

• Interest Rate: Percentage of principal charged

as interest

• Interest Rate Factor: Interest rate divided by

the number of days in the year

• Outstanding Balance: Dollar amount left to repay


FIXED VS. VARIABLE INTEREST RATES

Your loan will have a fixed or variable interest rate. Fixed

interest rates never change. The current fixed interest

rates for 2024-2025 are 6.53% for undergraduate student

loans and 9.08% for parent PLUS loans. Variable interest

rates can change yearly and may be higher or lower than

the fixed federal rates.

SIMPLE VS. COMPOUND INTEREST

Simple interest is calculated based on the original

amount of your loan. Multiply Outstanding Principle

Balance x Interest Rate Factor x Number of Days

Since Last Payment.

For example, if you borrow $20,000 at 5% interest:

DAILY INTEREST:

$20,000 × (5% / 365) =

$2.72 per day

Compound interest is calculated based on the original

amount of your loan plus any accrued interest. Interest —

and the total outstanding balance — grow exponentially

over time.

For the same $20,000 loan at 5% interest:

DAY 1:

Interest = $20,000 × (5% / 365) = $2.72.

New balance = $20,000 + $2.72 = $20,002.72

DAY 2:

Interest = $20,002.72 × (5% / 365) = $2.72.

New balance = $20,002.72 + $2.72 = $20,005.44

MONTHLY INTEREST (30 DAYS):

Total interest = $83.50

MONTHLY INTEREST

(30 DAYS):

$2.72 × 30 = $81.60

While a few dollars may not seem like much, it adds

up over 20 years.

YOU HAVE MULTIPLE REPAYMENT

PLAN OPTIONS.

The terms of your loan include different repayment options.

Private loan choices can vary. Federal loans offer a

variety of repayment plans.

• Fixed Payment: Standard, Graduated, and Extended

Repayment Plans

• Income-Driven: Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE),

Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Income-Based, and Income-

Contingent Repayment Plan

Your repayment plan determines your monthly payments.

Like a car loan or mortgage, fixed payment plans have a set

number of months for repayment. However, depending on

your salary, these monthly payments may not be realistic.

Income-driven plans determine your monthly payments

based on income after taxes and essential costs.

If you’re struggling, you can apply for deferment or forbearance

— a temporary pause on your payments. Your loans

may still accrue interest. You may be eligible to consolidate

federal loans into one lower monthly payment with a Direct

Consolidation Loan. A caveat: consolidation can affect your

eligibility for certain loan forgiveness programs.

LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAMS CAN

HELP ELIMINATE YOUR DEBT.

Your federal student loans may be forgiven, canceled,

or discharged, eliminating your responsibility for paying

back any outstanding loan balance.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PLSF) applies to

individuals employed by the government or non-profits

who have made 120 monthly payments.

• Teacher Loan Forgiveness program helps qualified

teachers who have worked five straight years at a

low-income school.

• Income-driven repayment plans may forgive any

remaining balance if your loans aren’t paid off by the

end of the repayment period (20-25 years).

MISSING PAYMENTS HAS SERIOUS

CONSEQUENCES.

Missing loan payments can lead to delinquency and/or

default, negatively affecting your credit score. You lose

options for deferment, forbearance, and repayment, and

the lender may withhold wages and tax refunds. Understanding

repayment status helps keep you on track.

BORROWING WISELY IS KEY TO AVOIDING

EXCESSIVE DEBT.

Before borrowing, carefully review your loan’s terms,

including its interest rate and repayment options. Think

long-term, including how your career choices will impact

your ability to make payments. If you’re currently applying

to colleges, maximize other aid before borrowing. Scholarships

don’t require repayment. Submit your FAFSA and

CSS Profile to qualify for institutional grants, federal

loans, and other aid.


Don't Let Cost Hold You Back:

EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIP OPTIONS

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

cholarships are one of the best ways to finance

your college education. Unlike loans, this debtfree

option doesn’t require repayment. Scholarships

generally fall into two categories: need- and

merit-based.

Need-based scholarships are awarded based on your

family’s financial need, often calculated based on the

information you provide on financial aid forms such as

the FAFSA and the CSS Profile. Merit-based scholarships

are based on academic or other achievements and may or

may not be need-based.

Individual colleges and organizations like the Coca-

Cola Scholars Foundation and the National Merit

Scholarship Corporation award scholarships. Many

colleges automatically consider applicants for their

institutional scholarships. External scholarships, on

the other hand, usually require a separate application.

These scholarships have specific requirements. Some

are targeted toward specific demographics or students

from particular backgrounds. Some have great

flexibility, allowing you to use the funds at any school,

while others have strict limits.


External scholarships range from a few hundred to

several thousand dollars. These scholarships might be

good for one year, whereas others may invite you to

renew over the course of your studies. Applications might

include a quick and easy form, while others require a

scholarship application essay.

Feeling a little overwhelmed? No worries! Let’s review a

few common types of scholarships and examples of each.

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Academic scholarships are the most common type of

merit scholarship and are based primarily on academic

record, although some may have additional requirements.

• Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship: Offers

$20,000 scholarships each year to 120 outstanding

students with demonstrated achievements in leadership,

academics, and service.

• National Merit Scholarship Program: Offers $2,500

scholarships to finalists entering the competition by

taking the PSAT/NMSQT.

• Paul Tsongas Scholarship: Offers scholarships of

varying amounts to in-state students with a minimum

of 3.75 GPA and 1200 SAT score and planning to attend

Massachusetts state universities.

• Cameron Impact Scholarship: Offers a four-year, fulltuition

scholarship to students with a minimum 3.7 GPA

and demonstrated excellence in leadership and service.

ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS

While not all high school student-athletes will win D1

athletic scholarships, many can qualify for smaller athletic

scholarships.

• Zack Zolin Scholarship Foundation: Offers $500 -

$2,000 scholarships to collegiate student-athletes.

• Varsity Athletics Scholarship of the Pride Foundation:

Offers scholarships of varying amounts to LGBTQ+

students playing collegiate varsity-level sports in Alaska,

Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington.

• MHSAA Scholar-Athlete Scholarship: Offers $2,000

scholarships to student leaders who have earned a varsity

letter in a Michigan High School Athletic Associationsponsored

sport.

• BBB Ethical Athlete Scholarship: Offers $1,000 -

$2,500 scholarships to students who have participated

in AIA-sanctioned sports and displayed ethical and

positive behavior.

FIELD-SPECIFIC SCHOLARSHIPS

If you already know what you want to study in college,

look for scholarships specifically for your major. Many

organizations offer scholarships promoting the study

of a specific field.

• AIAA Lockheed Martin Marillyn Hewson Scholarship:

Offers one $10,000 scholarship to a female high school

student interested in aerospace and pursuing a degree

in engineering or another related field.

• Doris Gregory Memorial Scholarship: Offers $1,000

scholarships to residents of New Mexico planning to

pursue a degree in journalism or another related field

at an in-state college or university.

• CBC Spouses Performing and Visual Arts Scholarship:

Offers $5,000 scholarships to Black students

pursuing a visual arts degree.

• Dr. Aura-Lee A. and James Hobbs Pittenger

American History Scholarship: Offers one $2,000

scholarship that can be renewed annually over four

years to a student pursuing a degree in American

History/Government.

DIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS

Diversity scholarships target students of a specific ethnicity,

gender, background, or other identity. Some are general

and apply to students studying various topics, whereas

others are field-specific or even school-specific.

• Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Offers scholarships

between $500 - $5,000 to Hispanic students.

• USPAACC College Scholarship: Offers scholarships

between $3,000 - $5,000 to APIDA students (East, South,

Southeast Asian, or Pacific Island heritage).

• Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship: Offers a

scholarship of up to $35,000 to minority students attending

a JRF-approved four-year college or university.

• MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship: Offers scholarships

between $1,000 - $6,000 to female international/DACA

students pursuing a STEM degree.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Many scholarships recognize students actively working to

better their communities. Some community involvement

scholarships may have a specific focus, while others may

be location-specific.


• Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes: Offers

$10,000 scholarships to students involved in an

inspiring service project.

• Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards: Offers $36,000

scholarships to Jewish students leading a project or

initiative benefitting the Jewish or general community.

• BAFTX Community Service Award: Offers $5,000

scholarships to low-income students in Texas or the

UK who have led a community service project.

• Youthlinc Utah Young Humanitarian Award: Offers

scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $7,500 to high

school students in Utah who have performed outstanding

humanitarian service.

PROJECT OR ESSAY-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS

Some scholarships are awarded based on an original

work, like an essay, research project, or another type

of creation.

• U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize: Offers a $10,000

scholarship to a student who has completed an outstanding

water-related research project.

• Doodle for Google: Offers a $55,000 scholarship to a

student who crafts an original doodle, along with five

$5,000 scholarships offered to national finalists.

• Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest: Offers

$8,000 scholarships each quarter to students who

submit a written or video essay about an individual who

has inspired them.

• Davidson Fellows Scholarship: Offers scholarships

ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 to students who

have created an exceptionally meaningful or

significant work.

LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS

These scholarships are dedicated to providing financial

support to local students. Applications can be state- or

county-specific, and many require students to attend

college in-state.

• Henry O. Peabody Scholarship Program: Offers

renewable scholarships between $1,000 - $5,000 to

women in Norfolk County, Massachusetts.

• Roy F. and Joann Cole Mitte Foundation Scholarship

Program: Offers renewable scholarships of $10,000 to

four-year institutions and $5,000 to two-year institutions

to Region 13 Texas residents.

• Gary S. Wilmer/RAMI Music Scholarship: Offers

scholarships of varying amounts to residents of

Boone, Ogle, or Winnebago counties in Illinois

pursuing a music degree.

• PG&E Better Together STEM Scholarships: Offers

scholarships between $2,500 - $10,000 to California

residents (and customers) pursuing a STEM degree

in-state.

NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

National scholarships are available to students all over

the country. Eligibility varies by scholarship, though most

are offered to students with strong academic records.

• QuestBridge National College Match: Offers full

four-year scholarships to high-achieving, low-income

students who are matched with a participating college

or university.

• Burger King Scholars Program: Offers scholarships

between $1,000 - $60,000 to low-income students

based on their financial need and achievements in

academics, service, and extracurriculars.

• Equitable Excellence Scholarship: Offers $5,000

scholarships that can be renewed annually over four

years to students who have been a force for good in

their community.

• Hilton Cares Scholarship Program: Offers scholarships

of up to $5,000 to students interested in

hospitality and other fields.

WHERE TO LOOK FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

This list is just a small sample of the thousands of

available scholarships representing more than $1 billion

in financial aid annually. The best part? Finding scholarships

isn’t as difficult as you might think. Here are

a few online resources to help kickstart your

scholarship search.

• College Board’s Scholarship Search database includes

thousands of scholarship opportunities.

• Going Merry can help you find everything from

state-specific scholarships to national scholarships.

• Scholarship America administers scholarships

from hundreds of organizations nationwide.

• For more targeted opportunities, check out

CollegeAdvisor’s list of 42 scholarships for high

school juniors and TeenLife’s list of scholarships

for Hispanic students and the performing &

visual arts.


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Y O U R F U T U R E I N A R T S

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