CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Hi all, I've heard that AP tests are curved to some degree but I'm not entirely sure how it works. Can someone explain how the curving process works for AP exams? Thanks!

I'm considering taking a course pass/fail next semester, but I'm worried it might look bad on my transcript when I apply to colleges. What do you guys think, does it hurt my chances or is it not a big …

Hello! What's the vibe at High Rise 5 in Cornell University? I might be living there next year and would appreciate any insights about the dorm, facilities, and overall living experience.

Hi everyone! I'm working on my college applications and plan to major in engineering. Does anyone have any tips or resources for finding good engineering essay examples to help me brainstorm and get a …

I just got waitlisted at Harvard and I want to write a letter to show my continued interest. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to include or how to format it? Thanks in advance!

I've been working on my application for Columbia and I need to write a diversity essay. Any tips or advice on how to approach this? What do they look for in terms of content and style? Thanks in advan …

Quick question, y'all. My older sibling is currently in college and I'm going to apply this year. Does having a sibling in college help in any way? Do colleges take this into consideration?

Hey guys, I'm in the process of gathering my letters of recommendation, and I'm curious about how important these letters actually are for college admissions. How much do they really matter?

I have a pretty solid GPA but my SAT score is lower than I'd like. How much will my lower SAT score impact my college applications? Is there anything I can do to make up for it?

Hi! Given my current situation, I was wondering if there are any online service hour opportunities available for high school students like me. If so, where can I find them and sign up?

I'm planning on going to law school after college, and I want to choose a major that will help me excel in that field. Any recommendations for majors that would provide a strong foundation for a legal …

Hey everybody! I'm working on my NYU application and I'm struggling a bit with the writing supplement part. Does anyone have any advice for making it stand out? What do they usually look for in a grea …

I've been seeing some references to 'Ivy League plus' schools lately. What are these schools, and how do they differ from Ivy League schools? Is it worth considering these schools in my college search …

I'm starting my application process for University of Maryland. Do they track demonstrated interest like attending college visits, info sessions, and such? Asking so I can plan accordingly.

I'm passionate about food and cooking, and I'm considering writing my Common App essay about it. What do you think? Would it be seen as a unique or overused topic, and how can I make it stand out to a …

Hi everyone, I'm a senior in California and I was wondering if anyone knows of any notable California-specific scholarships I should be looking into? I want to minimize my student loan debt and I'm ma …

Hey guys! I'm trying to figure out whether I should take Multivariable Calculus or Linear Algebra during my senior year. Which one do you think is more beneficial for college and future career prospec …

Hey everyone, I'm really looking to improve my PSAT math skills. Any tips or resources you'd recommend for effective PSAT math practice?

Hey! I've been on my school's track and cross country team since freshman year, and it's really been a transformative experience for me. I want to share this journey in my college essay, but I'm havin …

Hello everyone! I'm a DACA student and I'm looking for scholarships to help fund my college education. Are there any well-known scholarships for DACA students? Any guidance would be greatly appreciate …