college comparisons, college search

Smallest colleges in the US by enrollment and acreage

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 13, 2026

Key takeaways Webb Institute in New York has the smallest student body in the US (of 4-year institutions) with 106 students enrolled. Flagler College sits on a 19-acre campus in Florida, one of the smallest campuses in the country. You might want to attend a small college if you enjoy more intimate class sizes and …

college admissions

When do waitlist decisions come out?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 12, 2026

Key takeaways: Most waitlisted students hear back from colleges after May 1 and before the end of June, but you might not receive a decision until August. Admissions departments often post decisions to student online portals or notify them by email, but some call instead. You could potentially improve your chances of an acceptance letter …

scholarships

What is scholarship displacement? How to appeal to your aid office

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 25, 2026

Key takeaways: Scholarship displacement happens when colleges reduce a student’s financial aid package upon the student winning outside scholarships. While schools argue that it opens the money for other students with demonstrated need, some states have banned the practice. You can appeal scholarship displacement with your financial aid office to explain how the extra funds …

college admissions

What is a college yield rate?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways: A college yield rate is the percentage of accepted students who enrolled at the school. A school with a higher yield rate is often seen as more desirable, but institutions with lower rates can still offer outstanding programs. Colleges use the data to inform their acceptance rates, incoming class sizes, and available application …

financial advice & planning, financial aid

What is a college tuition bill?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways: College tuition bills are statements that itemize school charges, such as tuition, mandatory fees, housing, meal plans, and health insurances. Always read over your tuition bill to check for accuracy, reaching out to the financial aid office if you have any questions. You can typically view and pay your bill through the online …

questions & answers

How many colleges are in the U.S.?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on May 12, 2026

Key takeaways: There are 5,626 postsecondary Title IV institutions in the United States as of 2024-25, according to the NCES IPEDS. 2,609 institutions award a bachelor’s degree or higher to their students. California has the most postsecondary Title IV institutions of any state, at 613. Thinking about pursuing higher education? Lucky for you, you have …

college admissions

Focused learning: a complete guide to specialized schools

By Hilary CairnsPublished on April 29, 2026

Key takeaways Specialized schools offer certificate and degree programs in a single major or area of study. Common types of specialized institutions include Art, Business, and Career Studies schools. Students can benefit from strong networks, experienced professors, and advanced resources, but changing your major may be difficult. Specialized schools tend to stick to one focused …

careers & internships, majors & industries

2-Year Medical degrees in healthcare that pay well

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 4, 2026

Key takeaways: Medical Radiologic Technology/Science has one of the highest median salaries of all 2-year medical degree programs in healthcare at $101,900 Other top paying jobs that only require an associate’s degree include Dental Hygienist, MRI Technician, and Occupational Therapist Assistant. You’ll often have to complete a clinical rotation, pass a state exam, and receive …

college applications

When should you start applying for colleges​?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on March 27, 2026

Key takeaways: College bound high school students should start applying for colleges shortly after applications open on August 1 of their senior year. Most early decision and early action applications are due on November 1 or 15. Many colleges accept regular decision submissions until January 1. Colleges usually open applications on August 1. While most …