Writing a college essay is not like writing an English class essay. Rather, the college essay is a personal statement that captures who you are as a student and why you should be admitted into college. In about 650 words, the college essay should be well written and compelling, engaging, and deeply personal.
The cost of a college education in the United States is rising. According to the College Board, it can cost your family $23,890 to send your student to an in-state public school, and $32,410 for a private school. To help American families with college costs, federal and state governments and colleges give more than $200 billion annually in financial aid. Your student can apply for financial aid to receive support to help meet the costs of obtaining a college education.
Seniors – by now you have received your admission letter and are ready to enroll in college. Great! Read this list of steps to take between now and the first day of classes to ensure a smooth college transition. Consult with the enrollment letter provided by your school, and keep in close contact with your college for important updates about your enrollment status.
As you navigate the enrollment process, I hope you find this A to Z guide to college transition helpful, along with other tips that will lead to matriculation success.
You may remember months ago you completed the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form, sponsored by the U.S. State Department of Education provided your family with an index called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This amount told colleges how much you could afford to pay for the cost of attendance, including tuition, room, board, and fees. With this information, colleges formulated a financial aid package comprised of scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans. If the college does not provide your family with a competitive package, read this article to learn tips on negotiating a better financial aid package. Also, download a free sample template letter.
Conclusion + Action Steps How can I stand out in the college admissions process is the question students and parents…
As an increasing number of selective and highly selective colleges go test-optional, it shows that institutions are recognizing that it takes more than a score to show a student’s promise. But before deciding whether or not to submit your scores, consider the pros and cons of applying test-optional.
This month, I have rounded up college admissions articles worth reading.
Read about four action steps you can take right now to continue demonstrating interest in your colleges after the application has been submitted.
College fairs are often overwhelming and intimidating. Hundreds of eager parents and students pack into a convention center. They rotate around the room to learn about what colleges all over the country have to offer. Attending a college fair is an opportunity to get to know schools, meet the admissions officers who represent them, and begin the journey of building a relationship that demonstrates your interest and fit for the college.
In recent years, the number of students submitting college applications in Early Decision and Early Action admissions cycles has increased. Many students believe that applying early leads to a better chance of acceptance.
Summer is a great time to work on activities that will impress colleges. Don’t let your teen sit around and do nothing. Read about 7 things they can do, even while social distancing, to stay busy.
Last week, a mom emailed me asking if it was okay that her son does not know what he wants to study in college. She shared her experience visiting a college campus where a campus tour guide asked each student in the group to say their name and what they planned to major in. The mom wrote, “Kids spoke of studying biostatistics, history, forensics, and other subjects I have never heard of. When it was Sammy’s turn, he shrugged and said Dothraki (not sure if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, but this is not a real language…). The whole group laughed. I was so embarrassed. What should I do?”
This month, I have rounded up college admissions articles that are worth checking out. Does where you go to college matter? 2018 Early Admissions Trends and Concerns…