questions & answers

What is an “Outside” Scholarship?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 28, 2025

Outside scholarships are financial aid awards that help you fund your college education. Instead of coming from your college, they come from third party organizations, such as businesses or nonprofits. Since you don’t have to pay scholarships back*, they can be a great way to help pay for college. What Is an Outside Scholarship? An …

college applications

What Do Colleges Look for in Application Essays?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 29, 2024

Submitting your test scores, grades, achievements, and personal essay is all part of your application checklist. Many believe that the most important factor in the decision process is school grades or admission test scores. And while these are important, your essay holds more value than you might initially think. It’s not just a formality—it’s a …

ACT & SAT

Pros and Cons of Taking ACT or SAT Practice Tests Online

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are a lot of methods students use to study and prepare for their ACT or SAT test date: mobile apps, practice exams at school, tutoring, textbooks, and more. A number of test-takers also use practice tests online, but there are pros and cons to this tactic. Pro: Paperless  There’s no denying that having practice …

ACT & SAT

ACT / SAT Test Prep Mobile Apps!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you’re studying for the SAT or the ACT, any edge can be a huge help for your efforts. With all the books you’re cracking open, you may have not realized that some assistance is available right on your phone or tablet. Here are some ACT and SAT mobile apps that are great for preparing …

student life

How to Engage with Your Chosen College Online

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’ve accepted your college for the upcoming fall (congratulations!), there are plenty of ways to engage before you arrive on campus. Here are just a few ways to take part in your new school before classes begin. Sign Up For Orientation to Engage Many colleges make signing up for freshman orientation or student events mandatory. …

college search

What If You’re Accepted Into a College You Haven’t Visited?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Applying for colleges is a stressful and busy time; you may not have been able to visit them all before you sent in those applications. However, your acceptance letters have come in, and you’ve been accepted into a college you didn’t have time to visit. What now? If it’s a school you’re seriously considering, here …

questions & answers

What is a TEACH Grant?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023

While you’re filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA), you may have seen the TEACH Grant name tossed around a bit. What exactly is it? And more importantly, do you qualify? What is it? The TEACH Grant, which stands for The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education, is for students …

ACT & SAT

What If My High School Only Offers the ACT or the SAT and I Want To Take The Other?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s time to take your standardized college tests. But, you’ve discovered your high school doesn’t host the ACT or SAT you wanted to take and have studied for. What now? It’s important to research and know your options for testing locations before you sign up for SAT/ACT or the other. Check With Your School District …

financial aid

What Financial Aid Can You Earn From The State Government?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023

Almost all students know to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA), but many actually forget to check if their state government offers any financial aid. Here are some things you’ll need to know before you start the search. Your Options Depend on Your State Almost every state education department offers grants, …