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ApplyThe New Ivies in 2026: Academics, Admissions and Affordability
If you’re considering colleges, the “New Ivies” present strong options. Use this guide to explore and compare them by academics, admissions, and affordability. In This Article: What Are the New […]
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ApplicationsHow to Get College Recommendation Letters, and How They Help Students Stand Out
A college recommendation letter is a key part of the application process. This guide explains who to ask for a recommendation letter, how to ask, and why it matters. Plus, […]
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College Financial PlanningFAFSA Independent Student Guide: Challenges, Benefits, Criteria, How to Decide, and How to File
It’s not easy to become a FAFSA independent student, but it’s the right choice for certain people. This article explains how this status works, its challenges, and its advantages. It […]
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College LifeThings to Bring to College: Clothes, Dorm Decor, Bedding, Electronics, and More
Many parents find that their college-bound kids may not be the most practical packers. This article provides valuable insights into packing the right clothes, choosing essential dorm decor, bedding, and […]
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College List BuildingCollege Spreadsheet: The Ultimate Guide to Making, Using, and Organizing Your College List
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the college application process? Do you need help keeping track of various colleges you’re interested in? A college spreadsheet might be the solution you’ve been […]
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ApplyCollege Essay Examples, Why They Worked, and Essay Tips
Your application essay is pivotal in distinguishing yourself from other candidates in the competitive college admissions landscape. College essays offer a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations […]
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College LifeWhat to Include in a College First Aid Kit
Sure, ointments, pain relievers, and Band-Aids are standard college first aid kit essentials, but these days, so is lifesaving Narcan and so much more. This handy checklist can help ensure […]
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ApplicationsExploring Early Decision 2: How It Works and Who Should Consider It
Are you a student looking for a second chance to secure admission to a college? Early Decision 2 (ED 2) might be the answer you’re looking for. Explore how ED […]
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College Financial PlanningWhat is Room and Board? Full Guide With Costs, Pros & Cons, Tips
When preparing for college, one of the essential aspects to consider is room and board. But what exactly does room and board entail? And how do you choose your best […]
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College LifeWhat Are the Easiest and Hardest College Majors?
Choosing a college major is a vital step toward a student’s academic success. This article explores college majors and factors that make them easy or hard. We highlight easier ones […]
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AdviceParents Share the Worst Parts of the College Admissions Process
We asked parents of graduating seniors to share the most challenging parts of the college admissions process. Read their answers and lessons learned so you can avoid the same struggles! […]
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AdviceHow to Motivate Juniors to Start the College Process
Motivating high school students to begin the college search process can be difficult. A member of our Paying for College 101 community said her high-achieving junior has been pushing back […]
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LearnWhat Are Peer Colleges?
Peer colleges are institutions of higher education that are deemed comparable to each other based on specific criteria. These criteria may include factors such as mission, size, academic programs, public […]
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AdviceYes! Average Students Do Get College Acceptance Letters
Not everyone needs to be at the top of their class to receive a college acceptance. And while some students are considered “average” by teachers and educators, the term is […]
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11th GradersWhat’s the #1 Thing to Do Before Searching for Colleges?
We all love lists—”The Top 10 Things to Do Before You Start Your College List”; “The Top 5 Terms to Know Before You Apply to a College”; “The Top 3 […]
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FinanceHow to Avoid Student Loans: How Parents Can Help
As an 18-year-old, it’s easy to see the world as nothing but possibility. And it’s true! But those possibilities come with costs and trade-offs, which is hard for teens to […]
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SurviveThe Good, the Bad, and the Clingy: What Type of Parent Are You on College Drop-Off Day?
Discover the four types of college parents during dorm drop-off day. Are you a military driller or a reluctant fareweller? Find out now!
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SurviveSaying Goodbye to Your College Freshman: Tips for Parents
Saying goodbye to a college freshman can be an emotional and challenging experience for parents. Here are some tips you can share with parents to help them navigate this transition: […]
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ApplyCommon Data Set Ultimate Guide: Use it to Find the Right College
With about 4,000 U.S. colleges to choose from, finding the right college at the price right is no easy task. The Common Data Set provides standardized information about each college […]
