Class of 2025 College Application Numbers
Colleges Report Record-High Application Numbers for the Class of 2025 Despite several significant changes to the admissions cycle due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many schools are reporting record-breaking application numbers for the class of 2025.
College Board Eliminates SAT Subject Tests Permanently
SAT Subject Tests and the Essay Section of the SAT are Gone for GoodThe College Board announced that it is discontinuing SAT Subject Tests permanently, as well as revamping the current SAT exam to eliminate the optional essay section.
Colleges Extending Regular Decision Deadlines
Which Colleges Are Extending Their Regular Round Application Deadlines?Earlier this year, we announced that several colleges were opting to extend their early application deadlines. Now, several months later, it looks like many schools are following a similar path for their regular round process.
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.
College Planning for 2021
College Planning For Every Year of High SchoolWhether you’re in your first year of high school or getting ready for graduation, it’s important for students to stay consistent when it comes to college planning. To stay on track, we encourage students to set goals throughout their high school career that will ensure they meet every college preparation milestone.
Top College App Tips From Former Admissions
What Every Applicant Should Keep in Mind Before Regular Decision Deadlines For students who are working on regular decisions applications, the next few days are likely to be the home stretch. With many college application deadlines falling on January 1st, some students may be wondering what they can do to give their submissions that special “it” factor.
How International Students are Read in Admissions
What International Students Can Expect in the US Admissions ProcessThe US is still a popular destination for international students pursuing a university education, and US universities welcome international students with open arms. However, the admissions process for international students to US universities can be especially rigorous, as there are a number of requirements for international applicants and international students are read slightly differently than their US counterparts.
Just Admit It: Does Demonstrated Interest Really Matter?
A Recent Episode of Just Admit It! Explains How Demonstrated Interest Influences Your Admissions OddsWhile most students understand the importance of admissions factors like grades and test scores, many don’t realize that demonstrated interest can have a big impact on your chances of admission. Although it can’t be captured by a single number in a similar matter, that doesn’t mean that demonstrated interest doesn’t matter.
5 Ways to Deal With Test Anxiety
If You’re Dealing with Test Anxiety, Try These TipsFinal exams are approaching, and while pre-exam jitters are almost inevitable, some students may experience more pronounced stress levels due to test anxiety. If you worry and self-doubt are interfering with your test-taking experience, you’re not alone: as many as 30% of first-year college students experience test anxiety.
Just Admit It: Why do Supplemental Essays Matter?
How Important are Supplemental Essays?We all know the personal statement is a huge part of the college application, but how important are those extra supplemental essays? For many students writing fatigue can set in and they don’t spend as much time working on those – especially as application deadlines loom. So how important is it to spend time on those supplements?
What You Need to Know About the Latin SAT Subject Test
Read This If You’re Considering Taking the SAT Subject Test in LatinBy Andy, IvyWise Master Tutor
Once you’ve determined that you’re interested in taking SAT Subject Tests, the next question on many students’ minds is which exams they should take. While every SAT Subject Test is one-hour and designed to assess your knowledge and skills in a certain subject, the exams themselves vary greatly.
What to Know About AP Subject Tests
An Overview for Students Who Are Interested in AP Subject TestsAP Subject Tests are likely to be a part of many students’ high school experience as students take advanced courses in order to boost their course rigor. These exams can be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your expertise in a subject that you are passionate about and maybe even earn some college credit.
Just Admit It: What’s Going on With Standardized Testing?
Learn What’s Happening With Standardized Testing Right NowIt’s a question on many students’ minds, particularly during an application cycle marked with uncertainty: what’s happening with standardized testing? With an increasing number of schools transitioning to test optional policies, some applicants may wonder if it is even worth it to take the SAT or ACT.
Tips for Success in a Flipped Classroom
Learn How to Make the Most of a Flipped Classroom ExperienceBy Kaitlyn, IvyWise Master Tutor
The flipped classroom model is gaining popularity as schools continue to adapt to the changes brought on by the ongoing pandemic. In a flipped classroom, the instruction doesn’t take place in class. Instead, class time is spent answering questions and discussing topics, with videos and note taking reserved for homework.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
IB vs. AP: Which Is Best for College Admissions?
Learn the Key Differences Between IB vs. 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.
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.
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 ScoreBy Joey, IvyWise Tutor
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.
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.
