CollegeVine Expert FAQ

As I start my college applications, I'm trying to figure out what exactly makes someone a strong candidate. What should I be focusing on in my application to increase my chances of getting into my top …

Hey, does anyone know if Columbia accepts transfer students? I'm currently at a different university, but I'm not really happy with my situation here. If possible, I'd like to transfer to Columbia, bu …

Hey, I'm trying to understand how to submit reference letters along with my Common App. Can someone explain how the process works? I want to make sure my teachers know what to do and everything goes s …

Hey there! I'm writing the AP Seminar exam soon, and I'm not quite sure what time I'm supposed to arrive at the test center. Can anyone give me more info on when I should show up and if there's anythi …

Hey everyone! I'm a high school junior looking into UC Berkeley for college, and I want to get a head start on the essay prompts. Can anyone tell me what the prompts are for this year's application? T …

Hey everyone! I'm aiming for a perfect 36 on the ACT, and I was hoping to get some advice from those who have achieved it or know someone who has. What strategies, resources, or study habits did you f …

Hey everyone, how much do colleges rely on SAT scores during the admissions process? I know they're important, but I've got a lot of other things going on and I'm just trying to figure out how much we …

Hi all! I'm really into Mock Trial and I've invested a lot of time in it throughout high school. Do colleges typically think highly of Mock Trial as an extracurricular activity? Will it help me stand …

Hey y'all! I found out about the Cowboy Commitment Scholarship and I think I'm eligible for it! Does anyone here have any experience with this scholarship? Any tips or advice would be greatly apprecia …

I've taken a lot of AP courses in high school, and I'm wondering if Columbia accepts AP scores for credit. If they do, can anyone tell me what scores are needed, and if there are any limitations on ho …

I've recently heard about the BRDD program while exploring schools with strong architecture and design programs. I'm curious to learn more! Can anyone give me a brief overview of what the Brown/RISD D …

Hi everyone! So, I'm applying to Cornell and I could really use some inspiration for my essays. Does anyone have a sample Cornell essay they'd be willing to share? I'd love to see what has worked for …

Hey y'all, do colleges see if you've had detentions in high school when you're applying? I'm scared that my few detentions will affect my chances of getting into a good school. Any advice/info is help …

Hey guys, I'm trying to find good community service opportunities in my area for high school students. What kind of programs or organizations should I be looking for? Any suggestions on where to start …

Hey everyone, I've been hearing that some students create intro videos for their college applications. Is it common for Brown applicants to submit an intro video? If so, how important is it for my app …

Hi everyone! For those who applied or are applying to USC, they ask you to describe yourself in three words. I'm a little stuck on this prompt, so I'm curious, how did y'all approach it? Any suggestio …

Does anyone have any experience with AP study halls? Are they effective/helpful with managing time for studying during the school day? I'd love to hear your thoughts on them!

Hi everyone, I'm trying to boost my college application by participating in more outside school activities. Any suggestions for extracurriculars that'll help me stand out to college admissions offices …

Hey all! I've been hearing the term 'Black Ivies' thrown around a lot lately, and I'm not exactly sure what it means. Can anyone explain what the term refers to, and which colleges are considered as s …

Hey everyone! I'm really interested in applying to both Boston College and Boston University in the coming months, but I'm struggling to fully grasp the differences between the two. Academically, soci …