ACT & SAT

Why Breaks Are Important

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

No matter where you are in the college search process, whether just starting your list or polishing those applications, you need to be taking breaks. This includes breaks from studying for the SAT or ACT, scholarship applications, and your junior or senior year work. While you have a lot to get done, you also need …

college admissions, college applications

What Do You Do If You Were Accepted Under Early Decision?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you applied under Early Decision, it’s likely that you have heard back from the college by now. Congratulations if you were accepted! You may be wondering what the next steps are in early decision acceptance. Your new school should be reaching out with those shortly if they haven’t already. But we’ll cover some of …

student life

College Dorm Room Essentials for Your Christmas Wishlist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 27, 2026

Putting together your Christmas Wishlist? It’s a great idea to make sure you have your spring college dorm room essentials! Maybe your friends had them in the fall you want them now too! No matter what the case is, these are great gift ideas awesome additions to the ultimate dorm room. A Compact Vacuum With …

college search, tips tools & advice

Planning Your College Search

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Juniors: With the new year, if you are planning to go to college, it’s time to get started on your college search! Do you know where to begin? If not – it’s okay! We’ve put together a quick checklist and some tools for you! Ask Yourself Questions Asking yourself some questions to start off your …

college admissions, college applications

What is the universal college application deadline?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 20, 2025

Key takeaways: The universal application deadline is January 1 for regular decision submissions, but not every college uses this specific date. You’ll have to submit your application earlier if you wish to apply under Early Action or Early Decision. Most colleges won’t accept late submissions but may make exceptions for emergencies. Many colleges and universities …

majors & industries, questions & answers

Choosing Your Classes for the Spring Semester

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

The spring semester is just around the corner! Have you chosen your classes yet for 2022? If you haven’t, it’s time to get a move on. As the start of the semester draws near, fewer classes will have spots available. Here are some tips for choosing your courses: Know What You Need Whether you have …

financial advice & planning, financial aid

Types of financial aid to help fund your education

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 16, 2025

Key takeaways College can cost more than $38,000 per year, which puts it out of reach for many students and families. Financial aid, including loans, Work-Study, grants, scholarships, state aid, and more, can help bridge the gap between what you have and what you need. Complete the FAFSA and research financial aid awards as soon …

student loans

What Are Student Loan Rehabilitation Programs?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Student loan rehabilitation programs are designed to offer students a structured path out of default. The U.S. Department of Education created this program specifically for federal Direct and FFEL loans. Federal Direct and FFEL loans go into default when the payment is not made for 270 days or more. This carries a series of serious …

college applications

What You Need To Know About College Application Fees

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 5, 2024

Key Takeaways: The average undergraduate college application fee is about $47, but fees vary by college. College application fees range from $0 – $500, but most cost within the $30-$90 range. In addition to the application fee itself, you may incur other application related expenses like test registration costs (AP, SAT/ACT), fees for pulling transcripts, …