college applications

Is Optional Really Optional? Beware of Leaving Out “Optional” Elements in College Apps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Growing up with the internet, you’re used to those forms that have stars next to the mandatory questions, with optional being just that—optional. However, when it comes to “optional” on college apps, it really may not be in your best interest to skip it. Here are a few examples of things that some colleges say …

myths

Myth: There is ONE Perfect School for Me

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

While you’re looking at schools, you may have it in your mind that there is one perfect school for you, a “soulmate”. However, most students find that’s simply not the case. There Are Good Fits, Not Perfect Schools We all want there to be that “perfect” school, but that just isn’t the case. There’s no …

questions & answers

What Do You Do If You See an Error on Your FAFSA?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

We all make mistakes. Thankfully, some of them are correctable! That’s true for a number of errors you may make on your FAFSA. If you notice any mistakes on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid after you’ve submitted it, here are some steps to take. Make a Correction Making corrections for your FAFSA is …

financial aid

FAFSA Deadlines You Need to Be Aware of

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 15, 2024

Key Takeaway: When you file FAFSA, the Federal FAFSA deadline (June 30 of the award year) isn’t the only important date to consider. You also need to factor in the College’s FAFSA deadline and the State FAFSA deadlines. These dates vary by institution, state, and program, so check with your school’s and state’s websites to …

college admissions

Myth: Ivy Leagues are the Most Selective Schools

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s a common thought that Ivy League schools are the most selective schools of all the colleges and universities in the United States. You’ll find that’s not exactly the case. Ivy League Acceptance Rates Harvard is the most selective school out of the Ivy Leagues, selecting only 5% of applicants, with Yale right behind, only accepting …

college applications

If You Want to Apply EA / ED, When Should You Start Crafting Your App?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you know or are pretty sure what college or university you want to attend, you’re probably considering using Early Action or Early Decision to apply. However, applying for Early Decision or Early Action means you do have to start working on your application at a different time than Regular Decision. Early Action is Different …

college admissions

What NOT to Ask During a College Visit

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

During your college visits, you may have a list of questions you want to ask, either as a student or a parent. These may include questions about campus life, classes, majors, or town. There are a few questions though that you will want to steer clear of. Here are some questions to NOT ask during a …

ACT & SAT

Why the PSAT / PreACT Shouldn’t be Overlooked

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Even if you’re not thinking too seriously about college during your junior year of high school, it’s definitely starting to be on your mind. However, that doesn’t mean you should be overlooking the PSAT or the PreACT. Here’s why you should be taking either one or both: You Could Qualify for Scholarships Did you know …

ACT & SAT

How to Help Your Student Prep for the ACT / SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Your student may have their ACT and SAT coming up and are busy studying every evening for this big exam! Even though they’re at their desk reading away or taking practice tests, there are plenty of things you can do as a parent to help them. Here are a few things you can do to …