college search

Colleges with non-traditional academic schedules

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 16, 2025

Key takeaways Traditional college schedules use a two-semester plan, with one term in the fall and one term in the spring. However, some colleges use non-traditional academic schedules that focus on fewer courses per term or are shorter than a standard semester. Consider how you learn and compare colleges to determine if a non-traditional schedule …

tips tools & advice

10 Study Habits to Break BEFORE College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 20, 2023

Study habits are made in high school and for some, come pretty easily. In college, you may find that you need to tweak those habits as courses and schedules may be more difficult. Professors will expect you to think critically, analyze information, and defend an opinion. Studying hard will be important to your success. If you …

ACT & SAT

Average SAT Scores – What Does the Average Student Score on the SAT?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 8, 2024

In 2024, the average SAT score was 1024. The 50th percentile was 1010. 1,973,891 graduating high school seniors in 2024 took the SAT. The mean score for the Evidence-Based Reading section was 519 and the mean score for the Mathematics section was 505. SAT scores vary between different demographic groups and college acceptance histories. How …

ACT & SAT

SAT Score Percentiles and Rankings: What’s Good

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 6, 2024

The answer to “What is a good SAT score?” isn’t always straightforward. There is no single answer; it depends on what you mean and your own goals! One way to define “good” is to see how your score compares to your peers and other students at the colleges you’re hoping to attend. Many schools will …

scholarships

10 Scholarships for LGBTQIA+ Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 15, 2024

Scholarships are as diverse as the student body and there are several that are dedicated to LGBTQ+ students. Below, we’ve listed 7 that may be awards you qualify for and should consider applying for.    Scholarships are as diverse as the student body itself and there are several dedicated to LGBTQIA+ students. These scholarships are …

questions & answers

Should You Apply Early Decision or Early Action When Financial Aid Matters?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 2, 2026

Key takeaways: Accepted early decision students are expected to attend the college and will only receive a single financial aid offer letter. Early action is non-binding and a decision is needed until May 1, giving accepted students time to compare acceptance and financial aid awards. If you were accepted under early decision but didn’t receive …

college comparisons

The 25 best suburban colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 3, 2026

Key takeaways: Suburban schools can offer many of the same experiences as big cities with a quieter atmosphere. Some of the best suburban colleges include Stanford University, University of Notre Dame, and Swarthmore College. Campus visits can help you decide if a school and the surrounding area is right for your college experience. Love the …

college comparisons

Federal College Scorecard: What Students and Parents Need to Know

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 1, 2025

With almost 6,000 colleges and universities in the United States, comparing each one carefully would take you decades! However, the federal “College Scorecard” is an excellent resource to learn about the statistics of a college – from the first-year retention rate to typical earnings after graduation. Here’s a look at how the College Scorecard can …

affordability & college cost

These 10 “expensive” colleges have free college tuition for middle-class families

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 10, 2026

Key takeaways: Some colleges offer free tuition or full financial aid packages to families who make below certain incomes. Harvard, Caltech, and MIT waive tuition costs for students who make less than $200,000. Eligible students need to demonstrate financial need by completing the FAFSA and other requested aid applications. Did you know that some colleges …