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.
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.
Class of 2026 Early Decision Notification Dates
Early Decision and Early Action Notification Dates for the 2021-22 Application Season 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!
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.
Colleges with No Application Fees
Colleges Where You Can Apply Without an Application Fee Students must weigh many considerations when compiling their list of best-fit colleges, including application fees. Many universities include a fee that applicants must pay when applying unless that student qualifies for fee waivers. However, there are a number of colleges without an accompanying application fee.
Staying Productive During A Pandemic
Learn How to Remain Productive Amidst All DistractionsAs summer break comes to a close, many students may find it challenging to stay productive. Add in the sense of uncertainty and disruption associated with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and it’s no wonder many students may feel as if they are struggling to stay on top of their studies.
5 Items to Check Off Your List Before the First Day of School
Have the Best First Day of School Possible By Checking These Items Off of Your To-Do ListWhether it’s in-person or online, the first day of school sets the tone for the rest of your academic year. Consequently, it’s important for students to come prepared and get started on the best note possible.
How to Make the Most of the Back-to-School Season
Start the Back-to-School Season on the Best Note PossibleIt’s safe to say that for many students, this year’s back to school season will be unlike any other. With many colleges and high schools offering remote or hybrid learning options, students may not be reuniting with their classmates face-to-face as they have in previous years.
IB vs AP: Which Is Best for College Admissions?
Learn the Key Differences Between IB and AP Curricula
For high school students looking to make the most of their courses, choosing between an International Baccalaureate (IB) and AP curriculum is often a top priority. While both choices are academically rigorous and can lead to college credit, there are also profound differences between the two programs.
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.
3 Tips for Standing Out During the College Application Process
Our Top Advice for Students Applying to College this Fall
The Common Application opened August 1, and millions of students across the globe will apply to college via the Common App this year. With so many students applying to college every year, most applicants have the same question on their minds: what can I do to increase my chances of standing out?
How to Start Your Gap Year Off on the Best Note
Learn How to Make the Most of a Gap YearA gap year is often an attractive option for some students looking to expand their horizons and learn outside of the classroom. With many campuses implementing fully virtual or hybrid education models this fall due to COVID-19, more students are considering taking a gap year.
New SAT to Old SAT Score Conversion Chart
SAT Score Conversion Chart for New SAT, Old SAT, and ACT ScoresWant to see how your scores on the SAT compare to ACT? The College Board has updated the concordance tables so students can see how their SAT total scores compare to composite ACT scores.
What to Know About Applying to College During COVID-19
What Seniors Should Remember Throughout the College Admissions Process
Applying to college can always feel a bit overwhelming for rising seniors, but this year students may be particularly susceptible to stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With so much uncertainty around campus life for the fall, prospective applicants have a unique set of questions and concerns on their radar.
SSAT Testing Changes for 2020-2021
SSAT Testing Updates to Keep on Your Radar
The SSAT is one of the most widely recognized standardized tests utilized by admissions officers to assess independent school applicants. The exam measures basic verbal, math, and reading skills and is offered in three levels: Elementary (for students in 3rd and 4th grade), Middle (for students in 5th-7th grade), and Upper (for students in 8th-11th grade).
What International Students Need to Know about Fall 2020
Understand New Guidelines for International Students Studying in the US This FallEveryone has questions about the fall 2020 college semester, but there’s an added level of uncertainty for international students. In addition to wondering whether campuses will reopen and how, some international students are also facing concerns about staying in the United States.
5 Must-Read Books for Your Summer Reading List
Great Books for Students Looking to Expand Their Outside Reading Lists
Whether it’s bringing your books to the beach or curling up with your Kindle at home, every student should include independent reading on their agenda this summer. In addition to getting lost in a good story, reading can help students stay academically engaged and better prepared for coursework in the fall.
2020-21 Common App Supplements
Get a Head Start on Applications By Reviewing These Supplements
Although the Common App doesn’t officially open until August 1st, it’s often in students’ best interest to get a jump start on personal essays and supplements. Many colleges understand that applicants are eager to begin the admissions process and as a result, some schools have already announced their school-specific essay prompts for the 2020-21 application season.
ACT Superscoring: Colleges that Superscore the ACT
Here are the Colleges that Superscore the ACT
Superscoring is the practice of considering only the highest section scores across all SAT or ACT test scores that are submitted when evaluating applications. Many schools already superscore for the SAT, but superscoring for the ACT has not always been widely practiced.
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 Tips for Making the Most of a Remote Internship
Remote Internships are a Valuable Opportunity for Students Looking to Get Ahead
Internships are a valuable opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience during the summer months. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these positions have shifted to virtual experiences in order to adhere to social distancing and safer at home orders.
Tips for Boosting Your TOEFL Score
Here’s What Students Need to Do to Reach Their Goal TOEFL Score
For many international students, taking the TOEFL exam is one of many steps on their radar for the US college admissions process. Many colleges do require TOEFL scores as part of their international application review process, so it’s important to do your research and see what the policy is at every school on your best-fit list.
Breaking a Sweat for a Good Cause
Here’s My Favorite Way to Stay Healthy and Give Back
By Dr. Kat Cohen, IvyWise Founder and CEO
Exercise and fitness have always been one of my go-to approaches to keep my energy high and stress levels low. Finding an outlet for my energy was difficult when safer-at-home orders went into effect, but like everyone else, I’ve gotten creative with how I break a sweat and continue to make an impact in the causes I care deeply about.
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.
Staying Motivated While Social Distancing This Summer
Keep Motivation Levels High All Summer Long
It can always be a challenge to maintain motivation during the summer months, some students may find it particularly difficult to stay engaged and on top of their to-do lists as they continue to socially distance.
Books on Race, Anti-Racism, and Social Justice
Reading is One Small Way to Self-Educate and Jumpstart ActivismConversations about anti-racism, social justice, and the experience of black Americans are extremely important, and the push to continue to amplify black voices and educate the masses about racism and systematic oppression has led teens and adults alike to search for resources to help them be better allies and overall more informed citizens.
How to Create Summer College Prep Goals
Make the Most of The Summer By Creating New Goals
Whether you’re working towards a target score for the ACT or SAT or putting the finishing touches on your list of best-fit schools, every student needs concrete goals to work towards throughout the college admissions process. Nailing down objectives is particularly important during the summer months while students have time away from schools and activities that might make it difficult to get ahead.
4 Ways to Celebrate Your Graduation Virtually
Get Creative to Make the Most of Your Graduation Experience
Most high school seniors envision graduation ceremonies complete with keynote speakers, photo opps in their caps and gowns, and parties with all of their friends. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the vast majority of seniors to alter their plans in order to accommodate social distancing and safer at home guidelines.