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CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Explore our collection of admissions FAQs. Each answer is expert-approved by our team to help you reach your goals.


Wrapping up my Common App essay - any tips?

Hey everyone, feeling a bit nervous here. I'm working on my Common App essay, and I'm not sure how to end it on a strong note. I've told a pretty personal story, but how do I make my conclusion memora …

2 years ago

Updating Recommender Info on Common App: How To?

Quick question: If one of my recommenders changed their email or job position, how do I update their contact information in my Common App after I've already invited them? I want to make sure there's n …

2 years ago

What benefits does joining the National Junior Honor Society offer?

Okay, so I'm a sophomore and I've been invited to join the National Junior Honor Society. I’m weighing out my options and trying to decide if it's worth the extra time. Can you guys share what kind of …

2 years ago

Unique aspects of Colgate University

I've been eyeing Colgate for a while, and I'd love to know more about what sets it apart academically. What programs or characteristics make Colgate University stand out from other liberal arts colleg …

2 years ago

Do they offer the PSAT in the spring, or is it only a fall thing?

I missed out on the PSAT this fall... have I lost my chance, or do they offer it again in the spring? Wanted to take it for the National Merit Scholarship competition, and I'm hoping I haven't missed …

2 years ago

Which colleges require the FAFSA for merit-based scholarships?

I'm starting to look into scholarships and someone mentioned that some colleges demand you fill out the FAFSA to be considered for merit-based scholarships. Is this a common practice? And how do I fin …

2 years ago

What history classes are generally required for high school graduation?

Hey everyone! As I'm planning my junior and senior year schedules, I'm curious about what history courses are typically required to graduate. I want to make sure I'm on track and wondering if there ar …

2 years ago

Can taking FFA classes in high school help with college admissions?

Hey peeps, I'm super involved in FFA (Future Farmers of America) and I'm taking several FFA classes. Do colleges recognize the value of these classes and activities, or are they overshadowed by more a …

2 years ago

Taking honors classes in middle school?

Hi guys, I'm curious if the honors classes I took in middle school will have any impact on my high school record or college admissions? Do high schools or colleges care about those classes, or do they …

2 years ago

Is there a reliable weighted GPA calculator for a 5.0 scale online?

This 4.0 scale is confusing me because my school uses a 5.0 scale. Do any of you know a good online calculator that can handle weighted GPAs, preferably one that works with the 5.0 scale? I need to fi …

2 years ago

Which application system do CSUs prefer?

Hi everyone! I've got a question that's been bothering me as I plan my college list. Do the California State Universities (CSUs) use the Common App, or do they have a different system they prefer? Try …

2 years ago

GPA requirements at community colleges?

So, I'm considering all my options, and community college is on the table. Do community colleges typically have GPA requirements? I'm aiming to keep my grades up, but it's good to know what to expect …

2 years ago

Who is eligible to take the PSAT and when should you do it?

Helloooo people, quick question - I know the PSAT is a thing for juniors, but can sophomores take it too? Also, is there a best year to take the PSAT in high school or does it not really matter? Just …

2 years ago

Does National Honor Society membership make a difference in college admissions?

Hey everyone, just a bit stressed here. I'm considering joining the National Honor Society at my school. It's quite a commitment, and I'm wondering how much weight does NHS membership actually carry d …

2 years ago

What are some fun class activities for high school that you guys actually enjoyed?

Feeling a bit over the daily grind of lectures and notes. I'd love to hear about some engaging class activities you guys have done in your high school classes. Trying to suggest some to my teachers th …

2 years ago

Where can I find reputable summer calculus courses for high school students?

Interested in getting a head start on calculus before senior year kicks off, and I've been looking into summer programs. Could you guys recommend any programs that offer calculus for high school stude …

2 years ago

How crucial are high school AP classes for college admissions?

Hey guys, just a bit stressed about course selection. How necessary is it to load up on the hardest AP classes to impress colleges, or is it better to have a good balance? Would love to hear your expe …

2 years ago

High school courses for future lawyers – what should I be taking?

I've got a serious ambition to become a lawyer someday. What high school courses would you all recommend for someone heading down the legal path? Do debate and government classes cut it, or is there m …

2 years ago

When does USC start sending out likely letters?

Okay, I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for college responses. For those familiar, when does USC typically send their likely letters? Are they a good sign of being admitted and do ALL admitted studen …

2 years ago

What's the maximum word count for the Common App essay?

Hey guys, just starting on my Common App essay and I read there's a word limit? What's the max I can write and does anyone have any tips for staying under the limit while still getting my point across …

2 years ago
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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.