When it comes to paying for college, many families feel the financial strain. It’s no wonder that most students need financial aid to make their college dreams a reality. The good news? Some of the nation’s top colleges are committed to making education affordable for all students.
You’ve probably come across two of the most common tests: the ACT (American College Testing) and the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test). You may be wondering which test to take—or if you need to take one at all! Let’s break down what each test entails, how they differ, and how you can decide which one is the right fit for you.
As you prepare for the college journey, whether you’re an incoming student or already knee-deep in college life, one thing’s for sure—finding a school that offers the best value for your money is key. Maine, with its breathtaking landscapes and solid academic tradition, is home to several budget-friendly colleges that don’t sacrifice quality for affordability.
Trade or vocational schools and traditional colleges offer distinct educational paths tailored to different career aspirations. The primary difference lies in their focus: trade schools provide specialized training for specific careers, while colleges offer a broader education designed to develop well-rounded individuals.
When it comes to choosing a college, the idea that State universities are always the cheaper option is a common belief. After all, the sticker price at a State university often seems far more affordable than that of a private college. However, this notion is more complicated than it first appears. Let’s explore why the cost difference isn’t as clear-cut as you might think and how financial aid plays a crucial role in determining your final college bill.
As you choose a college, there are several key factors to consider—financial aid, location, campus size, academic programs, and more. By keeping the lines of communication open and weighing these aspects thoughtfully, you can help your student make a well-informed choice without adding unnecessary stress. Let’s explore how parents and guardians can support their children in finding the right college while ensuring both perspectives are heard and valued.
When it comes to applying to college, there are many paths you can take, but one that often sparks curiosity—and maybe even a little anxiety—is Early Decision (ED). If you’ve heard this term thrown around and are wondering what exactly it means, you’re in the right place. Early Decision is a unique admissions option that can increase your chances of being accepted to your dream school, but it also comes with some significant strings attached. So, let’s dive into what Early Decision really is, how it works, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
We know applying to college can feel like a huge mountain to climb, but with the right plan in place, you’ll be ready to tackle it with confidence. Your college application journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you break it down into manageable steps. Let’s dive into some strategies that will help guide you along the way!
Navigating the college application and funding process can feel like a full-time job, but the good news is you don’t have to go it alone. There are fantastic resources out there designed to help students and parents every step of the way. College professionals, including experienced consultants and financial aid specialists, are available to provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re starting to think about college applications or trying to figure out how to pay for it all, these services can simplify the process, helping you avoid common mistakes and ensuring you make the most of every opportunity.
Hey there, future college students! Heard some rumblings about the PSAT (also called the PSAT/NMSQT, or Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)? It might sound fancy, but it’s basically a practice test for the SAT, the big college entrance exam, with some awesome perks thrown in. Let’s break it down.
Many college applications require standardized test scores, but most offer students a choice: ACT or SAT. Some students choose to take both tests, but that’s not an option for everyone. After all, testing can be time-consuming and expensive — especially once you factor in tutoring services and practice materials. So, how do you decide to take the ACT vs. SAT? While the two tests serve the same function, they’re vastly different. Some students who earn top marks on the SAT flunk the ACT and vice versa. When college acceptance can depend on your scores, it’s important to choose wisely. Here’s how to tell which test is right for you.
Should rankings be a part of your selection process? College ranking lists are a popular tool for choosing a college or university, but many prospective students think college rank is objective and official. In reality, these lists can be highly subjective. Here’s a look behind the scenes — plus, how to use a rankings list the right way.
Applying early for college could make it easier to get into your top-choice school. But how do you know which deadline to target to improve your chances? It starts with understanding the different types of college application deadlines and decision plans. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice.
An outstanding college essay can be the x-factor that gets you accepted to the school of your choice. The Common Application, with its variety of essay prompts, can help you showcase your personality, achievements, and aspirations. Here are our best strategies to select and answer the Common App essay questions for the 2024-2025 admissions year.
If you’re a college counselor, coach, teacher, or mentor looking to support your college-bound students, chances are you’ve been asked to write a strong letter of recommendation. With so much competition these days, it can take a lot to help your student stand out. Here’s how to write a college letter of recommendation that will blow the admission committee’s socks off.
If you’re one of the many smart, hard-working students who don’t test well, you might hear the words “test-optional” and imagine the sound of angels singing. But what is test-optional, really? Should you still submit SAT or ACT scores even if a school doesn’t require them? Will admissions officers evaluate you differently if you don’t have standardized test scores? Here’s what you need to know.
Dual enrollment is a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses and earn credits toward both their high school diploma and a postsecondary degree at the same time. It doesn’t matter if you go to private school or public school – dual enrollment is available to almost all U.S. high school students. If you want to graduate college as soon as possible, save money on tuition, and better prepare yourself for university curriculum, dual enrollment could be for you.
As you navigate the college application process, you may have heard the term “test-optional” in relation to SAT or ACT scores. Test-optional admissions policies allow students to choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. Going Merry has compiled answers to common questions that students and parents have on how test-optional policies work, and how they impact you.
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