questions & answers

What are Ivy Plus (Ivy +) schools?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 21, 2025

Key Takeaways: Ivy Plus schools provide quality education programs and experiences that match or even surpass Ivy League offerings. Caltech, MIT, and Stanford University are often considered Ivy Plus institutions, but there is no official list. Students interested in applying to these schools need top grades, high SAT/ACT scores, and community involvement. Ivy Plus schools …

questions & answers

What are the Southern Ivies?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 21, 2025

Key takeaways: A Southern Ivy is a college in the Southern United States that provides top-rated academic programs to its students. They may also have outstanding research, study abroad, or unique job opportunities. Some institutions often called Southern Ivies include Rice University, Duke University, and Davidson College. Southern Ivies is a loose definition for select …

college comparisons

Colleges with the Highest Acceptance Rates

By Hilary CairnsPublished on October 10, 2025

Key Takeaways: The University of Maine had the highest acceptance rate during the 2025 admissions cycle – 96.80%. Community colleges and online schools also tend to accept most of their applicants. You should apply to schools with high acceptance rates if they’re the right fit for you. As students prepare their college applications, they’re often …

college applications

A guide to using the Common Black College App

By Hilary CairnsPublished on October 7, 2025

Key Takeaways: The Common Black College App allows students to apply to several Historically Black Colleges and Universities at the same time. It costs $20 to apply to all participating institutions. Similar to the Common App, the CBCA saves students time and money. The Common Black College App (CBCA) is much like the Common App …

financial aid

Will The Pell Grant Change as a Result of the OBBB?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 11, 2025

Key Takeaways: The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) was signed into law on July 4, 2025, and will bring some changes to the Pell Grant in 2026. Students will no longer be able to receive the Pell Grant if they have grant aid that meets or exceeds their cost of attendance. The OBBB also affects …

affordability & college cost

Most Affordable Law Schools

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 23, 2026

Key Takeaways: A law degree costs $217,480 on average in 2024, and the price increases every year. Affordable law schools include Southern University, University of South Dakota, and CUNY School of Law. Complete the FAFSA, score well on the LSAT, and apply for scholarships to further lower the cost. Going to college is expensive, and …

college majors & minors, college search

Dental Schools in Florida

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 4, 2025

Key Takeaways: There are only 3 dental schools in Florida: LECOM, NOVA Southeastern University, and the University of Florida. Dental school takes 4 years to complete, but students can pursue advanced dentistry programs, which usually take an additional 1 to 3 years. Applicants should have a strong GPA and high DAT scores to improve admission …

student loans

College Loans for Parents

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 1, 2025

Key Takeaways: Qualifying parents can borrow direct PLUS Loans through the federal government or parent college loans through private lenders. Federal parent PLUS loans usually have more repayment options and lower interest rates than private options. You can apply for a PLUS loan on the FSA website, but you may have to complete a separate …

financial advice & planning

How Much Does Trade School Cost?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 1, 2025

Key Takeaways Trade school tuition costs range from $3,973 to $16,877. The total cost of attendance depends on the type of program, school, length, and more. You can complete the FAFSA, apply for scholarships, and request tuition reimbursement to lower the price further. Trade schools, with tuition ranging from $3,973 to $16,877 on average, are typically …