Category: College Planning
Which AP and IB Courses Count for College Credit and How?
Taking AP or IB courses doesn’t just look good from a college admissions perspective—these classes can also translate into college credit once a student enrolls. While policies vary by college, many universities will grant college credits that go towards specific course requirements, in turn allowing students to free up some room in their schedules. Even if AP and IB courses are only applied towards a student’s overall credit count, completing advanced classes is a great way to get a jump start on college.
When Should You Write a Letter of Continued Interest?
A letter of continued interest (often referred to as a LOCI) is a written statement that a student sends to the admissions office of a school they are still interested in attending, despite being deferred or waitlisted. Generally, these letters reiterate the student’s interest in and fit for the college in question and update the admissions office on any achievements that the student has earned since submitting their initial application.
Class of 2027 Early Admission Rates
The first members of the college Class of 2027 are in! Here’s our breakdown of the early admission numbers for the Class of 2027. More decisions and statistics will be released in the coming weeks, so we will be updating this post as more information becomes available!
Waitlist Admission Rates
For waitlisted students, it can be hard to judge just how much of a chance they have of getting accepted off the waitlist. Data around waitlist acceptances can be scarce, especially as waitlists at top colleges grow and more and more schools become less transparent about their admissions statistics. The college counselors at IvyWise, however, have dug into the data and have some insight into waitlist admission rates.
Class of 2027 Early Decision Notification Dates
The college admissions season is flying by, and before you know it early admission decisions will be released. Here’s our annual list of early decision notification dates!
Application Strategy: Learn How Early Decision Works
Once you’ve put the finishing touches on your list of best-fit colleges, it’s time to consider application strategy. More specifically, rising seniors need to decide when they will apply to the schools on their list.
Early Decision can be a great application option for a student who is passionate about a certain school and able to meet the deadline. Keep reading to learn more about this application strategy and to determine whether applying early is the right move for you.
Why Your Interests Matter in the College Admissions Process
When preparing students for the college admissions process, we place a lot of emphasis on identifying and developing students’ interests in addition to good grades and test scores. As we’ve said before, students’ interests are important because it helps colleges make admissions decisions and build well-rounded classes. However, developing students’ interests isn’t just about getting into college – they’re a key factor in helping students succeed during their four years and after graduation.
When admissions officers evaluate college applications, they don’t just assess an applicant’s grades and standardized test scores. They also factor in extracurricular activities and your interests to get a comprehensive view of who you are, both inside and outside of the classroom.
Extracurriculars Highlight the Impact You Will Make on CampusWhile grades and test scores are important decision factors, admissions officers read applications in context and strive to paint a whole picture for each student they review. Colleges want to know exactly how you’ll fit in on campus, what kind of roommate will you be, and what activities you’re likely to get involved in once you’re on
US vs. UK Admissions: What You Need to Know
While more and more international students are studying in the US every year, a number of students are also looking to the UK for university options. The US and UK university systems are dramatically different, however, and many international students struggle with determining which would be the best fit for their learning styles, goals, and interests. With these two admissions systems and processes differing so significantly, it’s important to understand the nuances of US vs. UK admissions and how to apply to each.
The Pros and Cons of Applying Early This Fall
By Carolyn, IvyWise College Admissions Counselor
The weather here in my home state of Tennessee is finally starting to cool, there is pumpkin spice creamer in my coffee, and I just squashed what will (hopefully) be one of the last mosquitoes of the year. And with the change in the seasons, of course, comes the first wave of college application deadlines. Over the past several years, applying early to colleges has become a popular trend, and many colleges have developed a multi-deadline admissions process that might include Early Action, Early Decision, Single-Choice Early Action, and/or Regular Decision options. Whether or not to apply early can be a stressful decision even in “normal” years, but even more so in recent application cycles that have been headlined with record-high applicant rates and record-low admit rates.
With early application deadlines fast approaching, it’s important to consider whether applying early is the right choice for you. Of course, the decision of when to apply to the colleges on your list is entirely up to you, your family, and your counselor, but I have put together a list of pros and cons of applying early that will
Understanding EA vs. ED vs. EDII and More
Did you know that you can apply to a college early and get a decision way before most other students? Many colleges offer “early” application options, with students usually submitting their applications in October or November and receiving a decision by December. With the rise in the number of students applying to multiple colleges, and the difficulty of predicting yield, many colleges are offering a number of early application options. So how do you know if applying early is right for you?
3-2 Engineering Programs
Students interested in becoming engineers have traditionally enrolled in four-year degree programs at large universities with comprehensive engineering programs. These programs allow students to specialize in a particular type of engineering, such as mechanical, chemical, or civil. However, different paths for studying engineering have begun to diverge from the more traditional trajectory.
Sample Harvard Interview Questions and Answers
If you’re nervous about your Harvard interview, you’re not alone. Since Harvard is one of the most competitive schools in the country, it’s important to do your best on every component of the application to stand out.
Interviews can feel particularly stressful for students because they’re an unfamiliar challenge. However, it is possible to build up your confidence by preparing in advance. Keep reading to learn more about the Harvard interview questions that you can expect to encounter, as well as tips for answering them.
Class of 2026 Early Application Deadlines
Class of 2026 Early Application DeadlinesWe’re closing in on the first college application deadlines for the Class of 2026. Here are some of the early application deadlines students need to be aware of.
Just Admit it: What are Medical School Admissions Committees Looking For?
Learn What Medical School Admissions Committees Are Looking ForThe medical school admissions process has a reputation for being notoriously rigorous. Between preparing for and taking the MCAT and acing secondary applications, there are many steps on an aspiring applicant’s journey to medical school admission.
European vs US MBA Programs
Should You Choose a US or European MBA Program?By Nellie, IvyWise MBA Admissions Counselor
When it comes to applying to business school, there are several important decisions all applicants need to make. For many students, one important thing to consider when researching MBA programs is whether to pursue their MBA in the US or to consider programs in Europe.
Harvard Waitlist: How Hard Is It to Get Off of It?
Harvard is one of the most popular first-choice colleges for students, and it’s also one of the most competitive. In fact, in the latest admissions cycle, just 3.19% of applicants were offered a seat in the first-year class of 2026.
Given this competitive admissions rate, some very talented students are going to find themselves on Harvard’s waitlist. While most applicants have a general idea of what a waitlisted outcome means, few understand how waitlists really work and what they can do to boost their odds of admission, which is what we’re going to explore here:
Early Decision II 101: What Students Need to Know
What Applicants Should Keep in Mind About ED IIAn increasing number of colleges are adding Early Decision II to their application options, often with a deadline in early- to mid-January.
Colleges Extending Early Application Deadlines
Discover Whether Your Early Decision Choice is Extending Their Deadline
For students submitting a college application in 2020, the admissions cycle has been anything but ordinary. From campus tour closures to SAT/ACT cancellations, the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to impact the admissions process.
Will Colleges Extend Early Decision Deadlines?
Learn If Schools Are Considering Extending Their Early Decision Deadlines
Due to the recent changes and cancellations brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, some colleges are considering extending their Early Decision deadlines. While students must typically submit applications by early fall, some institutions are weighing more flexible timelines to give applicants more time to complete testing and additional requirements.
What to Know About Waitlist Admissions for the Class of 2024
Learn the Ins and Outs of Waitlist Admissions for 2020-2021
There are always a host of questions surrounding waitlist admissions but this year there is an added level of uncertainty. With many colleges still weighing their options for fall semesters in the wake of COVID-19, a significant proportion of admitted applicants are now reluctant to commit to their first-choice institutions.
5 Colleges With Unique Majors
If you think your choices for college majors are limited to studies such as English and Mathematics, it’s time to think again. Universities across the world are offering students a host of innovative and inventive fields of study devised to align with the interests and goals of their entire student body.
What Happens if You are Not Accepted Early Decision
How to Cope and What Happens Next
Unfortunately, everyone has to deal with rejection from time to time. It can initially feel devastating for students who do not gain admission to the university they applied to via Early Decision, but with time, it is possible to cope and make the best of it.
What You Need to Know Before You Apply to Duke
Learn More About this Top College Before Applying
Duke University is a renowned university in North Carolina with a rich history, top-tier academics and lots of school spirit. Consequently, it is an extremely popular choice amongst high school seniors with a variety of different interests and specialties.
4 Tips for Medical School Applicants
Med School Advice from a Former Medical School Admissions Officer
Interested in applying to medical school? Gaining admission to medical school is a competitive process, and applicants need to be in the best position possible in order to have the best chance of admission to a good-fit program.
How to Start Studying for the MCAT
How to Start Studying for the MCAT As part of the medical school admissions process students need to take the MCAT, which is a seven-and-a-half-hour exam (including breaks) with four sections. The MCAT is an intensive exam and students need to understand the content and formatting in order to prepare.
Waitlisted? Here’s What to Do Next
Learn How to Weigh Your Options and Make the Most of a Waitlist Decision
Unlike acceptance or rejection, the path for waitlisted students is a little unclear. Some applicants may be unsure about what their admissions odds are, what they can do to improve their chances of acceptance, and if staying on the waitlist is even worthwhile.
How to Cope with Every Kind of Admissions Decision
How to Feel Your Best When Admission Decision Time Comes
For students who applied to colleges in the regular round, March and April can feel like an emotional roller coaster. Between waiting for admissions decisions, receiving a verdict from each school on your best fit list, and deciding where to enroll, the spring season marks a major milestone for many high school seniors.
Medical School Admissions 101: How Important is GPA?
Similar to the college application process, grades are one of the most important factors in admissions decisions for medical school. In fact, the Association of American Medical Colleges rates GPA as one of the most important academic metrics according to a survey of admissions officers.
5 Questions to Ask Before Declaring a College Major
Ask the Right Questions to Choose a Major That Connects to Your Goals
Selecting a college to enroll in is one of the most important decisions students have to make, but it’s not the only major academic choice most will face. Choosing a major is an important milestone, and it’s not uncommon for some students to enter college as “undecided” majors. Although policies vary by institution, most students will need to declare a major by sophomore year if they haven’t already.
MCAT Prep: 4 Questions to Ask About Your MCAT Score
Important Testing FYIs for Students Preparing for the MCAT Exam
For students considering a career in medicine, the MCAT is already on their radar. The exam has a reputation for being particularly grueling and most students spend months, if not years, studying for it. In addition to knowing the material inside and out, students need to become familiar with the test itself in order to accurately interpret their scores.
6 Things to Consider When You Don’t Know What to Major in
Explore Your Interests to Identify Your College Course of StudyWhen it comes to the college admissions process, the first question students are often asked is “what do you plan to study?” Choosing best-fit schools to apply to is stressful enough without factoring in that students also have to make hard decisions about what they want to major in while still in high school.
Class of 2023 Early Admission Rates
Here are the Early Admissions Statistics for the Class of 2023
The first members of the college class of 2023 are in! Here’s our breakdown of the early admission numbers for the class of 2023. More decisions will be released this month and into January, along with statistics, so we will be updating as more information becomes available!
Med School Admissions 101: Guide to the AMCAS Application
Now’s The Time to Consider Your Medical School Application Strategy
If you’re considering applying to medical school, it’s likely that you’ll be using the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) to apply to your best-fit medical school programs. Before you start formulating your medical school application strategy, however, it’s important to understand what to expect.
Early Application Outcomes: How to Deal
Here’s What to Do if You’re Accepted, Rejected, or Deferred
Many colleges are announcing early admissions decisions this week and applicants need to prepare for a variety outcomes including acceptance, rejection, or a deferral.
Misconceptions About Financial Aid in EA Rounds
We’re Here to Clear Up Some Fin Aid Myths for Students Applying ED or EA This Fall
Whether you’re putting the finishing touches on your applications or looking ahead to the following year, many students and families are curious about what kind of financial aid is available in the early round.
4 Things to Review Before Submitting Your College Apps
Keep an Eye Out for Common Mistakes When Reviewing Your Applications Before Hitting “Submit”
Early application deadlines are around the corner, and for students planning to apply to their top-choice colleges by November, it’s time to put the finishing touches on their applications. Students should take time to review their applications before submitting, but what should they be mindful of when proofreading their college apps?
Class of 2022 Waitlist Statistics
2018 Is A Mixed Bag For Waitlist Statistics
Getting waitlisted can be a confusing and stressful admissions outcome for college bound students, and with record-low admission rates and record-high applicant pools, many college waitlists are growing while the chances of admission off the waitlist are hard to predict.
5 Tips for Students Waitlisted at Their Top-Choice College
A Waitlist Decision Can Be Confusing, So What Should You Do?
So you’ve been placed on the dreaded waitlist. Now what? There’s actually a lot that students can do to maximize their chances of admission off the waitlist.
ED II Decisions: How to Prepare for All Outcomes
Students Who Applied ED II To Their Top-Choice Colleges Should Prepare For All Outcomes
Many ED II decisions for the class of 2022 will be released this week, with students finding out if they were accepted, rejected, or deferred at their top-choice colleges. Here’s what students need to do one they learn of their decisions.
Class of 2022 Early Admission Rates
Here are the Early Admissions Statistics for the Class of 2022
The first members of the college class of 2022 are in! Are you curious to see how this year’s early applicants compared to the class of 2021? Here’s our breakdown of the early admission numbers for the class of 2022. More decisions will be released later this week, along with statistics, so we will be updating as more information becomes available!
