How to Research Colleges

Researching colleges is a large part of the college planning process, but it can be confusing! Thorough research helps students and their families make informed decisions about the future, but how are you supposed to research colleges?

What is important to know? What should you be looking for, and where should you be looking?

Choosing a college is about finding a place where students can thrive, grow, and achieve their goals. This guide will teach you how to navigate your college research effectively. Continue reading to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to select your best college fit.

Understand Your Needs and Preferences

The first step in researching colleges is self-reflection. Take some time to determine what you want and need from a college experience. We recommend looking at three areas of college fit: academic, social, and financial.

Consider factors such as the size of the institution, cost of attendance, location (urban vs. rural, distance from home), majors and academic programs offered, campus culture, and available extracurricular activities. 

As you consider the different aspects of college fit, keep a list of the criteria you want your college to have (or not have!). Once you have a list of your unique college fit criteria, decide which factors are your “must-haves” versus things that would be “nice to have” in a college but are negotiable. 

At the same time, make a note of anything on your “no way” list—criteria your ideal college would not have. 

While you research colleges, keep your fit list handy. Compare what you learn about the college to your college fit criteria and ask yourself, “How well does this college fit me?”

Online Research

Start with official college websites to get an accurate sense of that institution. Explore the college website thoroughly, including pages for academic departments that interest you, student and residential life, admissions, and so on. 

Dive deep into the opportunities that interest you. For academic interests, review the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and the availability of learning opportunities related to your field of interest. For extracurricular interests, browse the list of student organizations on campus. Visit the webpages for student services that interest you, including career services, study abroad, residence life, and financial aid. Don't hesitate to contact admissions counselors with questions that pop up along the way.

Often, colleges will have other associated resources outside of the official website. Check to see if the college you are researching has a YouTube channel (Pro Tip: Specific departments may also have their own channel!), an online student newspaper, or social media accounts for various departments or student organizations. These are trustworthy resources that can give you an idea of what daily campus life is like.

Additional online resources are available to help you with your college research. Some provide statistics on costs, demographics, graduation rates, and post-college earnings. Others are opinion-based sites that can provide useful information. However, keep in mind that people typically only review things they feel strongly about (whether positive or negative), so take reviews with a grain of salt!

Here’s a list of websites to get you started:

• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard 

• College Data

• College Navigator

• Niche

• Unigo

A note about college ranking lists:

We intentionally did not include any college-ranking sites that you may be familiar with because there are better ways to measure college fit. 

We understand why ranking lists are appealing, but college fit should start with the student’s needs and priorities instead of with an outside opinion. 

Understanding the metrics and methodologies used to generate the rankings is also critical. Often, what is measured to determine ranking doesn't include many factors students and families identify as important to college fit. Rankings are just one piece of a very large puzzle.

Campus Visits

Nothing compares to the insights gained from visiting a campus. These visits give students a first-hand impression of the college's atmosphere, community, and facilities. 

Virtual tours are a great starting point, especially for colleges that are far from home! 

For in-person visits, plan ahead to make the most of your trip. Students should try to attend official information sessions and tours, but they can also sit in on classes, arrange to meet with professors, and explore the campus and surrounding area on their own to get a genuine feel for student life.

College Fairs & High School Visits

College fairs and high school visits let students connect with college representatives away from the college campus. 

College fairs help prospective students learn about many different colleges at once. Typically, participating colleges set up booths or tables where students can ask questions and pick up information about the school.

High school visits are when college representatives come directly to the high school to meet students and share about their college. Many of these visits happen in the fall of senior year and are often a good chance to connect with the admissions officers. Sometimes, the admissions representative who reads applications for that high school will be the one to visit, so it’s a great opportunity for students to introduce themselves and put a face with a name. 

College fairs and high school visits give students direct insights from college representatives. Prepare a list of questions to ask at these events. Make notes during conversations, and collect contact information for follow-up questions. And don’t forget to send a thank you email to anyone you connect with at these events!

USE Your Network

Do you know anyone who attends or has recently graduated from the colleges on your list? These people are great resources!

Connecting with current students and recent alumni can give students a unique perspective on the college experience. Ask about their personal experiences, challenges, and what they love most about their college. This firsthand information can be incredibly revealing and may highlight parts of college life you hadn't previously considered.

If you don’t have any direct connections to a college, ask your college counselor or contact the college’s admissions office to see if they can connect you to a current student.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial fit should not be ignored as you conduct your college research! 

While you are researching academic programs and exploring social fit, also make sure you understand each college’s total cost of attendance. Research the various types of financial aid available, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Look up additional details like the average debt of graduates. 

Including financial factors in your research lets families assess the affordability of a college and avoid unwelcome financial surprises down the line.

Staying Organized

With so much information to process, staying organized is key. Figure out the system that works best for you!

You may use spreadsheets, digital folders, or notebooks to keep track of your research findings. As you collect information about the colleges you research, you can begin to narrow down your list of potential colleges based on how well they align with your criteria and priorities. 

Staying organized will help focus your efforts on the schools that are most likely to be a good fit.

Pro Tip: Hold onto your notes even after you’ve finalized the list of colleges where you will be applying. 

When you start applications in your senior year, many colleges may have an additional “Why this college?” supplemental essay. Work smarter, not harder, by returning to your notes that connect the dots between your interests and the college.

These notes can also be a helpful tool when it comes time to make your final college decision!

Now, go research!

College research can sometimes feel like a homework assignment, but think of it as the foundation of choosing your best-fit college. Solid college research supports students and their families in making informed decisions that are based on a deep understanding of what each college offers and how it aligns with the student’s needs and goals. 

Remember, finding the right college is a journey that requires patience and an open mind. Approach your college search with curiosity and enthusiasm! The effort you put into researching colleges today will pay off when you find a school that feels like home!

How to Prepare for College Visits

Going on college campus visits is an important step toward finding the best college for you. These visits give you a taste of where you might spend the next few years, providing insight into academic life, campus culture, and the surrounding community. Seeing a college in person often makes the college planning process more exciting because you can start envisioning yourself as a college student.

It’s essential to plan ahead to make the most of these experiences — and this planning can begin weeks before you actually set foot on a college campus. This guide will walk you through action steps to take in the weeks and days leading up to your campus visit, as well as tips for making the most of your experience once you arrive.

Long-term Preparation (Weeks in Advance)

Schedule Your Visit Well in Advance

Timing is everything. Ideally, you would like to visit a college campus during the academic semester so you can see what life is like on a daily basis. Visiting during a time when students are away from campus — like spring break or during the summer — may not provide the experience you are hoping for if you want to see a bustling campus filled with students.

Admissions offices also have limited space available for daily information sessions and campus tours, and they can fill up quickly during popular times of the year. Because many high school students have breaks around the same time, certain times of year — like fall break, Thanksgiving, and spring break— are peak seasons for campus visits. Make sure to plan ahead to have enough time to register and secure your spot.

Pro Tip: We recommend official campus visits whenever possible so the college has a record of your visit. Sign up for official campus visits using the student’s personal email address. This is how the college will continue to communicate with you. 

Research the College & Surrounding Area

To make the most of your college visit, do some research before you arrive. Visit the college website to learn more about academic offerings or parts of campus life that interest you most. Make a note of anything specific you would like to see on your campus visit or any questions you would like to have answered. 

Also, take time to research the surrounding area. A college isn’t just an isolated environment; it's part of a larger community. Spend time on the college's website and use other resources (even maps!) to get familiar with the area around campus. This research can help you understand the college's relationship with its community and identify potential off-campus activities that may interest you.

Tips for Lodging, Dining & Transportation

Figuring out accommodations, meals, and how you will get around are also part of planning a college visit. Look for lodging options near the campus to minimize travel time. Some colleges even offer suggestions or discounts for nearby hotels. 

Consider dining options both on and off campus to sample local cuisine and maybe even see current students around town.

You also need to figure out transportation, especially if your family is not driving to the college. If your family is flying, will you need to rent a car? If you are in a more urban area, can you get around using public transportation or ride-share options? 

Planning for Multiple Visits

Limit your visits to no more than two schools per day so that you can fully absorb your experiences and avoid fatigue. Carefully plan your route between the campuses, taking travel times into account. This ensures you arrive at each campus relaxed and ready to explore.

Right Before the Visit (Days in Advance)

Finalizing Logistics

Parking and Transportation: Verify parking options and locations in advance. Some campuses are more navigable on foot or by public transport, especially those in urban areas or historic colleges with limited parking. If you will not be parking near the admissions office, give yourself enough time to travel on foot to where your official visit begins.

Weather Considerations: Check the forecast and pack accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, or umbrellas can make your visit more enjoyable. No one wants to tour a campus with achy, wet feet!

Setting Goals for Your Visit

Before your campus visits, go over your college criteria to revisit which aspects of college life are most important to you. This is a great family discussion to get everyone on the same page ahead of the campus visit!

As a family or on your own, prepare a list of questions that you want answered during your visit. Determine who can best answer these questions (Is it an admissions officer? Your student tour guide?) so you can make sure to seek them out. 

Unofficial Visits & Self-Guided Tours

If an official tour isn’t available, don’t feel discouraged. Many colleges offer materials for self-guided tours. These can still be a great way to explore at your own pace. 

Before your self-guided tour, reach out to the Office of Admissions to let them know you will be on campus. You can also ask any questions related to your academic interests or any other area of campus life ahead of your visit (I like to ask for a recommendation of what I definitely shouldn’t miss while visiting their campus). 

The college may also have recorded information sessions or a virtual tour on their admissions website. Reviewing these materials beforehand — along with your previous research — will help you get the full picture when you set foot on campus.

Regardless of the tour type, be observant! Notice the buildings on campus, the interactions between students, and the overall atmosphere. Take lots of notes and pictures to help you remember your experience when you’ve returned home.

Preparing for a college campus visit involves more than just showing up. With some research, an intentional plan, and clear goals, you can ensure that your campus visit is both enjoyable and informative. Remember to keep an open mind and absorb as much as you can about each campus. This thoughtful approach will help you make an informed decision when it comes time to choose the college that’s right for you!

How Many AP Classes Should I Take?

When high school students are signing up for the next year’s classes, one question comes up over and over again: How many AP classes should I take?

Students pursue AP courses for a number of reasons. Maybe you aren’t feeling challenged by standard course material. Maybe you hope to earn college credit by scoring well on AP exams. Maybe you are applying to selective colleges and want to highlight a rigorous curriculum on your transcript. Maybe it’s all three!

These are all good reasons to pursue advanced coursework, but it doesn’t answer the question of how many AP classes students should take. Do colleges expect a certain number? Is the number of AP courses more important the the grades you earn in them? Should you take all AP classes? 

As is the case with many questions about college planning, the answer is “it depends!” There is no “magic number” of AP classes because every student’s current circumstances and future goals are unique to them. 

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what you should consider when determining the best number of AP courses for you.

Note: Even though we’re talking about AP classes in this blog post, you can apply the same logic to Honors, IB, or Dual Enrollment classes depending on what your high school offers.

1. How Many AP Courses Does Your School Offer?

The first step when deciding how many AP classes you should take is to look at what your school offers. Not all high schools have the same AP courses available, so it's important to understand your options.

Some schools offer AP options in a wide range of subjects while others may have more limited options. And some high schools may not offer less popular AP classes every year which requires some planning ahead if you want to take that course. What is available to you?

Remember that your college application is reviewed in the context of your high school. That means admissions officers will know what is available at your school and can see the path you pursued. If you have a friend attending another high school with different curriculum options, don’t worry if their schedule looks different from yours. 

Figure out what your options are and then map out a plan that aligns with your academic and college planning goals.

2. Can You Keep Your Grades Up?

Once you have a clear understanding of the AP courses available at your school, the next step is to determine your academic goals. 

Do you want to challenge yourself or dive deeper into your favorite subjects? Or are you hoping to demonstrate college readiness across the board to a selective college?  

Answering these questions can help you decide if you want to take 1 or 2 AP courses in specific areas or if you want to add more to your schedule.

But remember, AP classes are tough! They are college-level courses that require more time, effort, and homework than standard-level classes. Ask yourself: 

• Can I realistically earn an A or B in all of these classes? 

• Can I maintain (or exceed) this level of rigor for the rest of high school?

• Can I keep up in these classes while maintaining a healthy balance outside of school? (ie: Having enough time for extracurriculars, free time, and enough sleep)

Challenging yourself is a good thing! But don’t take on so much that your grades suffer or you feel like you’re burning out while still in high school. 

3. What Do the Colleges on Your List Consider Competitive?

The number of AP courses you should aim to take also depends on the colleges you are considering. More selective colleges often expect competitive applicants to take a challenging course load, which includes AP classes if they are available at your high school. 

However, the definition of "competitive" varies from college to college. One college might view three to five AP courses as rigorous, while another might expect significantly more. 

Some colleges are transparent with this information, like the University of Georgia which posts regular admissions statistics on their blog (the class of 2023 averaged 8-13 AP courses!). Others may include information about advanced courses in a profile of admitted freshmen or elsewhere on the admissions website. Research the expectations of your target colleges early so you can plan your high school schedule accordingly.

4. What Do You Want to Major In?

Your intended major might also influence the number of AP courses you decide to take. If you're leaning towards a particular field of study, taking AP courses related to that discipline can strengthen your college application and prepare you for future coursework. For instance, if you're interested in engineering, taking AP Calculus and AP Physics can be beneficial. Or if you’re interested in political science, AP courses in areas like history, government, or economics may be of more interest.

Tailoring your AP courses to your college major and career goals not only demonstrates your interest in your chosen field but also gives you a solid foundation for the classes you’ll be taking in college.

In the end, the question of how many AP classes to take is multifaceted and unique to every student. There is no “magic number” that will guarantee your success. Instead, your high school academic plan hinges on what is available at your school, your personal academic strengths and interests, the expectations of prospective colleges, and even your future major. 

Finding a balance between challenging yourself and maintaining a manageable workload is key. Remember, the goal is not just to impress college admissions officers but also to prepare yourself for the rigor of college academics. By thoughtfully considering these factors, you can make informed decisions that align with your goals!

5 Action Steps While You Wait for College Admissions Decisions

The wait for college admissions decisions can be an anxious time for many students and their families. And we know just how long it can feel! Some students submit their applications months before they receive a decision, and most students will not have all of their decisions “in hand” until April 1st of their senior year. 

The wait is tough. However, it's also a crucial period to stay proactive and positive. Here are some 5 action steps (plus 1 bonus step!) you can take during this waiting phase to make sure you’re in the best position to take your next steps after high school graduation.

1. Keep Your Grades Up

First and foremost, no Senioritis! It's essential to maintain your academic performance even after applications are submitted. If your application is deferred or placed on a college’s waitlist, your first-semester and even second-semester senior year grades may play a role in your application decision. Additionally, you will be required to send a final transcript to the college you choose to attend. 

A significant drop in grades could negatively impact your admissions status or any potential scholarships. So don’t drop that morning class so you can sleep in, complete your assignments on time, and study for your exams. Your senior year grades are just as important as your previous ones, and keeping your grades up shows colleges your commitment to learning.

2. Focus on the Acceptances, Not the Denials

It's natural to feel disappointed if you receive a denial from a college you were excited about, but don’t let it take away from the excitement of an acceptance! Try to shift your focus to the schools that have accepted you and are excited to have you join their campus community! 

Every college offers unique opportunities and experiences. Embrace the possibilities that exist at the colleges where you’ve been admitted, and envision your next four years on those campuses. If you need to do a little more research on the college’s website or social media accounts to get the complete picture, this is a great time to do that exploration. 

Remember that where you go to college doesn't define your future success—it's what you do with the opportunities in front of you. It’s not where you attend college but how.

3. Campus Visits, Open Houses & Admitted Students Days

Now is the perfect time to visit any colleges where you’ve been admitted—especially if you haven’t been before! Campus visits can give you insight into the student experience and what life at that college is like.

Even if you have toured a particular campus before, you may see the college through “new eyes” now that you know you’ve been admitted. A second visit can help you make a more informed decision. 

Spring is also a time when many colleges offer open houses or admitted student days. These campus events go more in-depth than a standard college tour and bring together students who may be your classmates in a few short months. These events generate a lot of excitement around the campus and let you get a taste of all the school has to offer.

4. Stay on Track with Updates from Colleges

Pay attention to any communication from colleges, whether by email, text, or postal mail. This includes colleges you’ve been admitted to as well as colleges you are still waiting to hear from!

Colleges may contact you during this time for additional information (such as updated grades), housing applications, college-specific scholarship applications, orientation dates, and more. Missing an important deadline can have significant consequences (like missing out on housing), so keep regularly checking your email and the colleges' admissions portals. 

Pro Tip: Be proactive in reaching out to admissions offices if you have any questions or concerns along the way.

5. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

The college decision waiting period is a great time to make sure you’re continuing with financial planning in the college admissions process. If you haven't already, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for federal financial aid, as well as the CSS Profile if any of your colleges require it. Remember that colleges have different deadlines for these forms, so check with each school to ensure you submit information on time.

You may also want to search for scholarships that match your background, skills, and interests. You can follow the college’s processes for applying for institution-based scholarships or look outside of the college for scholarship opportunities. 

If you are interested in applying for outside scholarships, check out our blog post on the same topic: Scholarships 101: The Scoop on Outside Scholarships.

Bonus Step 6: Enjoy Senior Year!

Don't forget to enjoy your senior year of high school! This is a unique and special time in your life, filled with memorable experiences and milestones. Take time to celebrate your achievements and create lasting memories with friends and family.

The period between submitting college applications and receiving decisions can feel like a waiting game. But there are things you can do to take action right now and put yourself in the best position to make YOUR college decision. By focusing on your academics, exploring your options, staying positive, and keeping up with admissions tasks, you're setting yourself up for success. 

Stay focused, stay positive, and look forward to the exciting times ahead!

What to Know About the FAFSA Changes

Each year, families seeking need-based financial aid to help pay for college fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Typically, this form opens on October 1st—right around fall application deadlines—but the FAFSA is undergoing some substantial changes for the 2024-2025 award year. 

These changes are due to the FAFSA Simplification Act enacted in 2022 and will go into effect beginning in the 2024-2025 award year. 

Overall, there will be fewer questions on the new, simplified FAFSA (the old FAFSA had more than 100 questions, and the new FAFSA will have less than 50), and the formulas that determine a family’s eligibility for aid have been updated for the first time in a long while. Other changes and adjustments throughout may impact your family’s experience of filling out the FAFSA as well as financial planning for college. 

When filling out the FAFSA for next school year, here are 8 changes to have on your radar:

A Later Timeline

This year, the FAFSA is scheduled to open by December 31, 2023. This is expected to be a temporary change for this award year only, but the timing might impact this financial aid cycle. 

College financial aid offices will receive the FAFSA much later this year than in previous years, so families might receive their financial aid award offers later than anticipated. Everyone should have their financial aid results in hand ahead of May 1, 2024, but families might not have a lot of time to compare all of their options before making a final decision.

Because the timeline is later than usual, families should plan to fill out the FAFSA as soon as it opens. Some needs-based aid may only be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting your FAFSA quickly can increase your chances of qualifying for more funding.  

Everyone Needs an FSA ID

An FSA ID is the username and password needed to log into studentaid.gov, where the FAFSA can be filled out. Previously, only the student and the parent filling out the FAFSA needed to register for an FSA ID before accessing the FAFSA. 

Now, anyone who is required to provide information on the FAFSA form will need their own FSA ID to access and complete their portion of the form. The Student Aid website lists these contributors as “the student, the student's spouse, a biological or adoptive parent, or the parent's spouse.”

Students will not be able to submit the FAFSA until every contributor has their FSA ID. 

The EFC is now the SAI 

Important FAFSA terminology and formulas are changing. 

The Student Aid Index (SAI) is replacing Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This calculation determines the amount of financial aid a student can receive based on their household’s ability to afford the cost of college.  

Like the EFC before it, the SAI is used to calculate need-based financial aid. A family’s need is determined by:

SCHOOL’S COST OF ATTENDANCE (COA) - STUDENT AID INDEX (SAI) = FINANCIAL NEED

The SAI and EFC are similar, but the SAI differs in key ways for many families. To learn more about the new SAI methodology, check out this guide from the Department of Education. 

Students Can Send the FAFSA to 20 Colleges

Students can list more institutions, up to 20 schools, on their online FAFSA form. (Those filling out the paper PDF version of the form are still limited to 10.) 

Do you need to apply to 20 schools? Most likely not! If you’re curious about how to build your college list or how many schools you should apply to, check out our blog post on Building a Balanced College List.

The FAFSA is now available in more languages

This is a huge win for accessibility! Previously, the FAFSA was only available in English and Spanish. Moving forward, families can access the FAFSA in the 11 most commonly spoken languages in the US. 

Pell Grant Expansion

The Pell Grant is need-based financial aid determined by poverty guidelines, family size, and household income. Different from a loan, the Pell Grant does not need to be repaid. 

Under the new FAFSA, more students will qualify for the Pell Grant depending on their family circumstances and their SAI. 

If a student’s SAI exceeds the maximum Pell Grant award, they can still receive a partial grant depending on how their family size and household income relate to poverty guidelines. Additionally, the minimum possible SAI is now  -$1,500 where the old EFC metric stopped at a minimum of $0. 

Changes for families with more than one child IN college 

Previously, families would receive a “sibling discount” in instances where more than one child attended college simultaneously. The new methodology no longer considers the number of family members attending college at the same time when determining financial aid. 

This change means that families with multiple college students could receive less aid for the 2024-25 school year—even if those students are not filling out the FAFSA for the first time. However, schools can use their own institutional funds to adjust financial aid packages at their discretion to offset these new costs.

Changes for divorced families

The new FAFSA will use the income of the parent who provides the most financial support in divorced households. Previously, families reported the income of the parent the student lived with for most of the year.

Action Steps

While families wait for the FAFSA to open, here are some steps you can take to prepare. 

• Have a family conversation about financial fit - Make sure everyone is on the same page about your family’s budget for college to avoid unpleasant surprises later on. Here are some blog posts on financial fit to help inform your discussion:

• The Scoop on Outside Scholarships

• How Can I Get More Merit Aid from Colleges?

• Measuring a College’s Financial Generosity

• Create your FSA ID - Everyone contributing to the FAFSA can set up their FSA ID account before the FAFSA even opens. It can take a few days for the FSA ID to process, so setting this up ahead of time will save you time once the FAFSA opens.

• Fill out the CSS Profile (if necessary) - The CSS Profile is a separate financial aid application in addition to the FAFSA. More than 200 colleges require the CSS Profile to distribute institutional aid. Some colleges will need both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile to be considered for financial aid. Note: there is a fee for each college (the irony of paying to apply for financial aid is not lost on us).

The College Planning Timeline for Student Athletes

Many student-athletes dream of playing their sport in college. However, the journey from high school athlete to college athlete requires careful planning and preparation. In this blog post, we’ll explore what student-athletes need to know about as they enter the college recruiting process. 

Before diving into the college planning and recruiting timeline, student-athletes should be aware of some fundamental principles.

Understand Your Values and Motivations

It's crucial to have a clear understanding of why you want to play your sport in college. Are you driven by a love for the game, the desire to compete at a higher level, or the pursuit of a future career in sports? Knowing your motivations will guide your college planning process and help you identify schools and athletic programs that are a good fit.

Explore College Readiness & Time Management

The college athlete experience is different from the typical college journey. Student-athletes need to be prepared for rigorous schedules that include athletic, academic, and social commitments. In high school, many student-athletes are supported by their parents. But in college, student-athletes will have to balance their busy schedules on their own. It’s essential to develop strong time management skills and academic readiness during high school to have the foundation to succeed in college. 

Be Willing to Self-Advocate

Much of the college recruiting process is student-driven. Students need to actively reach out to coaches, continuously communicate their achievements and goals, and advocate for themselves. Being proactive in the recruiting process is one key to getting noticed by college coaches.

Start Early

The college planning process for student-athletes begins earlier than it might for students who won’t be playing a sport in college. Coaches want to build the strongest recruiting class they can, and they want to finalize their roster sooner rather than later. It’s important to be prepared for the application process so there aren’t any hold-ups that could cost you your place on a team.

Student-Athlete College Planning Timeline

Freshman Year

In the first year of high school, student-athletes should focus on the following:

• Academic Planning: Ensure you’re on track to take the right classes to meet college admission requirements, including core courses and GPA goals.

• Sports Specialization Consideration: Decide whether to prioritize one sport or continue with multiple sports. While some coaches appreciate multi-sport athletes, it’s important not to spread yourself too thin.

• Plan for High-Level Athletics: You’ll want to find your way to the highest level or league possible for your sport. Participate where you'll be noticed, and consider showcasing your skills in relevant tournaments and showcases. While it’s not the only way to get a coach’s attention, coaches tend to recruit at higher-level events.

Sophomore Year

Moving into sophomore year, it’s time to get serious about college planning:

• Set a Budget for College: Begin thinking about the cost of college. Research scholarships, financial aid, and set your family’s budget for college. You don’t want to be recruited by a school you love only to have to turn down the offer because your family can’t afford the cost. Determining your financial fit first will let you tailor your college search process from the beginning.

  • Pro Tip - That athletic full-ride scholarship isn’t likely. While some colleges do award scholarships for athletes, the average Divison I scholarship is only $10,400. That number drops to $8,700 if you remove football and basketball from the equation. And remember, Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships at all.

• Create a College List: Start building a balanced list of potential colleges. Many student-athletes have two lists—one for academics and one for athletics—with some overlap between the two. Keep your college list flexible as your priorities may evolve.

• Speak with Your Current Coaches: If you haven’t already, meet with your current coaches to express interest in playing in college. Seek advice about what it takes to reach your goal. Your coach can help you understand what college coaches in your sport may look for and how to prepare for the recruiting process.

• Contact College Coaches: Begin reaching out to college coaches, expressing your interest, and sharing your achievements. Get on a coach’s radar early and be prepared to share athletic information like a sports resume or highlight videos.

• Visit Schools: Tour the colleges on your list to get a feel for the campus, athletic facilities, and the overall environment.

• Register for Eligibility Centers: Register with NCAA or other eligibility centers to ensure you meet the requirements.

Junior Year

By your junior year, it’s time to start preparing for your application process.

• Test Prep & Standardized Testing: If required, prepare for and begin taking the SAT or ACT. Plan to finish testing by early spring at the latest. This way, you can get your scores to coaches who may request these numbers for evaluation.

• Consistently Communicate with Coaches: Regularly communicate every 6-8 weeks with college coaches. Consistent athletic and academic updates will help coaches track your progress and athletic development, let them get to know you better, and ensure they know your continued interest in their program. 

• Begin Official Visits: Start scheduling official visits to colleges. These visits give you a closer look at the campus, the team, and the overall atmosphere.

• Pre-Reads: Athletic offers are contingent on being admitted by the college, so some colleges have a preliminary evaluation process. College coaches may request academic information, such as transcripts and test scores, to determine whether you meet the initial eligibility and academic requirements for their program.

Senior Year

Athletes still go through the regular college application process. Enter senior year prepared so you can submit applications and make decisions early.

• Use the Summer to Get Ahead: Work on your essays and applications over the summer and plan to submit your applications in early fall. Some coaches may request that you apply Early Decision or give your verbal commitment by a certain date.

• Continue Athletic & Academic Participation: Maintain your athletic performance and focus on academics throughout your senior year. Colleges often want to see consistent dedication and progress. Recruitment offers and offers of admission can be rescinded if you aren’t holding up your end of the agreement to enter college prepared.

A Note for Juniors and Seniors: Even though this timeline starts in freshman year, it's not too late for juniors or seniors to start the process. Every student-athlete is unique, and every school’s recruitment process is different. In some cases, offers may come as late as May or June of the senior years.

The path to college as a student-athlete can be tough but incredibly rewarding. As you navigate this journey, remember that it's not just about sports, but also about personal growth. It's about knowing your "why," planning ahead, and taking initiative. With a clear plan and the right mindset, you can work toward your goal of playing college sports at a college that’s the best fit for you.

WE HELP STUDENT-ATHLETES WITH THEIR RECRUITMENT ROADMAP

How to Write a "Why Us?" Essay

Among the many essays students will write as part of their college application, the "Why Us?" essay is unique. This essay is your opportunity to explain why you are interested in attending a particular institution.

Colleges use this essay to gauge important factors in the admissions review process, like demonstrated interest and overall fit. You should take your time with this essay!

In this post, we’ll go through 5 steps to crafting a compelling "Why Us?" essay that reflects your genuine interest and sets you apart from other applicants.

Step 1: Research the College

Before you start writing, take the time to get to know the school you're applying to inside and out. Thorough research is the key to a successful "Why Us?" essay. It not only helps you understand the institution better but also demonstrates your commitment and genuine interest.

Start by thoroughly researching the college you're applying to. Dive into the school's website, exploring academic departments, programs, and campus resources that align with your interests. Pay attention to mission statements, values, and unique initiatives the college highlights.

Pro Tip: Go more than “one click” deep! If you found information on the very first page you landed on, chances are, everyone else writing their “Why Us?” essay will find it too! Exploring beyond the landing page will give you more to write about and help you learn even more about why a particular college or program is a good fit for you.

Additionally, connect with current students and alumni to gain insights into the student experience. If you can, attend campus tours and information sessions (many colleges offer virtual options too!) to familiarize yourself with the school.

As you do your research, make a list of specific details about the college that resonate with you. This could include:

• Academic majors, minors, or other programs that align with your interests and goals

• Hands-on opportunities like internships, service-learning, or research opportunities

  • Look to see if there are any classes, professors, or research projects you're excited about

• Any campus facilities or resources that would add value to your college experience

• Unique extracurricular activities, clubs, or student organizations

• Core values and other campus culture aspects that you admire

Pro-Tip: Plan to spend at least an hour researching each college. The more time you spend researching, the easier your essay will be to write!

Step 2: Find Overlaps with Your College Fit

Compare what you've learned about the college with what makes up your best college fit. It isn’t enough to simply tell a college about their opportunities—they already know that information. Admissions officers want to understand why those things are important to you and how you hope to contribute to campus.

In your essay, you’ll want to highlight the specific ways in which your goals and aspirations align with what the college has to offer.

Pro Tip: Before you can effectively express why a particular college is the right fit for you, you must understand your own academic and personal preferences. Check out this blog post to learn how to find your best college fit.

Step 3: Write Your Essay

Let your enthusiasm for the college shine through your writing. Show that you're genuinely excited about the prospect of attending and contributing to the community.

Be as specific as possible. One of the most common pitfalls in "Why Us?" essays is generic language. Avoid vague statements like "the campus is beautiful" or "the faculty is top-notch." Instead, be specific and provide evidence to support your claims.

Don’t forget to make it personal to you! Admissions representatives can read thousands of these essays each year. Their goal is not to learn more about the institution where they work—it’s to learn more about the student writing the essay. So share a personal story or anecdote that illustrates your connection with the college.

In addition to explaining what the college can offer you, discuss what you can bring to the table. Highlight your unique qualities, experiences, or skills that can enrich the college community.

Step 4: Avoid Common Mistakes

Let’s review some of the usual pitfalls that we see in a “Why Us?” essay.

Writing a list of facts about the college

Telling your reader what they already know is not a good use of essay space. Avoid focusing solely on facts about the college like prestige or ranking. Instead, emphasize the unique qualities that draw you to the college and explain why.

Describing the Scenery

Many students fall into the trap of writing about things that are adjacent to, but not related to getting an education at a particular college. Things like being located in a big city with lots of potential employers, being situated near the beach or mountains, having a beautiful campus with lots of trees and green space, or even having a great sports team.

While these factors may influence your decision, they’re also true of so many other colleges.

Negative Comparisons to Other Colleges

Don't compare the college to other institutions in your essay, even if you’re explaining how this particular college is better. Keep the focus on what makes this particular college special to you.

Using Clichés and Vague Examples

Steer clear of clichés and overused phrases. Always provide specific examples and details to support your claims. Generic statements lack impact—and are probably overused in this type of essay.

Step 5: Do the College Name Test

After finishing your essay, ask yourself if it would still work if you changed the college name. If it would, your essay isn’t specific enough yet and needs more work.

This is not an essay that you can copy, paste, and name-swap for each college with this prompt. Pay particular attention to make sure your essay doesn’t fail the “College Name Test” for a college in the same city, or worse, a college’s rival institution!

The "Why Us?" essay is your chance to demonstrate your interest in a college and showcase how you can contribute to its community. Remember, this essay is not just about showcasing your passion for a college but also about illustrating why you're a perfect fit. Through research, self-reflection, and your unique perspective, you can write an essay that leaves a lasting impression.

Should I Use ChatGPT to Write My College Essay?

Artificial intelligence is everywhere. There are AI customer service chatbots that can walk you through troubleshooting, AI programs that can produce original art, and, yes, AI programs that can write a college essay.

Right now, the AI chatbot that you are likely most familiar with is ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a language-based chatbot that, through prompting, can create humanlike conversational text. And there’s a lot of conversation, questions, and temptation around using ChatGPT in the college admissions process.

CAN I USE CHATGPT TO WRITE MY COLLEGE ESSAY?

Currently, there are no general restrictions on the Common Application for using ChatGPT. Individual colleges may have their own policies regarding ChatGPT that students need to be aware of. As in all things related to college admission policies, it’s important to know the specific requirements of each college on your list.

SHOULD I USE CHATGPT TO WRITE MY COLLEGE ESSAY?

Okay, so if it’s not explicitly breaking the rules to use ChatGPT to write your college essay, should you consider it? That’s what we’re here to discuss today, with help from today’s “guest contributor,” ChatGPT!

Here’s what ChatGPT had to say about using AI to write the college essay:

ChatGPT: While you can use AI tools to help generate ideas or provide guidance for your college personal statement, it is not advisable to use it as the means of writing the statement.

We know it’s tempting to rely on ChatGPT for essay writing. After all, it’s supposed to make the writing process quicker and easier. But before entrusting this important piece of your college application to algorithms, you should understand the potential pitfalls and limitations. In this blog post, we'll delve into five reasons you should exercise caution when using Chat GPT to write your college personal statement.

LACK OF VOICE & ORIGINALITY

Your college essay is an opportunity to let your unique voice and personality shine through. Admissions committees aren’t just interested in your academic achievements; they want to get to know you as an individual. With ChatGPT, you risk losing the personal touch that sets your essay apart. ChatGPT draws from everything it’s “learned” (sample essays on the internet, articles on essay advice, etc…), and produces what it believes an “average teenager” would write. It isn’t trying to sound like YOU.

We love the college essay because it’s your chance to have your voice heard in the application process. Your transcript and activity list reflect you during your high school years, and your recommendation letters allow others to talk about you. But your essay is YOU talking about you and ensuring your reader learns what you think is most important. Don’t give up that opportunity.

ChatGPT: AI-generated content might be polished, but it often lacks the depth and authenticity that come from your own experiences and reflections. An essay without your voice lacks personality and fails to leave a lasting impression. Admissions committees value authenticity, and relying on AI-generated content can make an essay sound artificial and disconnected from the student's true voice.

POTENTIAL INACCURACIES

ChatGPT isn’t capable of independent thought. It does not judge the quality of what it produces or “fact check” its content for accuracy. It may not always provide accurate or up-to-date facts, and including inaccurate information in your essay can significantly weaken your application.

I’ve constantly run into inaccuracies and inconsistencies when playing around with ChatGPT. Here are a few examples that I ran into while working on this post:

• Made-up family dynamics or experiences in personal statements

• Supplemental “Why this major?” essays including extracurricular activities or accolades a student doesn’t have

• Mentioning classes—and entire majors—that no longer exist for “Why this college?” prompts

ChatGPT: The output of AI models like ChatGPT can vary in quality. It may produce irrelevant or poorly constructed content. Relying solely on AI for writing can result in subpar essays that do not effectively convey the applicant's message.

LIMITED UNDERSTANDING OF WHO YOU ARE

No one knows you better than you. Your college essay writing gives you a chance to tell your story, share your values, and convey your aspirations. ChatGPT has no personal knowledge of your life experiences, emotions, and motivations. It may be able to sound like a human, but it cannot think or feel like one. As a result, ChatGPT can’t understand and express your unique journey. When you write your essay, you have the opportunity to explain your own experiences, thoughts, and feelings in a way that AI simply cannot replicate.

ChatGPT: A personal essay is an opportunity to connect with admissions officers on a deeper level, and using AI can diminish that personal connection. AI also lacks personal knowledge of the student's life, personal experiences, passions, or goals. It cannot accurately capture the depth of an applicant's character or motivations, key elements in a college essay.

ChatGPT Essays Do Not Reflect Your Academic Abilities

As we’ve discussed, ChatGPT’s goal is not to create individualized writing. As a result, your ChatGPT-generated essay may not reflect your academic abilities, and that can sometimes be obvious to admissions readers.

A ChatGPT-generated essay may undersell your abilities. Some students may be capable of more complex reflection and critical thinking than an AI-generated essay can capture. And asking ChatGPT to make the essay sound more “intellectual” usually results in the same surface-level reflection while adding too many 5-syllable words.

Highly creative students may find that ChatGPT does not let their abilities shine. Creative thinking (and writing) is so much more than stuffing your essay with adjectives—a ChatGPT favorite.

For students who may have struggled academically, AI-generated content can create a disconnect between their essays and academic history. This mismatch could raise concerns for admissions committees and lead to questions about the authenticity of the application.

ChatGPT: Your college essay is not just a reflection of your writing skills; it's also an opportunity to showcase your academic abilities. The key takeaway is that your college essay should align your academic record and demonstrate your academic growth, even if you've faced challenges.

A CHATGPT ESSAY IS ONLY AS GOOD AS ITS PROMPTING

ChatGPT doesn’t create something out of nothing. Anyone using it must provide effective prompts. And that can be a challenge.

ChatGPT: Vague or poorly-phrased prompts may lead to responses that do not address your question or needs accurately. This can be frustrating and unproductive. ChatGPT may misinterpret your intent, leading to responses unrelated to your query or requiring additional clarifications. Instead of relying on AI as a crutch, take the initiative to craft your essay from your own perspective.

Good prompting requires time, energy, and effort. You may have to go through several rounds of feeding ChatGPT more and more specific or personal information to get the type of response you would like. If you are already working on brainstorming and reflecting to think of better prompts to give the AI to produce a better essay, that time is better spent writing the essay you want to write in the first place. ChatGPT can’t read your mind—but you can.

While AI tools like ChatGPT can technically generate a college essay in under two minutes, they are not a substitute for your authentic voice and personal insights. Your college essays are a chance to make a compelling case for why you should be admitted, and they reflect your abilities, experiences, and aspirations. So, should you use ChatGPT to write your college essay? Proceed with caution, and always ensure that your essay reflects your authentic self.

ChatGPT: Remember that the most powerful and persuasive essays come from the heart and mind of the applicant.

Don't Make These 6 Mistakes on Your College Application

When you open your college application for the first time, it's normal to feel both excitement and apprehension. Years of homework, report cards, and extracurricular involvement have led to this moment, and it’s time to present yourself to potential colleges. Filling out your college application is a big task. We know you want to do your best work and not make any “careless mistakes” along the way.

Let’s discuss common mistakes made on college applications so they don’t trip you up. After all, you’ve worked too hard to let an error make or break your college application. Here are some of the most common mistakes we see during the application process and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Procrastinating

Don’t wait until the last minute to begin filling out your application!

Procrastinating on your college applications can lead to several problems. If you start an application the day before the deadline (or worse—the day of the deadline!), you may be surprised to find application components like essays, grade reporting, or recommendation requirements that you are not prepared for and don’t have enough time to complete to the best of your abilities.

Many colleges share the same deadline dates, so waiting until the last minute could leave you with more work than you can complete. Rushed responses and overlooked details are common consequences of procrastination.

Fix It:

Set up your application early. Go through each application carefully to understand each college’s requirements and specific deadlines. Make a list of your deadlines so you know when applications are due and how many applications are due the same day. Work ahead and plan to submit each application at least a few days before the deadline.

Mistake #2: Not Doing Your Research

Answering a college’s application questions shouldn’t be your first connecting with them. It’s expected that you’ve done your homework to understand a college’s academic and campus life—especially if the college has a supplemental essay question about why you want to attend their institution or study your chosen major.

If you rely on the application alone, you may also miss important information about that college’s application process. A college’s admissions website can include more information about testing policies (like whether a college will superscore or require official score reports from the testing agency), requirements for specific majors, or opportunities to connect, like interviews.

Fix It:

When building your college list, make sure you fully understand the characteristics that make each college unique. Engage with the college through research, college visits, and social media until you can articulate why each school on your list is a good academic, social, and financial fit for you.

Reference a college’s admissions website as you complete your application. If you have questions about admissions requirements, reach out to your admissions representative so you can approach the application with confidence.

Mistake #3: Only Focusing on Academics

For colleges practicing holistic admissions, academics are only one part of the application review process. Don’t neglect non-academic sections of the application, like your essays or activity descriptions. Who you are and what you do outside of the classroom matter in this process! These are opportunities to highlight information not captured in your transcript or academic history, so don’t waste this opportunity by repeating your academic accolades again and again.

Fix It:

Your application should be a complete picture of you as an individual, and you are more than your grades or academic achievements. Your application, particularly your essays and activities, should highlight what a multi-dimensional human being you are! Your application reader will get to know you better, and your application won’t be repetitive.

Think about this: You have the chance to meet your admissions representative. They have your application file and tell you they know everything about you as a student. Then they ask, “What else do I need to know to fully understand you?”

Find a way to incorporate the answer to your question in your application!

Mistake #4: Not Giving Enough Context

On the flip side, let’s say there’s something in your academic history you wish you didn’t have to include with your application. Maybe you experienced a grade drop, or your test scores aren’t what you hoped for.

Ignoring it and hoping your application reader won’t notice isn’t the right move here.

Fix It:

Take ownership and give context. The Additional Information section of the Common App is there for students to give more information to help their reader understand the application. Perhaps the academic dip you experienced was influenced by illness, a learning difference, a situation at home, or another contributing scenario. Instead of avoiding the situation and hoping it will go away, maturely address it and provide enough context so the person reading your application can see the whole picture.

Mistake #5: Skipping Optional Sections

A lot of different parts make up a college application. Questions, essays, recommendation letters, resumes, interviews, and the list goes on. You might breathe a sigh of relief when you see that a certain part isn’t required. But before you get too relaxed, remember that you only get one chance to submit your application, and you want that application to be your best effort.

Cutting corners may save time, but it won’t benefit your application. Don’t leave anything on the table.

Fix It:

While a few things are truly optional (for example, an essay prompt asking for details about a suspension when that has never happened to you), some things are “optional.” As in “optional but strongly recommended.” As in “optional, but almost every other student applying is answering this essay question about why they want to attend our institution, and if you skip it, we may assume you don’t have an answer.”

If there is an optional opportunity that will add more context to your application, take advantage of it! Write the optional essay, submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, and sign up for the optional interview. We can’t say for certain whether completing an optional section of an application will be the one thing that tips the scales in your favor, but it certainly can’t hurt!

Mistake #6: Not Proofreading

Last but certainly not least… The most common mistake we see on the college application is the failure to proofread each and every application.

Submitting an application with typos can not only give a negative impression to the person reading your application, but it can also lead to much bigger problems. A misspelled email address or mistyped phone number can make it impossible for colleges to reach you if they need to. Accidentally entering 750 instead of 570 for your SAT math score provides false information that could see an acceptance revoked. Pasting the wrong supplemental essay into the incorrect college application could mean telling your dream college all the reasons you want to attend another school.

Fix It:

Luckily, this is an easy mistake to fix! Proofread!

First, take your time filling out your application. Have any necessary information (like grade history or your senior schedule) in front of you, and use proper capitalization.

Then, always review your application before you hit submit! Every time. Make sure you are actually reading it instead of just scrolling through! Pay particular attention to sections that may change from college to college (like supplemental essays or where you input test scores if you are—or aren’t—submitting them).

Bookmark this post to return to after you’ve finished filling out an application. Check that you haven’t fallen prey to any of these common pitfalls along the way. Review your application with these mistakes and their solutions in mind, and submit your best possible application!

What You Can & Can’t Control in College Admissions

As discussed in our previous blog post on Holistic Admissions, there are many complex pieces to consider in the college application process. Each college has its own unique review factors and priorities, making it challenging for students and families to predict exactly what colleges are looking for. The desire to control every aspect of the process can feel overwhelming.

In truth, having that level of control in the admissions process is impossible. While there are certain aspects of the process that students can control, others lie entirely out of their reach. By recognizing and understanding what students can and can’t control, we can reduce some of the stress of application season.

In this blog post, we will dive into the elements of the college application that students have the power to control. Additionally, we will shed light on the factors beyond a student's control. Our aim is to help students focus their energy on the areas where they can truly make a difference and let go of factors beyond their influence.

Factors Students Can Control in the College Admissions Process

The College List

No one tells you where you must apply to college (though parents may have some “strong suggestions”). Students have control over their college list. They can apply to a list of ultra-selective colleges that admit less than 10% of their applicants (please do not do this!), or they can apply to a well-balanced list of schools where they have high, medium, and low chances of admission. Students cannot control their admission decision at each school, but they can apply to a strategic and balanced list of colleges.

Academic Performance

Academic performance during high school is one of the most critical factors in the application review process. Students should challenge themselves by taking rigorous courses, explore subjects that reflect their interests, and work to maintain strong grades.

Standardized Test Scores

While many colleges now have test-optional policies, students can impact their college applications by preparing for the SAT or ACT. Students can test more than once to take advantage of a superscore across test dates. There are also a number of test prep resources (including free resources!) to help students learn content and testing strategies to improve their test scores.

Extracurricular Involvement

The college application highlights four years of extracurricular activity, and this is one area where students have almost complete control. While many students have work or family responsibilities, there is still the opportunity for students to pursue their interests in their free time. Colleges are looking for students who are genuinely interested and committed, regardless of whether it's a sports team, a debate club, volunteering at a local shelter, or participating in a cultural organization. Use your extracurricular involvement to tell a story about who you are and what matters to you.

Essays

The personal statement and supplemental essays are entirely in the student’s power. Crafting compelling and authentic application essays allows students to showcase their unique experiences. Students should take their time when writing their college application essays. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your journey and tell your story the way you want it to be told.

Letters of Recommendation

Recommendations are partly within a student’s control. It’s true that someone else is writing these letters, and students waive their rights to view them as part of the application. But students have control over who they ask to represent them in the admissions process. Building strong relationships with teachers and mentors can lead to impactful letters of recommendation. Request recommendations from individuals who can highlight your skills, character, and potential to contribute positively to a college community.

Factors Students Have No Control Over in the College Admissions Process

Institutional Priorities

Colleges have specific institutional needs and priorities. We like this blog post from Georgia Tech that explains institutional priority, or IP (Georgia Tech calls them the two most important letters in college admissions). Factors such as demographics, geographical distribution, and family connections to a college (just to name a few!) play a role in their admissions decisions. Academic departments may also have specific requirements. Institutional needs are constantly changing and are rarely public knowledge. Don’t spend your time trying to predict what you think a college’s institutional priorities will be.

Competition & Numbers

College admission seems to get more competitive each year, especially at highly-selective colleges. One thing no one can control—not students and not the colleges themselves—is how many students apply each application cycle and who those students are. Application numbers swell due to large things (like a college joining The Common App or enacting a test-optional policy) and small things (like not having any additional essays or even winning an athletic championship… yes, really!). No matter how many students apply, each college only has limited spots. Many colleges could admit a qualified class of incoming students several times over from their applicant pool. With so many strong applicants, colleges often lean on things a student cannot control, like institutional priorities.

Admissions Decisions

Students can put their best foot forward, but at the end of the day, they cannot control the admissions decisions they receive from each school. Trust that you’ve done your best work throughout the application process, and trust that things will work out for you in the end.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL

Be Authentic

Rather than fixating on trying to predict each aspect of the college admissions process, focus on personal growth and authenticity. Pursue your passions and interests, develop intellectual curiosity, and cultivate qualities that will serve you beyond college.

Build A Balanced College List

Decide what criteria make up a strong college fit for you, and build your college list from there. Thoroughly research schools that are a strong academic, social, and financial fit for you. As you build your college list, ensure that you are applying to a balanced list of schools where you have a good chance of admission.

Seek Guidance & Support

Use your resources! Whether it’s your college consultant, your school counselor, your teachers, or other resources you have available, you don’t have to go through this process alone! Seek guidance from those who can give expert advice and support you throughout the admissions process.

As you go through the college planning and application process, it's important to focus on the factors within your control and understand those that are not. Embrace authenticity, emphasize balance, and seek out support to confidently navigate the college admissions process.

Remember, your worth extends far beyond any college admissions decision. This journey is about finding the right fit for your future aspirations and goals.

We support students through the entire process & help them present their best selves in the admission process.

What is Holistic Admissions?

When it comes to college admissions, a phrase that pops up often is “holistic admissions.” In a recent episode of our podcast, College Planning Simplified, one of my colleagues said “holistic” wasn’t in her regular vocabulary before entering the world of college admissions. Now, she uses it nearly every day. But if you aren’t a college consultant, admissions rep, or school counselor, you may not be familiar with the concept of “holistic admissions.” What exactly does it mean? How does it impact a student’s college application?

In this blog post, we'll explore how holistic admissions works, look at the factors considered during the admission review process, and provide tips for how students can maximize their application for colleges that practice holistic admissions.

WHAT IS HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

Holistic admissions is an approach many colleges and universities use to evaluate applicants beyond the numbers (academic achievements and test scores). Instead of reviewing applications solely focusing on GPA and an SAT or ACT score, holistic admissions takes a comprehensive look at the applicant's overall self. Their holistic self. Using holistic admissions, a college can consider various factors that demonstrate a student’s potential for success at their institution.

WHAT DO COLLEGES REVIEW IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

In holistic admissions, colleges assess applications based on a range of factors, including:

• Academics: While holistic admissions considers more than grades, a student’s academic performance still remains an essential factor in their application. Admissions offices will review the rigor of the applicant's high school curriculum, class rank (if reported), and trends in grades over time. Holistic admissions doesn’t give students an excuse to take it easy in the classroom.

• Extracurricular Involvement: Colleges value students who will positively contribute to their college community and the greater community. One way to gauge a student’s out-of-the-classroom potential in colleges is to see how that student spends their free time in high school. Extracurricular involvement is an opportunity for students to show colleges who they are, what matters to them, and how they choose to spend their time. 

• Essays: Holistic admissions places significant weight on the applicant's essays. The personal statement and college-specific supplemental essays allow students to share their unique stories and provide context to the rest of their applications. Essays let admissions offices understand the applicant's character, motivations, and perspectives.

• Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other important mentors in a student’s life provide valuable insight into that student’s character, work ethic, and potential for success in college. These letters lend external support to a student’s application.

• Standardized Test Scores: Depending on a college’s testing policy, SAT or ACT scores may still be a factor in the admissions process, but they are not the sole determining factor. Holistic admissions recognizes that the numbers don’t always tell the whole story, so test scores are viewed in context with the rest of the application.

• Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges may use the amount of interest a student has shown in their institution as a factor for consideration in the admissions process. When evaluating an application, they may emphasize a college-specific supplemental essay (like a “Why Us?” essay) or note if the student applying has visited their campus or engaged in other meaningful ways.

• Other Factors: Depending on a college’s goals, policies, and priorities, other review factors may be used in holistic admissions. For example, some public universities may consider a student’s residency. Some religious institutions may ask about a student’s religious beliefs. Other colleges may consider whether a student has family members who attended that university. Other factors that complete the “full picture” of who a student is can vary by institution, so understanding their admission factors is key.

Holistic admissions also allows admissions offices to see how a student’s college application was shaped by their experiences. Knowing what special circumstances a student has faced or challenges they’ve overcome means they can be viewed as a whole person. It may provide valuable context to other parts of their application.

IS EVERYTHING WEIGHTED THE SAME IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

This is a common question that comes up when we talk with students and families about holistic admissions. Often, the underlying question is something like, “Do my grades matter less in holistic admissions?” or “If my grades aren’t as strong, can something else (like extracurriculars) make up for it?”

Short answer: Not really.

Slightly longer answer: The way that colleges practice holistic admissions can vary. Each institution has the ability to decide which review factors they weigh more heavily than others; the different review factors do not “count” equally. 

While non-academic factors matter in holistic admissions—and sometimes, they can matter a lot—academic factors like the rigor of curriculum and final grades are almost always top priority.

Again, holistic admissions means the whole student and the sum of their experiences are taken into consideration. If a student’s academic history has contributing factors, the student should make sure that context is given in the application. But it is up to each college to decide how they will evaluate the information provided.

So how do you determine which review factors are weighted more heavily than others? The college may tell you outright in an information session or on their admissions website. But if you aren’t sure, you can look up the college’s Common Data Set (Google “college name” + “Common Data Set”). A chart in section C7 shows a college’s review factors and the level of importance of each.

HOW DO I INCREASE MY CHANCES IN HOLISTIC ADMISSIONS?

Here are some tips to maximize your chances of admission to a college that practices holistic admissions:

• Maintain a strong academic performance during high school. Students should challenge themselves with rigorous coursework, dedicate time to study, seek help when needed, and show a genuine interest in learning.

• Engage in extracurricular activities that align with interests and values. Look for opportunities to demonstrate commitment, impact, leadership, and growth. Think “quality over quantity” with extracurricular involvement.

• Write essays that tell your unique story. Use your writing to authentically showcase your perspectives, values, experiences, and personal growth. Make sure to thoughtfully answer shorter supplemental essays, especially if the question asks about your college fit or your chosen major.

• Build meaningful relationships with teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can write compelling letters of recommendation. Engage in class and activities, and let the adults in your life get to know you, your interests, and your goals. When requesting recommendations, consider which writers will add new perspective to your application or can support pieces of your story you wish to emphasize.

• Demonstrate a genuine interest in the colleges you want to attend. Experience campus either in-person or virtually. Reach out to your admissions counselor with any questions you may have during the application process. And if there is a supplemental essay question that allows you to demonstrate how and why you are a strong fit for the college, be sure to thoughtfully convey how the college’s specific programs, values, or opportunities align with your aspirations.

Need help navigating the holistic admissions process?

3 Steps to Finding Your Best College Fit

When it comes to building balanced college lists, one thing drives our process: fit.

College fit is how well an institution meets a student’s unique wants and needs for their best college experience. It’s entirely student-driven and entirely individual. If I’m working with a student on their college fit, we aren’t talking about what their older sibling, their friends, or even their parents wanted in a college experience. It’s all about that student. Their unique wants and needs.

We’re big believers in college fit for many reasons, but a few of them are:

• Fit gives you a place to begin the college search - There are thousands of colleges out there, and searching can get overwhelming if you don’t know where to start! College fit gives students criteria to look for when learning about different colleges. In that way, fit can help guide college research beyond the admissions website.

• Choosing a good fit saves time, money, and resources - Too often, students have a primary reason for choosing a college and haven’t fully considered its other factors. It could be an academic major, a sport (that they will be playing or enthusiastically supporting), name recognition, location, or some other reason. But when they get to campus, something changes. A student may want to change their major (most do!) or no longer wish to continue playing a sport. If the college is not a good fit for other reasons, they may need to consider transferring, which can add additional semesters or years, additional tuition, and so on.

• A better college fit leads to happier students - And happier students are more engaged on campus! They’re taking advantage of opportunities, pursuing experience, and having a fulfilling 4 years.

So how do you find this elusive “best college fit?” This blog post will walk you through 3 factors—Academic, Financial, and Social—to find your best college fit.

But first, a disclaimer: the three areas of fit will not be of equal importance to all students and families. And that’s perfectly normal! One student may know that the cost of college is a key factor in their search process, so financial fit may outweigh social or academic fit in this process. Another student may be interested in pursuing a major not commonly available at many colleges or need support from their college with a learning difference, so academic fit may matter more. To give you an experience from my own college search: back in the day, I attended what was then the largest high school in North Carolina. From that experience, I knew I wanted a small college, so social fit was a significant factor for me.

No part of college fit is more important or valuable than another, but just to drive that home, we’ll tackle each piece alphabetically!

Step 1: Assess Academic Fit

When considering academic fit, start by asking yourself how your academic profile matches the average freshman at this school. Is the school an academic fit for you right now?

But don’t stop there! Will the school still be an academic fit for you after you enroll? Do they teach the way you learn best?

Here are some things to consider when you assess your ideal academic fit:

• What is your ideal class size?

• How much access to your professors do you want/need?

• What level of career and/or academic advising would you like?

• What major(s) and/or minor(s) are you considering?

• Would you like to have academic support or tutoring available?

• What’s your ideal class style: lecture, discussion, hands-on?

• Are you motivated by a competitive academic environment?

• Do you want to pursue research, an internship, or study abroad in your major?

Before you start looking into what colleges offer in relation to these kinds of questions, determine what your unique answers are. Then, when you do your college research, you can assess if a college is a good academic fit.

Step 2: Find Financial Fit

While college fit is specific to a student’s wants and needs, financial fit is often a family conversation. For many, college is a family investment. Money can be a tricky topic to discuss in some families, and often, there can be a lack of communication about financial fit between students and parents.

These conversations look different from family to family, but I encourage parents and students to talk about how your family plans to pay for college at the beginning of the college planning process and not at the end so that everyone has realistic expectations about how financial fit should play into college fit and, ultimately, into the student’s college choice.

Here are some key factors to think about as part of financial fit:

• What is your family’s budget for one year of college?

• Will your family qualify for any need-based financial aid?

• Are you, or your parents, willing to take out loans to pay for college?

• Do you think you might qualify for any merit-based financial aid at certain institutions?

• Have you considered what else beyond tuition will cost money (for example: room and board, transportation if the college is far from home, books, club dues, etc.)?

Financial fit can really influence a college list because the cost of college can vary so much from school to school. It can determine if a student keeps their college search closer to home to benefit from in-state tuition at public colleges or how balanced that final college list is. A student hoping to receive a lot of academic merit aid offers should be aiming for more Likely schools.

Here are a few more resources as you find your financial fit:

• Scholarships 101: The Scoop on Outside Scholarships

• Scholarships 101: How Can I Get More Merit Aid From Colleges?

• Scholarships 101: Measuring a College’s Financial Generosity

• FAFSA Tips & Tricks

Step 3: Specify Social Fit

We invited family to the table for Step 2, but Step 3 is back to a student’s unique wants and needs.

Many students identify this step as “the fun part” because we talk about football and weekend life. And while yes, these will be some of the most social years of a student’s life, and we do want students to have fun, social fit is important because so much of the growth students experience in college takes place out of the classroom. College is more than waking up, absorbing knowledge like a sponge, and going to sleep. That’s where social fit comes in!

As you consider social fit, ask:

• What does your “dream college” environment look like?

• Do you prefer a smaller college with a close-knit community or a larger college where you can constantly make new friends?

• How important is the college athletic scene?

• Do you want to attend a faith-based college?

• Is campus diversity important to you?

• Do you want many campus clubs or activities to join, or do you see yourself pursuing other social outlets?

• Are you interested in fraternities or sororities?

• Is the campus environment: Creative? Outdoorsy? Full of school spirit? Political? Social justice-minded? Regional? International?

The complete “college experience” happens in classrooms, dorms, the dining hall, the student center, the football stadium, and beyond. Consider the environment where you want to spend an exciting four years and the types of people you want to be around!

Next Steps

As you go through academic, financial, and social fit, make a running list of the things that are important to you. Once you have a list of your unique college fit criteria, decide which factors are your “must-haves” versus things that would be nice to have in a college but are negotiable.

(A quick tip: if you have too many must-haves, you might end up looking for a college that doesn’t actually exist!)

At the same time, make a note of anything on your “no way” list—criteria your ideal college would not have.

Keep these lists of college criteria—must-haves, would be nice to have, and no way—by your side on college visits and when doing college research. Before you add a college to your college list, compare it to your fit list and ask yourself, “How well does this college fit me?”

6 Things To Do After Applying To College

So much time and effort go into submitting a college application. It can feel like a celebration and a relief to finally hit “submit” and relax until admission decisions start coming in. But don’t get too comfortable! Even after submitting a college application, there are still a few more steps for students to complete.

Here are 6 things to do after applying to college:

set up your application portal

Colleges will contact students after they apply with instructions to activate a portal with their school. This portal is a student’s online account and the main place where they and the college will interact moving forward. Students can find important information in the portal, such as:

• A checklist showing a student’s application completion status and that the different pieces of the application (e.g., test scores, recommendations, transcript) have arrived at the college

• Any additional steps required to complete an application, like self-reporting grades or test scores

• Optional applications like honors program applications or scholarship applications (note: depending on the college, these may be located outside of the portal)

• Admissions decisions may also appear in the portal

Activate a portal soon after applying to that college to ensure your application is complete, and check it periodically to make sure everything looks the way it should.

CHECK YOUR EMAIL

It’s important to stay on top of your email inbox after submitting college applications. Email is often the first place colleges will reach out to students if something is missing in an application or to make important announcements. Students should open every email from colleges to which they’ve applied so they are not missing any crucial information.

Don’t forget that many colleges also track their email open rates as a part of demonstrated interest. Consistently reading your emails after submitting your application shows that you are still actively engaging with that college.

We know your inbox is probably flooded with college emails by now, so it is okay to start unsubscribing from any colleges you know you won’t be applying to at this point. That way, the emails from the colleges on your list won’t get lost in the mix.

SEND PERIODIC UPDATES (IF NECESSARY)

A lot can happen between when a student applies (sometimes in early fall) and when admissions results are released (sometimes as late as April). If you have new information that you would like your colleges to know about, consider sending periodic updates. You might include:

• Updated grades at the end of first quarter, trimester, or semester

• New leadership positions, awards, or accomplishments not previously shared in your application

• Any updates that you might have included in the Additional Information section of an application

It’s essential to follow the procedure laid out by each college. If they request that all updates go through the application portal, do not email your admissions counselor instead. Instead of making you look like you went the extra mile, it only makes you look like you can’t follow directions. It’s also important that you only share new information in these updates. It’s up to each college whether they will update your application to include the new information.

apply for financial aid & scholarships

If your family plans to apply for financial aid, file the FAFSA and/or the CSS Profile by each college’s financial aid deadline. Some colleges also have additional scholarship applications that students can access once they have submitted their general college applications.

Students considering outside scholarships can also use the time after they’ve submitted college applications to work on other scholarship applications.

MAINTAIN GOOD GRADES

Whatever you do, don’t let Senioritis kick in now that college applications have been submitted! This is not the time to coast to graduation! Stay focused in school and keep earning strong grades in your classes. Here’s why maintaining good grades even after submitting an application is a good idea:

• Some colleges may request midyear grades, or if your early application is deferred, you may have to send your midyear grade report

• Strong grades give you an update to send to colleges (see: Send Periodic Updates)

• If your grades drop too much, a college can revoke their offer of admission

Students should also try to maintain the original senior year schedule they submitted with their application. Sorry, but that means you can’t drop AP Calculus for an early release period now that you’ve gotten into your dream college! Some schedule changes may be inevitable at your school, but you need to notify each college on your list about the change (and the reason for it).

BE PATIENT

This is maybe the most difficult item on this list. I call the period of time between submitting an application and receiving a decision “The Long Wait.” It can seem like an eternity! Sometimes, students start to second guess themselves, their strengths, and all their hard work during this time. Try not to let The Long Wait get to you. Control what you can control (working hard in class, sending appropriate updates), acknowledge that a lot of the admissions process is out of your control, and trust that you’ve done your best and that it—and you—are enough.

What Is Demonstrated Interest In College Admissions?

Applying to a good-fit college is an exercise in relationship building.

First, you’re introduced to the college. Maybe you’d heard of it beforehand, but because you read this blog, you know better than to make a college decision solely on reputation! You get to know the college pretty well over time through your own research. You make up your mind that this is definitely a good fit for you, and you submit your application. “I’ve decided I like you. Please pick me.”

But wait—that’s not really how relationships work, is it? Relationship building goes both ways, and the scenario I described above is pretty one-sided. You’re getting to know the college, but how and when are they getting to know you? How are they supposed to know you’re interested in taking this relationship to the next level?

You might argue that the college admissions office gets to know you and your interest through your application. But admissions counselors assume that students are applying to more than one college—how are they to know that they are the one? And colleges receive thousands of applications each cycle—admissions counselors can’t always see the difference between one application that’s a token of undying love and another that was submitted because the college has no extra essays and a great football team.

This is where demonstrated interest comes in.

WHAT IS DEMONSTRATED INTEREST?

Demonstrated interest is what it sounds like: a student demonstrating an interest in the college of their choice. Consistently, meaningfully, and throughout the admissions process. Essentially, demonstrated interest is any time a student has connected with a college in some meaningful way to show that they want to attend.

A few years ago, I wrote about demonstrating interest during the Covid-19 pandemic when campus visits halted. Today, we’ll look at some other forms of demonstrated interest and how they can be used in the admissions process.

DO ALL COLLEGES TRACK DEMONSTRATED INTEREST?

No, not all colleges will use demonstrated interest as a consideration factor in the admissions process. And even if they do, it will not be the most important factor in a student’s application. No amount of demonstrated interest will outweigh a weak transcript.

You can see if a college considers demonstrated interest—and see how much of a role it plays in their admissions process—by looking at a college’s Common Data Set (Google the college name + Common Data Set). Section C7 is a chart that shows the college’s admissions factors. Pretty useful, huh?

Pro Tip: If a college does not use demonstrated interest for admissions purposes, that is not an excuse to forgo this part of the process! Many ways that students demonstrate interest are also the most valuable ways that students can meaningfully earn about a college. By being intentional about demonstrating interest, you’re also helping yourself determine if a college is a good fit for you!

HOW IS DEMONSTRATED INTEREST USED IN THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS?

A college that uses demonstrated interest in their admissions process might look at the meaningful interactions they’ve had with a student when determining how likely that student is to attend their school. Admissions counselors know that students can only enroll at one college, and they want it to be theirs!

To have a high yield rate (or the percentage of students who enroll at a university after being offered admission), they may look for indicators, like demonstrated interest, that an offer of admission would result in a new student at their university.

HOW CAN I SHOW DEMONSTRATED INTEREST?

Let’s look at different ways students can demonstrate their interest during the college admissions process.

Campus Visits & Information Sessions

An official campus visit is a great way to show demonstrated interest. Physically going to where a college is located and spending time on campus not only indicates a certain level of interest but is also an excellent way for students to know whether a college is a good fit for them. Everybody benefits!

But we recognize that official tours may not be accessible to everyone. Travel may not be possible if you are looking at colleges far from home. And many of these tour times are during the school day. Tour schedules around popular school breaks, like Fall Break and Spring Break, fill up quickly, and you may not be willing or able to miss school for a college visit. So here are several ways to think about demonstrating interest through a campus visit or information session:

• Official Campus Tours or Information Sessions - Check out our blog post on advice for successful tours here.

• Virtual Information Sessions - Many colleges have these listed on the same webpage where you sign up for official on-campus visits. Often, the timing is more convenient for students. These can sometimes include a virtual tour component or may be offered by academic area.

• Open Houses or Preview Days - Keep an eye out for these dates in the spring and fall. They are day-long events, usually occurring on the weekend. They’re a great way to dive deeper into a school you’re interested in and get a glimpse of life on that campus!

• Self-Guided Tours - Sometimes, a self-guided tour is the best you can do. But it’s not demonstrating interest unless the college knows you’re there. See if there’s a way to register your attendance on the admissions webpage. If not, reach out to your admissions counselor before you come to campus. They might be able to meet with you, arrange for you to speak with a professor in your academic area, or give you some recommendations on what to see based on your interest.

College Fairs & High School Visits

While students can go to a college and meet with admissions counselors there, admissions counselors also travel! College representatives take the show on the road for college fairs (where students can get to know lots of colleges in one event—like college speed dating) or high school visits (where an admissions counselor visits a high school during the school day to meet students and provide information about their college).

Both are great opportunities for students to learn more about a college, have their specific questions answered, and maybe even introduce themselves to the person who could be reading their application. I recommend students attend these events and introduce themselves to the college representatives present. And afterward, follow up with a thank you email. Not only is it polite to thank someone for their time, but that also gives that student a contact moving forward for any questions they may have about the college or the application process. It’s easier to ask your questions if you know where to turn!

Communicate With Your Admissions Counselor

Even if you haven’t met your admissions counselor face-to-face during a high school visit or a college fair, there are other ways to communicate with them. Admissions offices often make it easy to search their website and find the person assigned to a particular state, region, or high school. If not, students can contact the general admissions email, and their questions will be forwarded to the correct person.

Admissions counselors are there to support students and to recruit students to their college. They have so much great information for students trying to decide if a particular school is right for them, and if they don’t have an answer to your question, they can almost certainly point you to someone who can. So don’t hesitate to reach out with thoughtful, meaningful questions about the college or if you need help along the way.

After applying, students can also reach out with any new updates or changes (like new grades, awards, or leadership positions) as long as they follow the college’s procedures.

Don’t forget that, even though they read and evaluate college applications, admissions counselors are people too… and they really like students!

Write Thoughtful Essays

Many supplemental essay prompts give students a chance to show demonstrated interest. Any time a question refers back to the college, this is an opportunity. Look for questions like:

• Why do you want to attend this college?

• Why are you interested in this major specifically at this college?

• How do you see yourself contributing to our college community?

• How will you contribute to building a diverse community at our college?

• How will you go beyond your comfort zone at our college?

If a college asks a question like this, or something similar, a little alarm bell should go off in a student’s mind to let them know research is needed. This supplemental essay is another chance for the admissions reader to learn about the student—but part of what the student should want to express is that they’ve done their homework. That they know this college well and can show why it’s such a strong mutual fit. These types of essays should be thoughtful, specific, and definitely not rushed.

Is It Optional? Do It Anyway!

There are some parts of the application process that are optional. Some of these things have nothing to do with demonstrated interest and are truly optional. For example, if a college is test optional, demonstrated interest shouldn’t be a consideration when deciding whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores.

On the other hand, there are some optional application steps to go the extra mile and show your strong interest. These include:

• Early Deadlines: Only apply Early Decision if that deadline is right for you and your family, but consider applying Early Action. If a college has a Rolling deadline, apply sooner rather than later to indicate your strong interest!

• Optional Essays: Sometimes, supplemental essays are not required. You should probably write it as long as the prompt isn’t directed at something you haven’t experienced (for example, there may be some optional prompts about disciplinary or criminal history, missing school, or academic obstacles). You should definitely write it if it’s a demonstrated interest prompt like I mentioned above!

• Interviews: Some colleges offer optional interviews, usually with alumni. They usually can’t offer interviews to everyone who applies, and it’s not a bad sign if you aren’t able to interview. Check on the college’s admissions website to learn about their interview process—some colleges will reach out after applications are submitted, others have a specific interview deadline, while others let students sign up as early as the summer before senior year. Interviews usually don’t make a big difference in the admissions process, but we still recommend them! If you can interview, I encourage you to spend 30 minutes on Zoom chatting with a graduate about your interest in a college and their experience as a student. You’ll learn a lot, and colleges will see that you’ve taken this extra step.

Stay Connected

Current high school students are digital natives. Capitalize on that! Follow colleges on social media. Individual colleges have tons of different social media accounts these days. Everything from admissions and athletics to academic departments and student clubs will have their own accounts. Find what interests you and follow them!

Do the admissions offices cross-reference their list of followers with the applications they get? Well, probably not. But by following the accounts that interest you, you’ll get a glimpse behind the curtain at campus life. You’ll learn things you wouldn’t just by looking at the campus website or in an afternoon visit. You’ll learn if this is the college for you, and just think of the interesting details you’ll be able to include in your supplemental essays and interviews!

The one (kind of weird) thing admissions offices do sometimes see is who is opening their emails, as well the interactions with those emails (Are the emails staying open long enough for someone to read them? Is the recipient clicking on clinks?). Now, students should be opening all emails from the colleges on their list anyway because they don’t want to miss important information or updates. Will opening your email move the needle? Probably not in most cases, but this is something that the college might track.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Like relationship building, demonstrated interest isn’t a box you check. It’s not a one-time occurrence. Consistency is key. Students can begin their initial engagement (like college visits or staying digitally connected) before their senior year and should keep engaging even after submitting applications. If admissions offices see a lot of engagement in early fall of senior year, but then it drops off later on (especially after other admissions decisions come in), they may think that the student has given their heart to another college.

Demonstrated interest is a real part of holistic admissions at many colleges. Please don’t ignore it and miss out on opportunities, but at the same time, don’t overemphasize its importance. Don’t make demonstrating interest a part-time job. If a student is taking the time to thoroughly get to know a college with an emphasis on good college fit, meaningful demonstrated interest usually follows.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Here are two short videos all about demonstrated interest!

• 3 Ways to Authentically Demonstrate Interest

• 3 Ways Students Demonstrated DIS-Interest

FAFSA Tips & Tricks

There are many steps to completing a college application: writing essays, filling out application questions, creating the activity list, asking for letters of recommendation, setting up an application portal after submitting… and we haven’t even gotten to financial aid!

The financial aid application season runs at the same time as the college application season, beginning on October 1st of each year with the opening of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). While students are keeping up with their college applications, there are also a lot of steps for students and parents to follow to complete the financial aid process.

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions to help simplify the FAFSA process:

WHAT DO I NEED TO FILL OUT THE FAFSA?

Get organized before you file your financial aid documents. Here’s a list of the items parents and students will need to successfully fill out the FAFSA:

• Your FSA ID - An FSA ID is a username and password that allows students and parents to sign the FAFSA electronically. Both the student and the parent filling out the FAFSA must create an FSA ID, and you will need these before completing the FAFSA. You can create an FSA ID before the FAFSA opens in October. You will use the same FSA ID every year the student files the FAFSA, so make sure to keep up with it!

• Your SSN - If you are not a US Citizen, but meet certain eligibility requirements for federal financial aid, you will need your Alien Registration Number.

• Your Federal Income Tax Return - Parents and students (if the student filed federal income taxes) will use tax information from two years prior to the fall the student plans to enroll in college. For example, if a student plans to begin college in Fall 2023, their family will use tax information from their 2021 tax return.

• Records of any untaxed income - For example, child support, interest income, or veterans’ non-education benefits.

• Records of your assets - For example, savings and checking account balances, records of investments, stocks, bonds, and real estate (excluding your primary residence).

• List of schools you are applying to - You should go ahead and send the FAFSA to colleges even if you haven’t been accepted (or even applied) yet. You can always remove a school if you decide not to apply, but you could miss out on financial aid opportunities if you wait too late to add a school.

WHEN IS THE FAFSA DEADLINE?

Just like colleges set their own application deadlines—and one college can have multiple application deadlines—financial aid deadlines can also vary by college. Check with each school’s financial aid office to see their FAFSA deadline. Keep an eye out for any early “priority” deadlines or FAFSA deadlines associated with different application types like Early Decision or Early Action. Some deadlines can be as early as November 1st!

Make a list of all the financial aid deadlines and determine which college has the earliest. Aim to file the FAFSA and submit it to all colleges on your list by that date. Or, better yet, try to file your FAFSA by Halloween to get it out of the way!

WHAT IF I AM APPLYING TO MORE THAN 10 COLLEGES?

You can only list up to 10 schools at a time on the FAFSA, but there is a workaround for students with longer college lists. Within a few days of filing the FAFSA, you will receive an emailed copy of your Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR is also sent to the colleges listed on the FAFSA.

To send the SAR to additional schools, log back into your FAFSA and select “Add/Update Schools.” Remove schools from your list—don’t worry, they’ve already received your SAR—and add new schools. Submit the corrections, and the new schools will then receive your SAR. Just remember that if you had to make any corrections to your actual FAFSA that you add back the schools you deleted so they get the updated version as well!

WHAT IS VERIFICATION?

About one-third of FAFSA applicants are chosen for verification to determine the accuracy of what’s reported in their FAFSA. Don’t assume you’ve done anything incorrectly! You will be notified in your SAR about verification and contacted by the individual colleges to provide documentation like items from the list above. Be sure to follow instructions by the college’s deadline!

WHAT IS THE CSS PROFILE?

The CSS Profile is an additional financial aid application that is different from the FAFSA. It is required by more than 200 colleges and is used for institutional aid rather than federal aid. Some colleges will require both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile to be considered for financial aid. You complete the CSS Profile through College Board (yes, the SAT and AP people). There is no limit to the number of colleges you can list on the CSS Profile, but there is a small fee for each college (the irony of paying to submit an application for financial aid is not lost on us).

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL CHANGES?

If your financial situation has decreased since the 2021 tax year, you will still use your 2021 income tax returns when filing the FAFSA. Then, contact the colleges where you have sent the SAR to explain and document your change in income. The college may have a process in place, like an additional form for you to fill out. Officials in the financial aid offices can assess your situation and may adjust your FAFSA form or financial aid award.

If your situation changes after you file the FAFSA, you cannot update the FAFSA itself with new information. Similar to above, contact the colleges on your list to explain your family’s situation and follow any steps to request an adjustment to your FAFSA.

Don’t let the FAFSA process intimidate you! Check out our other free resources to simplify financial aid:

• Regular webinars on the 10 Keys to College Affordability

• The Inside Scoop Blog - All Financial Aid Posts

• College Planning Simplified Podcast

  • Episode - Financial Aid & Affordability with Jeff Levy

5 Tips For Successful College Visits

With so many different ways to engage—from official in-person tours to virtual visits to walking around campus with a friend—we get a lot of questions about the “right” way for families to get to know a potential college. What “counts” and what doesn’t? And how can parents help (or hurt) the college visit process?

Today, we have a blog post for the whole family—students and parents—because college visits are usually a family experience! Here are 5 tips to make the most of your college visit experience!

SCHEDULE THROUGH THE COLLEGE WEBSITE

Schedule your visit to campus through the college’s website whenever possible. This way, the college has a record of your visit (which is extra helpful if they track demonstrated interest). We recommend official visits where possible, but these can fill up fast! Especially during popular times of the year like school breaks.

If your family is unable to schedule an official tour, you might consider a self-guided tour. Many colleges offer self-guided tour maps on their website, you might walk through campus as a family on your own, or you might have a connection at that college who can show you around.

If you are doing a self-guided tour, see if there is a way to sign up for one through the college’s website. If this isn’t an option, consider reaching out to your admissions counselor to let them know you will be on campus, tell them a little bit about yourself and your interest in their school, and ask any questions you might have ahead of your visit.

Pro Tip: If you are doing a self-guided tour, I recommend doing a virtual information session if one is available before you visit (you schedule these through the college's admissions page) so you can learn about the college and get the information you would have gotten on an official tour.

BUILD A BALANCED TOUR LIST

Just like your student should build a balanced college list, I encourage your family to visit schools that have a wide range of qualities like: selectivity, size, location, etc... That way, you’ll see a lot of options and learn both what you like and what you don't. Maybe you’ll learn that urban schools are a perfect fit after visiting college outside of a city! Maybe you’ll learn that the large schools that sounded great on paper are actually too large once you have smaller schools to compare them to.

Seeing a wide range can help students figure out their best fit. Remember—it's still a successful college tour even if you didn't like the campus you visited because you’ve learned something valuable for the next one!

And please include likely and target schools in your tour route! So often, families will only visit the most selective schools on a student’s college list and leave out others. Not only does this keep students from getting to know great schools, but it can also send the message that only certain colleges are prioritized, desirable, or acceptable.

PACE YOURSELVES!

It's tempting to try and cram as many college visits in as you can. Especially if you’re taking time off of school and work to fit in a college tour or if you’re visiting an area with a lot of colleges. But think quality over quantity with college visits!

Try not to visit more than 2 campuses in a single day. This will let you prioritize official visits where possible as many colleges only offer 1 or 2 official visit time slots per day.

And any more than that, and they're all going to start blurring together (“Wait, did that college say they had a 3-story rock climbing wall or a 3-story dining hall? And did that other college say they had small class sizes or a small chance my professor will learn my name because class sizes are large?”).

LET YOUR STUDENT LEAD

If college visits are a test drive, then students are in the driver's seat!

Parents, sit back and enjoy the scenery!

I encourage you to have family discussions about each college you visit, but let your student react, respond, and share their thoughts first. Respect your student's opinions and try to stay neutral even if you really want your student to feel the same way you do about a particular school!

MAKE VIRTUAL TOURS A FAMILY EXPERIENCE

You make campus visits as a family, so if virtual tours and information sessions are your only option because of distance, availability, or accessibility, treat these like as much like an in-person visit as you can.

Pop some popcorn, and watch the information session and virtual tour together. Ask the same questions and have the same conversations about likes and dislikes that you might have if you were visiting in person. And follow the advice in tips 1-4!