Understand rolling admissions and how this flexible college application process allows students to submit applications and receive admissions decisions within weeks on a first-come, first-served basis until classes fill up. Learn the benefits of early submission for rolling admissions, plus strategic tips for balancing rolling admissions with Early Decision and Regular Decision applications.
Read MoreCollege Solutions Director of Tutoring Dickson Benesh breaks down why the SAT Math section feels so difficult for students, explaining challenges like complex problem phrasing, conceptual depth beyond plug-and-chug formulas, mixed skill requirements across algebra, geometry, and data analysis, and intense time pressure on the adaptive Module 2. Learn proven test-taking strategies, problem-solving techniques, and targeted SAT Math prep approaches that help students recognize common question types, work efficiently under pressure, and boost confidence to achieve their target scores.
Read MoreCollege Solutions VP Patrick Zylka debunks common college admissions myths and misinformation in this comprehensive presentation hosted by the University of Michigan Alumni Club, addressing critical questions about SAT/ACT testing requirements, AP course availability, extracurricular activities, and what really matters in college applications. Watch the full recording to learn expert strategies for positioning students effectively in the competitive college admissions process and discover which widely-circulated college application advice is accurate versus what could actually hurt your chances.
Read MoreDiscover how parents can effectively support teens in choosing the right college fit by balancing guidance with independence, emphasizing campus culture and academic programs over rankings, having honest financial conversations, and encouraging authenticity throughout the college application process. This essential guide helps parents navigate their role in the college search process through open communication, campus visits, practical support with deadlines and logistics, and ultimately respecting their teen's final college decision while being a supportive cheerleader rather than decision-maker.
Read MoreCollege Solutions Senior Counselors Terry Hurley-Maciulewicz and Patrick Zylka demonstrate the importance of keeping an open mind during the college search process by visiting rival Ohio State University in their Michigan Wolverine gear, proving that finding the right college fit transcends personal biases, rankings, and reputation. Learn why prospective students should approach college visits and the college list building process with exploration and flexibility, considering essential factors like campus culture, location, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and financial aid rather than predetermined assumptions.
Read MoreExplore everything you need to know about majoring in engineering, including competitive admissions requirements, essential STEM coursework like AP Physics and AP Calculus, diverse career opportunities in aerospace, biomedical, civil, mechanical, and computer engineering fields, and top engineering schools like MIT, Georgia Tech, UC Berkeley, and Purdue. Learn how College Solutions helps students strengthen engineering college applications by showcasing problem-solving skills, STEM preparation, and finding the best-fit engineering programs.
Read MoreCollege Solutions VP of Counseling and Senior Counselor Terry Hurley-Maciulewicz has visited a lot of campuses in her career (more than 200, to be exact! ). So she knows a special campus when she sees one. Today, she’s sharing her takeaways from a recent visit to the University of Richmond (UR).
Read MoreAvoid common college search mistakes parents make, including focusing too much on prestige and rankings, overlooking campus fit, taking over the application process, ignoring financial realities, and putting excessive pressure on students during this stressful transition. Learn how to support your teen effectively by encouraging campus visits, balancing reach and safety schools, starting early, celebrating milestones, and fostering independence while helping them find the right college fit for their unique goals and personality.
Read MoreUnderstand the evolving role of SAT and ACT scores in college admissions with this guide covering test-optional policies, test-blind schools, scholarship requirements, and how to strategically decide whether to submit standardized test scores based on your academic profile. Learn when SAT/ACT scores still matter for competitive colleges and merit-based scholarships, plus essential test preparation strategies and how to strengthen other application components like essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation.
Read MoreDirector of Tutoring Dickson Benesh explains how personalized one-on-one math tutoring builds essential skills, boosts student confidence, fills learning gaps, and provides targeted SAT and ACT test preparation beyond just improving grades. Discover how individualized math instruction creates a supportive learning environment that develops critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, growth mindset, and lifelong skills that help students thrive academically and professionally.
Read MoreMaster college fairs with expert strategies for researching schools in advance, preparing thoughtful questions for admissions representatives, organizing your route through crowded venues, and making strong first impressions that demonstrate genuine interest. This comprehensive guide helps high school students maximize their college search experience by bringing essential materials, taking effective notes, staying open-minded to new schools, and following up with admissions officers after the event.
Read MoreLearn how to build a college list tailored for students with learning differences by researching disability services, learning resource centers, ADA accommodations, and understanding the three models of support. This essential guide covers evaluating campus size, assistive technologies, accessibility features, self-advocacy skills, and finding colleges that provide the right level of personalized support to help students with learning differences thrive academically and socially.
Read MoreAfter a recent visit to campus, College Solutions Counselor Taylor Conti brings back insights and impressions from Boston College. From academics to traditions, she highlights what makes BC stand out and why it might be a great fit for your college list.
Read MoreUnderstand the key differences between Early Decision (ED) and Regular Decision (RD) college applications, including ED's binding commitment and higher acceptance rates versus RD's flexibility to compare financial aid packages and multiple college offers. This comprehensive guide helps students and families weigh the pros and cons of each application timeline, considering factors like college readiness, financial aid needs, application deadlines, and alternative options like Early Action to make the best admissions strategy decision.
Read MoreFormer UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk advises high school students and college-bound students thinking about law school to focus on genuine intellectual growth, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and building strong character rather than trying to game the pre-law path. Learn why your undergraduate college choice, major selection, leadership experiences, summer activities, and personal integrity matter more to law school admissions than following a rigid "pre-law" checklist or attending a name-brand institution.
Read MoreMaster the Common Application platform with this step-by-step guide covering how to navigate Common App sections, including profile setup, activities lists, personal statement essays, supplemental essays, teacher recommendations, and college-specific requirements. Learn essential strategies for streamlining your college admissions process, organizing application materials, meeting deadlines, and tailoring responses to maximize your chances of admission to multiple colleges through one efficient platform.
Read MoreOur CEO, Margaret Bolton Baudinet, paid a visit to Sewanee, The University of the South, and discovered a campus that feels both timeless and deeply inspiring. From its expansive natural beauty to its standout creative writing program, Sewanee offers a one-of-a-kind college experience for students who think independently and dream big.
Read MoreLearn how to create a standout college application resume that showcases extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, academic achievements, and work experience through clear organization and measurable accomplishments. This comprehensive guide covers essential resume-building strategies including proper formatting, using action verbs, tailoring content to specific colleges and programs, and highlighting impact to impress admissions officers and strengthen your college application.
Read MoreWe’re kicking off our new Tutor Talk series with a post from our Director of Tutoring, Dickson Benesh, a veteran math teacher with nearly three decades of classroom experience. In this feature, Dickson shares his student-centered approach to tutoring and how he helps students build confidence, master challenging material, and achieve their best on the SAT and ACT.
Read MoreSupplemental essays give us the chance to stand out by showing our authentic voices, values, and connections to each college’s community. In this post, we share our best tips for researching prompts, crafting focused responses, and writing standout essays that elevate your college applications.
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