CollegeVine Expert FAQ

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


Is there a strict word count for the Common App essays?

So I'm brainstorming for my Common App essays and I'm wondering, is there a strict word count I need to stick to? I know there's probably a max limit, but is hitting the upper limit looked at unfavora …

10 months ago

When are the Common App essay prompts released?

Just trying to plan ahead a bit—does anyone know when we can expect the Common App to release the essay prompts for this application cycle? Want to start brainstorming ideas early!

10 months ago

Writing Common App Essays as a Transfer Student

Hey everyone, does anyone know if transfer students need to write a full set of Common App essays? Or is the process different from first-year applicants?

10 months ago

Does UCF accept the Common App for their application process?

Hope everyone’s doing well! I’m just starting to get into the whole college application thing and I have the University of Central Florida (UCF) on my list. I was wondering, does UCF accept the Common …

10 months ago

Can I both apply to QuestBridge and use the Common App?

I’m considering QuestBridge for college but also want to keep my options open with the Common App. Is it allowed to apply through both platforms, or do I have to choose one?

10 months ago

Common App for Kennesaw State?

Hello comrades in college admission stress! Quick q: can I submit my application to Kennesaw State University through the Common App, or do they have their own separate portal? I'm just trying to figu …

10 months ago

What's the deal with the Common App FERPA waiver?

Hey everyone, I'm feeling a tad overwhelmed with the Common App—can someone walk me through the process of signing the FERPA waiver? Like, where do I find it and what does it mean for my rec letters?

10 months ago

Does Liberty University work with the Common App?

Hi folks, I'm in the process of organizing my college applications and wondering if Liberty University is on the Common App. I'm looking for a more efficient way to handle my applications and using th …

10 months ago

Does Duke University use the Common App for admissions?

Hey everyone! I'm working on my college list and I'm curious if Duke is on the Common App. Anyone who’s applying or applied have any insight?

10 months ago

How to best approach the 'Why This College' essay?

Hey folks, it's time for me to start my 'Why This College' essays and honestly, I'm kinda stressed. How do I research a college and incorporate that into my essay in a way that's both personal and spe …

10 months ago

When should you take the PSAT?

Hey everyone, I’m a bit confused about when I’m supposed to take the PSAT. Some of my friends took it sophomore year, while others are saying junior year is the key time. Could someone clarify the ide …

10 months ago

Is a 1030 PSAT score competitive enough for junior year?

Hey everyone! I just got my PSAT scores back and I have a 1030. I'm a sophomore and wondering if this is a good score at this stage? Will this put me in a decent place for the National Merit Scholarsh …

10 months ago

PSAT advice needed - is a score of 1120 showing promise or should I be concerned?

Okay, so, I just got my PSAT results and I scored a 1120... As a sophomore thinking ahead, should I take this as a good sign, or does it mean I've really got to step up my game for junior year? Also, …

10 months ago

Checking PSAT Scores ASAP!

Just a quick question, how can I check my PSAT scores as soon as they're released? I've been told it's through College Board, but I'm not sure about the exact steps. Not trying to freak out about it, …

10 months ago

Average PSAT scores: What should I be aiming for?

Feeling a tad overwhelmed by all the different stats out there. Could someone tell me what the average PSAT scores are typically, or what's considered a 'good' score for a high school junior?

10 months ago

Do colleges look at PSAT scores similarly to SAT scores?

Quick Q: I got my PSAT score back and it's decent, but I'm starting to prep for the SAT and I’m curious. Do colleges view PSAT scores on the same level as SAT ones, or is it mainly just for practice a …

10 months ago

Is the PSAT actually optional, or do some schools require it?

I’ve got a question for y’all - I heard from a friend that their school made them take the PSAT, but mine didn’t really push for it. So, is taking the PSAT optional everywhere, or are there some schoo …

10 months ago

Is a college essay required for every university application?

This might be a newbie question, but do all colleges require an essay when you apply? I'm trying to figure out my schedule and workload, and this would really help with my planning.

10 months ago

When do PSAT results typically come out?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to plan out my study schedule and I'm wondering if anyone knows how long it typically takes to get PSAT results back? I want to make sure I have enough time to review them and …

10 months ago

What's the deal with a 1220 PSAT score - good or bad news?

Hi friends, just got my PSAT score back and it's a 1220. As a junior, is this a score I should be happy with, or is it a wake-up call that I need to seriously get on top of my test prep game? I'm eyei …

10 months 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.