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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.


How many AP classes do Ivy League schools expect?

Hey all! So how many AP classes would Ivy League universities typically expect an applicant to have taken? Is there a certain number they like to see, or is it more about the rigor of your courses? Th …

2 years ago

Can anyone provide tips on researching universities?

Hi everyone! I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the college options out there. What strategies or resources have you found helpful when researching different universities? Any tips would be much appreciated …

2 years ago

I have a low GPA, what can I do to improve my chances for college admissions?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior with a low GPA due to a few personal challenges. I'm worried that it will hurt my chances for college admissions. Is there anything I can do to offset the impact …

2 years ago

For those familiar with BYU, is it a research university?

Hey guys, I have a question regarding Brigham Young University. Is BYU considered a research university or not? I have a strong interest in research and would like to attend a school that can support …

2 years ago

What exactly defines an Ivy League school?

Hey guys! I'm a bit confused about what makes a school an Ivy League, beyond just being prestigious. Are there certain criteria they meet? Is there a specific definition? If anyone has any insight int …

2 years ago

How do I differentiate between a Research 1 university and others?

Hey all, I recently came across the term 'Research 1 university,' and I'm a little unsure about what it means. What sets these universities apart from others? What are examples of such universities? A …

2 years ago

Is a 1490 SAT score good enough for Ivy League consideration?

Hi all, I've been pretty set on applying to some Ivy League schools. I received a 1490 on my SAT, but I'm still unsure if that's high enough for these institutions. Should I consider retaking the test …

2 years ago

Is a 1520 SAT score sufficient for Ivy League admissions?

I just got my SAT scores, and I have a 1520. I'm excited, but I'm wondering if it's enough for the Ivies. I want to apply to schools like Princeton and Penn, and I don't know if my SAT score will be c …

2 years ago

Would Stanford University be classified as a research university?

Hi there, I'm looking into applying to Stanford, and I wanted to know if it's considered a research university. I'm really interested in getting involved with research during college, so will there be …

2 years ago

Do colleges value AP scores more than SAT/ACT scores?

Hi all, I'm curious whether colleges give more weight to AP scores compared to SAT/ACT scores? My AP scores are strong, but my SAT score may not be as competitive. How much do admissions officers take …

2 years ago

Is the FAFSA the only financial aid application?

Hey guys, just want to be informed about financial aid. Is the FAFSA the only application I need to complete to be considered for financial aid? Or are there other forms I should be aware of? Thanks!

2 years ago

When is the typical Early Decision deadline?

Hello everyone! I'm planning to apply Early Decision to my top-choice school, but I want to make sure I'm on track. When are ED deadlines usually due, and how much time do I have to submit my applicat …

2 years ago

Is a 1500 SAT score competitive enough for Ivy League admissions?

Hey everyone! I recently received my SAT scores and got a 1500. I'm proud of my score, but I'm not sure if it's strong enough to apply to Ivy League schools. Would you guys say it's competitive or sho …

2 years ago

Is Penn State known for its research?

Hey, fellow college applicants! I've been considering Penn State as one of my top choices, but I want to know more about their research opportunities. Is research a big part of the university's cultur …

2 years ago

How do I balance my extracurriculars with academics?

Hi everyone, I'm a junior in high school and I've been trying to find the right balance between my extracurricular activities and my academics. I know that both are important for college applications, …

2 years ago

Regarding Northwestern: Is it a research university?

Hello! I'm looking into Northwestern University and I was wondering if it's considered a research university. Do undergrad students at Northwestern have many opportunities to engage in research? Are s …

2 years ago

How to handle a low GPA for college admissions?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior and I'm worried about my GPA. It's a bit lower than I'd like, and I'm wondering how to handle this in my college applications. Are there ways to make up for a low …

2 years ago

Top research universities - any recommendations?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior starting my college search process, and I'm looking for some recommendations on top research universities. My intended major is in aerospace engineering, so if you know any u …

2 years ago

What's the deal with tier 1 research universities?

Hey all! I keep hearing about tier 1 research universities on various college discussion boards. Would anyone care to explain what this means and how significant it is in the grand scheme of things? I …

2 years ago

Do college interviews have a big impact on admissions decisions?

Hey everyone! I'm preparing my college applications and some of my top choice schools offer interviews. Are college interviews important in the admissions process? If so, how can I best prepare for th …

2 years ago
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About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ
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.