Hilary Cairns

Hilary Cairns is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz and has a BA in English/Creative Writing. She's an established freelance writer who also has a hand in marketing, social media, and editing for various businesses across the United States.
A perfect ACT score of 36 is elusive, but that shouldn't stop you from getting into your dream school.
ACT & SAT

What is The Highest Possible ACT Score?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 4, 2025
The highest ACT score you can earn is 36. This is the composite ACT score and is calculated by averaging the scores in four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Each of the 4 ACT sections is scored on a scale of 1 – 36. What is the Highest Possible ACT Score? The highest possible …
scholarships

State Grants for Kansas Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023
The state of Kansas offers several grants and scholarship programs to its students! Check out some examples below and make sure to visit the Kansas Board of Regents website to get further information about applying to each. Kansas College Grants Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant For those pursuing a technical certificate or an associate of …
financial aid

How to Answer FAFSA Questions: Your 2022-2023 Guide

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 26, 2025
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid—or FAFSA—is a form that determines a student’s financial need level, and opens the opportunity for scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. Though not strictly mandatory, the FAFSA is still a MUST for students in terms of paying for college. And, you need to know how to answer …
scholarships

State Grants for Kentucky Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 26, 2025
Kentucky has several college grants available to its students, many of which are funded by the state’s lottery. Keep reading to find some information about available scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs in the state, as well as links to find further details about these awards and others. Kentucky College Grants 1. Kentucky Educational Excellence …
scholarships

State Grants for Louisiana Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 3, 2025
Louisiana has several scholarships, grants, and awards available to its students, including the TOPS. Here’s what you need to know about this program, as well as others, plus additional details on where you can find further information in the state. Louisiana College Grants 1. TOPS The Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) is a large …
Getting good high school grades doesn't mean you don't need to study for the SAT or ACT.
college admissions, questions & answers

What is the Difference Between Weighted and Unweighted GPA?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 30, 2025
Key Takeaways Unweighted GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale and treats all classes equally, regardless of difficulty level. Weighted GPA accounts for course rigor by assigning higher point values to advanced courses like AP, IB, and Honors classes, typically using a 5.0 scale. Colleges understand that high schools use different GPA systems and will …
questions & answers

Ultimate Graduation Checklist For Parents

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 2, 2026
Key takeaways: Parents can help their students prepare for college by visiting campuses, reviewing potential majors, and completing the FAFSA with them. As graduation approaches, help them compare their financial aid offers, review college options, and plan their graduation party. During the summer before college, spend quality time together, consider attending parent orientation, and assist …
Man and woman shaking hands during Penn State Fall Career Days Fair.
student loans

Companies That Help Pay Student Loans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023
As your college graduation draws near, you may wonder, how will I pay off these student loans? There’s no doubt that college is expensive and while scholarships and grant aid can help, many students are required to take out loans to bridge the gap. Thankfully, you may not be alone in paying it back. Some …

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