CollegeVine Expert FAQ

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


What is the difference between need-based and merit-based financial aid?

Hey guys, I'm a junior, and I've been hearing a lot about need-based and merit-based financial aid. Can someone explain the difference between the two? How do colleges determine who receives each type …

a year ago

How do colleges view community college transfer students?

Hello! I'm currently attending community college, and I plan on transferring to a four-year university after I complete my general education requirements. How do colleges view transfer students from c …

a year ago

Does the college I attend really matter in the long run?

Hi there! I'm a junior and I've been feeling a lot of pressure about the college application process. I know that getting into a prestigious school can be important, but I'm wondering if the college I …

a year ago

Does a college essay need a title?

Hello, I've just finished writing my college essay and I'm not sure if I should add a title to it. Do you guys think it's necessary or should I just leave it without one? I've heard mixed opinions and …

a year ago

Are Ivy League schools overrated or worth the hype?

Hey everyone, I've been debating whether or not I should apply to Ivy League schools. Are they as objectively amazing as people say they are, or are they overrated? I'm feeling a bit stressed because …

a year ago

Can I use my Common App essay for the Coalition App?

Hey there! Just wondering, can I use my Common App essay for my Coalition App? Are there any differences in terms of essay requirements that I should be aware of when reusing the essay? Thank you in a …

a year ago

As an older student applying to college, what should I focus on?

Hello! I'm an older student (25 years old) applying to college for the first time after working for several years. What should I focus on in my application, given that my high school experiences are f …

a year ago

How to research a university and compile a balanced college list?

Hey guys, I'm having a hard time figuring out what factors to consider when researching a university. What are some pointers you'd suggest when trying to compile a balanced college list? I'm an aspiri …

a year ago

Applying to Ivies with a unique artistic background?

Hi everyone! I'm a high school junior who's really passionate about digital art and animation, and I'm considering applying to Ivy League schools. How can I best showcase my artistic achievements in m …

a year ago

Would a 1400 SAT score be sufficient for Ivy League schools?

Hi everyone! I recently got my SAT results and scored a 1400. I'm planning on applying to some Ivy League schools but am unsure if my score is strong enough. Should I retake the test or focus on other …

a year ago

What is a good SAT/ACT score for college admissions?

Hey there! I'm a high school junior, and I've been trying to figure out what a good SAT/ACT score is for college admissions. Is there a specific score that colleges look for, or does it vary depending …

a year ago

What are some common college essay clichés to avoid?

Hey guys, I've heard that some topics are overused in college essays, and I want to avoid clichés. What are some examples of common clichés so I can steer clear of them in my writing? Thanks in advanc …

a year ago

How can I make my application stand out if I'm from an overrepresented demographic?

Hey everyone, I'm a high school junior, and I'm worried that my demographic is overrepresented in college admissions. How can I make my application stand out and show my unique qualities, even if I co …

a year ago

Any tips on getting letters of recommendation?

Hi all! I'm a junior and I know that getting strong letters of recommendation is important for college applications. I was wondering if anyone has any tips on how to approach teachers and ask for a le …

a year ago

Explaining bad grades to colleges?

Hi everyone, so I'm in the process of applying to colleges, and I have a bit of a problem. I had a really rough sophomore year, both academically and personally. This resulted in lower than average gr …

a year ago

Should I attend a college fair?

Hello! I'm a high school junior and I'm considering attending a college fair in my area. Is it worth going? What can I expect and what should I ask the college representatives? I'd appreciate any advi …

a year ago

How selective are summer programs for high school students?

Hi there, I'm considering applying to summer programs like the Stanford High School Summer College or the Harvard Summer School. How competitive are these programs? Do they require anything special in …

a year ago

What is a good SAT or ACT score for top colleges?

Hello! I'm a junior and I'm planning to take the SAT or ACT soon. I'm wondering what scores are considered good for top colleges. I know it varies, but can anyone give me a general idea of what I shou …

a year ago

Can I get a student loan if my high school grades aren't the best?

I'm planning to attend college next year, and I know I'll need a student loan to cover the costs. Do bad high school grades affect my ability to get a loan, or are there other factors lenders consider …

a year ago

Is Penn State considered a research-intensive university?

Hello all! I'm thinking about applying to Penn State, and I wanted to know if they are known for being a research university. If they are, would this provide me with more opportunities to get involved …

a year 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.