It’s the start of a new year and a new decade (possibly – there’s a debate about that).  However, there’s no denying that January 1, 2020 is an opportunity to take on new challenges.  Start the New Year with these resolutions:    Use your phone for something more than social media.  Get organized in 2020 by trying a

The college application process has become increasingly strategic for both students and colleges.  With students applying to more colleges and colleges receiving more applications than ever, there’s increased pressure on both sides.  Students want to know “Will the college accept me?”  Colleges want to know “Will the student enroll here?”  That’s where the early deadline comes

First semester of senior year is over or winding down.  The holiday break and the new year are here.  Are you finished with your college applications?  There are multiple steps before you can submit a COMPLETE application to the college of your choice.  Use the following checklist to see where you are in the process. College

It’s that time of the year when you make lists and recheck them.  And no – we’re not talking about a Santa list.  Now is a good time to begin thinking about your college list.  Spend some of your time during this winter break to get a jump start on your college list.  The steps

Seniors, the end of the application process is in sight. Early application deadlines are approaching and some have even passed. Much of the application work is already done – SAT taken, essays written, and recommendations requested. Hopefully, you can spend your winter break relaxing with family and friends. A rest from the college application process is

How do you get money for college? Are you reading about college financial aid online or chatting about it with your friends?  Are your parents wondering how much your college education is going to cost them? Beginning and Ending Premise of College Funding Colleges and the government say the primary responsibility for paying for college

School can be busy, even overwhelming at times. You are probably grateful for the Thanksgiving holiday, and for the time to relax with family and friends. Hopefully, your teachers spared you from any holiday homework! During the break, why not take a minute or two of your time to write a gratitude list? Start small

If you took the PSAT earlier this fall, you should expect to receive your scores sometime next week. The CollegeBoard says scores will be released to students between Dec 9-11 (the exact date depends on where you live). Your counselor can access the scores on Dec 2 through the K-12 reporting portal. Use your PSAT score report

It’s December! Holidays, family, days off from school – and college decisions?! That’s right, if you applied to any of the schools in the first round of early action or early decision, you’ll probably be receiving decisions soon (if you haven’t already). This month be sure to: Watch out for admission emails or letters from colleges. Decide

Up to this point, the college application process has been all about you. However, if you are considered a dependent student, then completing the FAFSA application will be a team effort. Before you dive in to fill out the form, be sure that everyone involved has gathered the required information (social security numbers, tax information, FSA

A Novel Idea It’s high season for college applications. Students are polishing off college essays, waiting on final test scores, and pushing for that last GPA point. Meanwhile, parents are biting their nails and wrestling with financial aid forms. So, let’s talk about postponing college. What? Isn’t that insane?! Not at all. This is the perfect moment

SAT Subject Tests are based on the curriculum you have in class. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of a particular subject. According to the College Board, “The SAT Subject Tests offer you an additional opportunity to show colleges what you know and what you know you can do. Many colleges use the SAT

How much will I pay for College? Paying for college is often compared to paying for airline tickets. No two people pay the same price. So how much will you pay? That depends on many factors. Knowing what those factors are, and how each college will look at your family’s financial situation, will help you determine the expected cost for college.

When you think about “Perfect College,” what comes to your mind? Bucolic hills, palm trees or urban energy? Classes with 12 students or with 120? Going to a football game, a political debate, an art show or all of the above? You need to know what is important for YOU to decide which colleges suit you