CollegeVine Expert FAQ

So I keep hearing from friends and on forums about Duke likely letters. Are these for real, and what stats or ECs do you think you need to get one? Absolutely buzzing at the idea of getting one but do …

Calling all tech gurus! I'm thinking of taking the CLEP Information Systems exam to get ahead before college. Anyone out there who has taken it and can offer some wisdom on how to study for it? What t …

Hey guys, I've been hearing a lot about colleges designated as HBCUs and PWIs. Can someone explain in simple terms what each stands for and the main differences between the two? I'm trying to figure o …

Hey folks, I've got a question that might be obvious to some but I'm just trying to wrap my head around it. With HBCUs being historically Black colleges and universities, I was wondering if they're ex …

Quick question for you knowledgeable folks – how do I go about sending my SAT superscore through the Common App? Do all colleges accept superscores, or should I check with each institution?

Hey y'all, I've noticed that there's an 'additional information' section on the Common App. I'm not sure what would be relevant to put here. Should I explain a low grade, or would it be more useful to …

Hey friends, my high school is offering an ethnic studies course next semester and I’m thinking about signing up. Can someone explain exactly what ethnic studies covers and if it's looked upon favorab …

Just out of curiosity, with everything going on and a lot of tests moving online, is it possible to take a CLEP exam from the comfort of my own room? If anyone’s done it, what was the process like?

Hello everyone! I'm trying to target some schools in Florida, and I'm a bit stressed about test scores. Does anyone know which colleges in Florida have decided not to require the SAT for upcoming admi …

Hey guys, I saw a Forbes article mention that HBCUs are underfunded and I'm trying to understand what that means for students. Does that impact the quality of education or campus resources? If I'm loo …

Yikes, a bit overwhelmed here. How do I even approach the first Common App essay prompt? What makes an amazing essay for that 'background, identity, interest, or talent' topic?

One of my teachers wrote me an awesome letter of recommendation, and I want to thank them properly. What’s a good way to show my appreciation? Should I write a thank you note, get them a gift, or is t …

I’ve been doing some research on colleges and noticed that HBCUs often mention their alumni giving rates. How does the alumni giving rate at an HBCU impact the school and its students? Would a higher …

I'm a high school junior interested in possibly attending an HBCU, and I'm curious about their athletics programs. Specifically for men’s soccer, what are the opportunities and recruitment like at HBC …

Hey guys! Our English teacher mentioned she wants to plan a field trip that correlates with our curriculum. Any cool ideas for field trips that other schools have done? Something that would make the l …

Okay, so I'm a junior and I took the PSAT last year with pretty meh results in the reading section. It's like no matter how much I read, I can't seem to get the score up. Can anyone share what worked …

I've heard mixed things about AP scores being required for college admissions. Are there specific schools that expect you to submit these scores? Or are they just for placement and credit once you're …

Hey guys! Has anyone who's taken the Biology CLEP exam got tips for effective last-minute studying? I've been swamped with school work and I'm worried I haven't prepped enough. Also, would love to kno …

As a junior, I'm slowly starting to build my list of colleges and I'm sincere about wanting to go to an HBCU. What I'm curious about is what factors make an HBCU top-rated? Are we talking about academ …

Can anyone share some fun and educational activities that really stuck with you in health class? Trying to suggest some new ideas to my teacher that could make our classes more engaging!