CollegeVine Expert FAQ

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


Is it better to take more AP classes or focus on extracurriculars?

Hi there! I'm a junior and I'm trying to decide whether I should take more AP classes next year or focus on my extracurriculars. I want to be competitive for college admissions, but I'm not sure which …

a year ago

Do all colleges require an application fee?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior starting to research colleges, and I've noticed that many of them require an application fee. Do all colleges require this, or are there some that don't? Also, ar …

a year ago

How much does financial aid factor into college admissions decisions?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior, and I'm a bit stressed about paying for college. I'm wondering if applying for financial aid will affect my chances of getting accepted. CollegeVine, can you pro …

a year ago

How important is it to have a 'dream' college?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I've been hearing a lot about people having a 'dream' college that they're set on attending. Is it important for me to have a dream college or is it better to keep my opt …

a year ago

What should I expect during a college interview?

Hi all, I'm nervous about the prospect of college interviews. What types of questions should I expect, and do you have any tips for preparing? Thanks in advance for your help!

a year ago

Can I still get into a good college with a low SAT score?

Hi friends! So, I'm a junior in high school and I'm a bit stressed about my SAT score. I didn't do as well as I'd hoped, and I'm worried that it might hurt my chances of getting into a good college. I …

a year ago

Should I apply early decision or regular decision to college?

Hello! I'm a high school junior, and I'm wondering whether I should apply early decision or regular decision to my top-choice college. What are the pros and cons of each? Would love to hear your thoug …

a year ago

What are some tips for building a strong college application?

Hey guys! I'm a junior and I want to make sure my college application is as strong as possible. Can anyone offer some tips or advice on what I should focus on to build a strong application? What do co …

a year ago

Is it worth it to apply to colleges with low acceptance rates?

Hello everyone! I'm a junior in high school and I'm considering applying to some colleges with low acceptance rates. Is it worth it to apply, or should I focus on schools with higher acceptance rates? …

a year ago

What are the best resources for college application essay prompts?

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I want to start working on my college application essays. Where can I find the latest essay prompts, and are there any resources that can help me brainstorm and write compel …

a year ago

How important are standardized test scores in college admissions?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I've been stressing about my SAT and ACT scores. I know they're just one part of my application, but I'm not sure how much weight they hold in the admissions process. Ca …

a year ago

Are college admissions interviews important?

Hey everyone! I've heard that some colleges offer interviews as part of the admissions process, but I'm not sure how important they are. Can someone explain the purpose of these interviews and how muc …

a year ago

What factors do colleges consider when awarding merit scholarships?

Hey guys! I'm hoping to qualify for some merit scholarships to help pay for college. What factors do colleges typically consider when awarding these scholarships? Are there any specific things I shoul …

a year ago

Is it better to apply to college as undecided or with a specific major?

Hi everyone! I've heard mixed opinions about whether it's better to apply as undecided or with a specific major. Does choosing a major affect my chances of getting into a school? Should I apply as und …

a year ago

Will I be at a disadvantage if I haven't taken many AP classes?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior and I'm starting to get a little stressed about college applications. So far, I've only taken two AP classes, and I'm worried that not having more might hurt my c …

a year ago

How can I make my application stand out to selective colleges?

I'm applying to some highly selective schools, and I'm trying to figure out what I can do to make my application stand out. Are there any specific tips or strategies for getting noticed by top college …

a year ago

Should I retake the SAT if I already have a good score?

Hi everyone! I recently received my SAT scores, and I got a 1450. I'm pretty happy with my score, but I'm wondering if I should retake it to try and get an even higher score. Would it be worth it, or …

a year ago

Can I submit additional materials (like artwork or writing samples) with my college application?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior who's passionate about art and writing, and I'm wondering if it's possible to submit additional materials with my college application to showcase my talents. If so, how do I …

a year ago

How can I make my Common App essay stand out?

Hi everyone! I'm working on my Common App essay, and I want to make sure it stands out among all the other applicants. Any tips on how to make my essay unique and memorable? I'd really appreciate your …

a year ago

How important is demonstrated leadership in college applications?

Hey guys! I've been told that colleges like to see leadership roles on applications. How important is it to be a leader in a club or organization? Is it worth it to pursue leadership roles even if it …

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.