Why Extracurricular Activities Matter
Understand Why Extracurricular Activities Count and What You Can Do to Stand OutThere’s no denying that extracurricular activities are important: 81% of US universities assign some level of significance to a student’s after-school endeavors when it comes to making admissions decisions. Colleges want to learn about their applicants holistically, including the causes they are passionate about and what they enjoy doing in their free time.
Behind on Your College Apps? You’re Not Alone
Get Back on Track If You’ve Fallen Behind on College ApplicationsIf you feel behind on your college applications this semester, you’re not the only one. 47% of all high school seniors have not started applying to college yet, according to a survey by Niche and Tudor Collegiate Strategies.
First-Year Enrollment is Down – Is this Good News for the Class of 2025?
What Do Enrollment Declines Mean for the Class of 2025?
From canceled SAT exams to extended application deadlines, the Class of 2025 has faced plenty of changes throughout their admissions cycle. In the midst of this disruptive era, there’s also another factor that could impact admissions this cycle: first-year enrollment is down.
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.
How to Give Back Without Leaving Your Living Room
Giving Back While Staying Socially Distant Although many students are eager to give back and make an impact, volunteering in 2020 poses some significant challenges. With many outreach programs on pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some students may be wondering how they can help their community without leaving home.
List of SAT/ACT Optional Colleges for 2020-21
UPDATED: List of 2020-21 Test-Optional Colleges In light of cancellations for many spring and summer ACT and SAT exams because of COVID-19, a number of colleges have decided to shift to a test-optional admissions process for the 2020-21 admissions cycle.
Should I Write About COVID-19 in My College Applications?
College Counselors Give Advice on How to Address COVID-19 In College ApplicationsAs seniors prepare to submit applications during an admissions cycle unlike any other, many students may be wondering whether or not they should discuss the pandemic and if so, how? While there isn’t a universal approach that will be best for every applicant, there are some tips students should keep in mind when planning their approach.
How to Stand Out When Applying for Scholarships
Make the Most of Applying for Scholarships with These TipsScholarships are a win-win: students can help reduce the costs associated with attending college while also adding to their resumes. As an added bonus, the vast array of different scholarship options out there means there is truly an opportunity for every student.
IvyWise Pro Bono Student Feature: Alexis
IvyWise Pro Bono Student Alexis Shares Her Tips for Students Applying to CollegeFor current seniors, the college application process is in full swing. It can be a high-stress time for many, particularly during an application cycle that has been marked by changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s so important to have perspective when going through the admissions journey, which is why we’ve reached out to one of our own students, Alexis, to share some advice for future applicants.
ISEE vs. SSAT
Compare the ISEE and SSAT
For students and families who are interested in the private school application process, there are generally two major tests on their radar: the ISEE and the SSAT. While both exams have a lot in common, there are also some distinct differences between the tests that students should keep in mind.
College Admissions Changes During a Global Shift
Learn What College Admissions Changes to Expect Now and in the Future The college admissions process has always been multifaceted and complex, but the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic have added a new layer of uncertainty. From limited testing options to a lack of campus tours, college applicants are experiencing a new playing field with several noteworthy differences.
How Tutors Can Help Students with Independent Projects
Learn How Working with a Tutor Will Level Up Your Independent ProjectsBy Carrie, IvyWise Master Tutor
When most students think of tutoring, academic support and test preparation are likely the first two things to come to mind. While both are undoubtedly important components of tutoring, students also have the opportunity to receive guidance on independent projects through mentorship.
5 Ways to Demonstrate Creativity in Your College Apps
Learn How to Emphasize Creativity and Why it CountsStudents who are eager to stand out on their college applications can’t overlook the importance of demonstrating creativity. Based on a recent Adobe study, 95% of admissions decision-makers believe in the value of creative skills. Despite this, only 20% of the same group report that students demonstrate their creativity “very well” on college applications and nearly 70% of students don’t know where to showcase these skills on their college applications.
The Pros and Cons of Applying Early This Fall
An Admissions Counselor’s Top Considerations for Applying to College Early
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 the current application cycle that is already rife with change and uncertainty.
What is the New Normal for Colleges and Universities?
Learn What the New Normal Looks Like at Colleges and UniversitiesWith the back to school season well under way, students are preparing for fall semesters that will likely feel very different from years past. From remote learning models to mandatory quarantine periods, every college and university has its own approach to creating a new normal.
5 Questions to Ask When Finalizing Your College List
If You’re Finalizing Your College List, You Should Answer These QuestionsFinalizing your college list is one of the most important decisions high school students will have to make. Before solidifying your choices, it’s important to research each school thoroughly and reflect on what you are looking for in a college.
Back to School with IvyWise 2020
Use Our New Resources to Make the Most of This Unusual Semester
As COVID-19 continues to cause ongoing uncertainty for students across the globe, we’re debuting a new set of resources to help you navigate this unusual semester. Back to School with IvyWise is our latest initiative designed to provide students and families with comprehensive academic and college admissions support.
Students Who Receive Tutoring are More Prepared for College
Learn Why Students Who Participate in Tutoring Have an EdgeWhether you’re struggling in a specific class or looking to get ahead, tutoring can be an excellent opportunity for students to overcome academic challenges and gain confidence. By working one-on-one with an experienced tutor, students can build the foundation for effective work habits that will serve them throughout their educational journey and beyond.
Navigating Fall Testing in 2020
What You Need to Know if Testing is on Your Radar This FallThis fall, students may feel like they’re approaching a crossroads. While many originally planned on taking the PSAT, SAT, or ACT during their fall semester, the COVID-19 pandemic has added a layer of uncertainty to their college preparation plans. As some testing sites begin to reopen, new questions have emerged. Some students may be wondering whether they should register for a fall exam, what taking the SAT or ACT during the COVID-19 pandemic will look like, and what their options are if they decide against sitting for an exam.
5 Tips for Staying Engaged During Online Lessons
Discover How to Stay Engaged During Your Online ClassesWith a growing number of schools opting for remote lessons or hybridized models this fall, online courses will be a part of many students’ reality. While completing coursework from the comfort of your bedroom might sound appealing, it’s important to stay just as engaged as you would in a classroom or lecture hall.