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CollegeVine Expert FAQ

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


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

How early should I start preparing for my college applications?

Hi! I'm currently a junior, and I want to make sure I'm on track for the college application process. When should I start preparing things like my personal statement, letters of recommendation, and su …

a year ago

Do colleges look at weighted or unweighted GPA?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior in high school, and I'm trying to get a better understanding of how colleges evaluate GPA. My school calculates both a weighted and unweighted GPA, and I'm not sure which one …

a year ago

How do I know if a college's social scene is right for me?

Hey guys! I'm a junior and I'm starting to think about the social aspect of college. How can I determine if a college's social scene is a good fit for me? Are there any specific things I should look f …

a year ago

Is it worth retaking the SAT/ACT if I'm only a few points below my target score?

Hey guys, I recently got my SAT scores back and I'm just a few points below my target score. I'm wondering if it's worth the time and effort to retake the test, or if I should focus on other aspects o …

a year ago

What should I expect during a college campus visit?

Hi collegevine community! I'm a high school junior and I'm planning to visit some college campuses soon. I want to make the most of my visits and get a good feel for each school. What should I expect …

a year ago

Do I need to have a specific career goal in mind when applying to college?

Hello! I'm a junior in high school, and I've been feeling a bit lost when it comes to choosing a major or career path. I have a few interests, but I'm not sure what I want to do for a living yet. Is i …

a year ago

Do colleges really read the 'additional information' section on applications?

Hey, I wanted to know if colleges actually read the 'additional information' section on applications. I have a few things I want to explain (like a grade dip during sophomore year), but I'm not sure i …

a year ago

Should I consider applying to colleges with rolling admissions?

Hello! I'm a junior and I've been researching different colleges and their application processes. I've come across some schools with rolling admissions and I'm wondering if I should consider applying …

a year ago

What should I know about applying to out-of-state colleges?

Hi everyone, I'm considering applying to some out-of-state colleges, but I'm not sure what to expect. Are there any unique challenges or benefits I should be aware of? Thanks in advance for your advic …

a year ago

What resources are available for low-income students during the college application process?

Hey, I'm a low-income student and I'm worried about the costs associated with applying to college (like application fees and test prep). Are there any resources or programs available to help low-incom …

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.