CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Ok, so I know I have to take the PSAT soon but I’m a bit fuzzy on the details. How do you actually take the PSAT? Do I need to register somewhere or does my school automatically sign me up?

Anyone here know if the TI-30XA is an acceptable calculator to use on the PSAT? I want to be fully prepared and ensure I have the right tools.

I've often struggled with making friends and have felt pretty isolated during high school. Would admissions officers empathize with an essay about coping with loneliness, or does it risk portraying me …

So, I just found out I might not be able to take the PSAT due to a family situation. Is there a makeup date, or could I take it next year? What's the usual process here?

I've been looking at Hofstra University and I'm kinda intrigued, but I’m not totally sure what sets it apart. Could someone who’s familiar with Hofstra share what the university is best known for or w …

I've been looking into SFSU and I was wondering if anyone could give me an insight into what San Francisco State University is best known for? Maybe in terms of its programs, campus life, or culture?

Okay, so who's actually allowed to take the PSAT? Are there any requirements I need to know about, or can any high school student sign up? I want to try it for practice but I'm not sure if there's a c …

Does anyone know what's considered a 'good' PSAT score? Like, I know it's not the SAT, but what scores should we be aiming for to know we're on the right track?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I've been hearing mixed advice about preparing for the PSAT. I understand that it can qualify me for National Merit Scholarships, but I'm not sure how much effort I shou …

I've been researching schools and can't help but wonder, how much does a specific major contribute to a university's overall reputation? For example, when we say a school is 'known for' a particular f …

Hello friends! As I'm starting to narrow down choices, Chapman University is on my radar, but I'm trying to get the inside scoop. What are the majors or departments that Chapman is known to excel in? …

I'm thinking of writing about the concept of innocence and experiences related to it as my essay topic. I'm just not sure if this theme is too abstract or if it could resonate well with the college ad …

So, I know that the PSAT is usually in October, but I'm not really sure when I am supposed to sign up for it? Can someone let me know when registration typically opens and any deadlines I should be aw …

Hey, could use a little help here. I'm considering the University of Dayton and trying to figure out their signature academic strengths or any stellar programs they're known for. Thoughts?

So I’m planning out my study schedule and was wondering how different the PSAT is from the SAT. Should I be prepping the same way for both tests or does the PSAT require a different strategy? Any insi …

I'm super confused on the entire recommender system on the Common App. How exactly do I invite my teachers, and what do they need to do once I've sent an invite?

Aside from being practice for the SAT, what's the real point of taking the PSAT? I heard it might have other benefits, but I’m a bit in the dark here. Can anyone shed light on its additional purposes?

So, I’m a sophomore and I recently received a 1270 on my PSAT. Is this a strong score for my grade level? Also, should I be starting to prepare for the SAT based on this score, or is it too soon?

Hello, I'm in the process of filling out my Common App and I'm not sure how to upload a teacher recommendation. Do I upload it myself, or does my teacher need to do it on their end? A little guidance …

Yo guys, kinda stressed about the reading section of the PSAT. I'm working towards a score that'll make me competitive for scholarships. What's a target score I should be aiming for in the reading sec …