Posts in College Admissions
How to Make a Good Impression on Your College Applications with Optional Introduction Videos


In recent years, many colleges have incorporated optional introduction videos into their application process. These videos give students a unique opportunity to introduce themselves beyond test scores, grades, and written essays. A well-crafted video can showcase your personality, passions, and communication skills. While it’s optional, submitting one can make your application stand out. Here's how to prepare an outstanding optional introduction video for college applications.

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College Interviews for High School Students: A Comprehensive Guide

College interviews play a crucial role in the admissions process for high school students aspiring to attend prestigious educational institutions. These interviews provide an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, accomplishments, and potential, beyond what is stated on their application. In this article, we will explore the individuals who conduct these interviews, when they are typically held, and provide a comprehensive list of questions to help students prepare for these important meetings.

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16 Factors in College Admission Decisions

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) survey, conducted in fall 2023, examines 16 factors influencing college admission decisions, including academic coursework and grades, test scores, application essays, recommendation letters, and students’ “demonstrated interest” in attending the college or university. This comprehensive review provides insight into what colleges prioritize in applicants and offers valuable guidance for high school students and their parents. 

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A Guide to the 8-College System at UC San Diego

UC San Diego (UCSD) has a unique system where the undergraduate experience is divided into eight residential colleges, each with its own distinct philosophy, general education requirements, and campus culture. This structure is designed to provide students with a smaller community within the large university and to tailor their academic experience based on their interests and values.

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How Colleges Recalculate Applicants’ GPAs for College Admissions

With the seemingly infinite ways high schools calculate GPAs, many colleges recalculate the GPA in the application review process to provide a standardized way to compare the academic achievement of students from different high schools. In other words, the GPA reported on your high school transcript is not necessarily what colleges use when reviewing your application.

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Mastering the University of California Personal Insight Questions: Effective Strategies for Success

In this article, we will delve into each University of California Personal Insight Question prompt and provide effective strategies to help you tackle them with confidence and create standout essays that capture the attention of UC admissions officers.

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Understanding Early Decision, Early Action, and Restrictive Early Action in US College Admissions: Pros and Cons

Early decision (ED), early action (EA), and restrictive early action (REA) programs allow students to apply to college early and potentially increase their chances of admission. In this article, we will delve into the details of these application options, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages.

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Completing the AP Capstone Diploma Helps High School Students Stand Out On Their College Applications

The AP Capstone Diploma is an innovative diploma program offered by the College Board, the same organization that administers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams. The program is designed to enhance students' critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills, providing them with a rigorous academic experience that prepares them for college and beyond.

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