How to Handle College Rejections with Grace

Receiving a college rejection letter can be disheartening, especially if it comes from a dream school. However, it’s important to remember that rejections are not a reflection of your worth or potential. Handling this experience with grace and resilience can set the tone for future success. Here’s how to navigate college rejections constructively.

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Margaret BaudinetComment
What to Do If You’re Waitlisted

Being waitlisted by a college can feel like a mix of hope and uncertainty. While it’s not an outright rejection, it’s also not the definitive “yes” students hope for. The good news? There are proactive steps students can take to boost their chances of moving off the waitlist and into the incoming class.

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Margaret BaudinetComment
How to Prepare for the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the cornerstone of securing financial aid for college. Completing the FAFSA early and accurately can open the door to scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans. Here’s a comprehensive guide to getting FAFSA-ready.

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Create Your Own College Rankings

Choosing the right college for you significantly impacts your future career path, social network, and personal growth. With thousands of universities to consider, the process can feel overwhelming. Traditional college rankings offer a one-size-fits-all approach, often prioritizing factors that may not align with every student’s priorities. Enter The New York Times’ groundbreaking tool, which empowers prospective students and their families to build personalized college rankings based on criteria that matter most to them.

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Sarah DohlComment
The Evolution of College Admission Decisions: Insights from the National Association for College Counseling's Latest Report

Understanding what factors significantly influence college admission decisions is crucial as students navigate the complex journey toward higher education. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has recently shed light on these critical components in its latest report, focusing on the Fall 2023 admission cycle.

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Sarah DohlComment
Understanding College Testing Policies in 2024

As the global COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the college admissions landscape underwent significant transformations, especially regarding SAT and ACT testing requirements. With many students unable to sit for standardized tests in 2020, many U.S. colleges and universities pivoted from their traditional SAT or ACT requirements to adopt test-optional policies. Here’s what you need to know in 2024.

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Sarah DohlComment
Virginia Moves to End Legacy Admissions: What Parents and Students Need to Know

In a landmark policy change, on Tuesday, the Virginia House of Delegates unanimously passed legislation to eliminate legacy admissions at its public universities, a move set to reshape the college application landscape. Understanding the implications and strategizing accordingly is crucial for parents navigating this new terrain. Here’s a comprehensive overview and guide on how to adapt to these changes.

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Sarah DohlComment
How Rich (or Not) Do You Have to Be to Get Into the Ivy League? A Response.

The college admissions process is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, especially for Ivy League schools. A recent article in New York Magazine raised a provocative question about the role of family income in determining a student's chances of getting into these prestigious institutions. The article's headline itself, "How Rich (or Not) Do You Have to Be to Get into the Ivy League?" instantly captures attention, but does it capture the whole truth? Let's dive deeper.

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Sarah DohlComment
Considering Finances: Appealing the Award

Finding the perfect college is an exciting milestone, but it's important not to lose hope when the financial burden becomes overwhelming. If your dream college's price seems daunting, you can appeal the financial aid award outlined in your award letter. Although colleges may not openly encourage appeals, financial aid officers can make adjustments if warranted. Here are some steps to follow when considering an appeal.

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Sarah DohlComment