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For Colleges & Universities

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 notebook, pencils, paperclips and protractors scattered on a desk.
myths

Myth: The ACT is Easier than the SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you’re a high school student planning on going to college, you know you need to take either the ACT or SAT. Most colleges accept either the ACT or SAT, so that’s good. But you may be wondering “Is the ACT easier than the SAT?” It’s actually a common misconception that the ACT test is …
college match
college applications

When You Should Submit Your EA/ED Application

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you’re certain you want to attend a school, you may consider applying Early Action or Early Decision. Deadlines for these are before regular applications come due. Here’s what you should know about EA/ED application deadlines. Pay Attention to the EA/ED Application Deadlines The first thing you want to pay attention to when it comes …
A high school student's calendar planner sitting on a wooden desk.
ACT & SAT

When Will ACT / SAT Scores Be Released?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
After taking the ACT or SAT, you may be wondering just when the ACT or SAT score release dates are? Thankfully, in most cases, you don’t have to wait for long. However, there aren’t actually any specified ACT or SAT score release dates! Here’s a short guide to how the results are released. When are …
Students sitting around a table with paper and pens.
ACT & SAT

Pros and Cons of Taking SAT Subject Tests

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you’re considering taking SAT Subject Tests, you may be wondering about the benefits and detriments. There are things to consider and it’s important to weigh both the pros and the cons before deciding on whether or not a Subject Test is the right choice for you. Pro: It Can Boost Your Application (Or Even …
best university
college applications

How to Decide if the Common Application is Right for You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
The Common Application is a college application that is accepted by hundreds of schools all over the United States. Instead of completing dozens of applications one by one (with dozens of essays as well), you can complete one single application. But how do you know if the Common Application is right for you? Here are …
College student filing her FAFSA on her phone and laptop.
financial aid

The question-by-question FAFSA guide

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 20, 2026
Key takeaways Most colleges in the United States use the FAFSA to determine federal and institutional financial aid packages for their students. The FAFSA asks students and their parents about personal circumstances, demographics, and finances. The completed form is processed in 1 to 3 days, and students can then review their estimated financial aid and …
most competitive colleges
college applications

An Application Strategy For Competitive Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Applying for colleges can be a busy time for your junior and senior years of high school. And, if you’re applying to most competitive colleges, you may be worried about your acceptance odds. Luckily, there are ways to approach your applications to improve your chances of admission and lower the stress during your final years …

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