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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.


What PSAT score is required for National Merit consideration?

Hey everyone, I just got my PSAT score back, and I'm sitting on a 1460. I'm really aiming for National Merit recognition, but I'm not sure if this score is in the ballpark. What's the typical cutoff, …

a year ago

Can I integrate my own creative writing, like a short story, into my college essay?

Hey folks, I've been toying with the idea of using a personal short story as the central piece of my college essay. It's a bit out there, but I think it's pretty reflective of my creativity and writin …

a year ago

When do PSAT/NMSQT scores generally get released?

Hey, does anyone know when the PSAT/NMSQT scores are typically released? I took the test this October and I'm kind of eager to see how I did. Also, how will I be notified about my scores? Do they mail …

a year ago

How significant is the PSAT for college admissions?

Just a little bit stressed about balancing my prep for standardized tests. Should I be investing a lot of time into preparing for the PSAT or is it not that important in the grand scheme of college ad …

a year ago

How high can you score on the PSAT?

As I'm prepping for the PSAT, I'm wondering what the highest score possible is? Just want to set a realistic goal for myself. Can someone break down the scoring system a bit for me? Thanks!

a year ago

Formatting the Common App Essay: What are the rules?

Could use some advice here. When it comes to formatting for the Common App essay, are there specific requirements I should follow? Like margins, font size, spacing? Or is it pretty much open to whatev …

a year ago

When do we need to submit the Common App essay by?

So, I'm working out my schedule and I need to know—is the Common App essay due at the same time as the application itself, or is there a separate deadline?

a year ago

Is a 1050 on the PSAT a decent score for a junior?

Hey guys, I recently got my PSAT scores back, and I’m sitting at a 1050. I know it’s not the highest score out there, but I'm wondering if it's considered decent? How does it compare to the national a …

a year ago

Do formula sheets come with the PSAT, or should I memorize everything?

I'm in the midst of prepping for the PSAT and I heard mixed things about formula sheets being provided during the test. Does the PSAT give you formulas, or do I need to memorize all of them beforehand …

a year ago

College essay in a scientific procedure layout—cool or trying too hard?

I'm a massive science nerd and I was thinking of structuring my college essay like a lab report or a scientific procedure to highlight my passion for research. Do you guys think admissions officers wo …

a year ago

How can I improve my PSAT score?

I just got my PSAT score and it's lower than I hoped for. I plan to retake it and I'm aiming for a significant boost. What are some effective study methods or resources that could help me improve?

a year ago

Is a PSAT score of 1460 considered competitive?

Hey everyone, I just got my PSAT score back and it's a 1460. I'm pretty happy with it, but I'm wondering, is this score competitive for things like National Merit Scholarships? What kind of SAT score …

a year ago

Would a college essay about Taylor Swift be off-putting?

Taylor Swift's music has been influential in my life, seriously speaking. It's tempting to write my essay on that influence but I'm worried it might come across as unprofessional or too fangirlish. Co …

a year ago

Are essays a major factor in college admissions decisions?

Hello peeps, I've been hearing a lot about how crucial essays are for the college app. Is that really true? How much do essays actually impact the admission decision, especially at top schools?

a year ago

How to Remove a Recommender on Common App?

In a bit of a pickle here... I've had a change of heart about one of my recommenders. Anyone know how to remove a recommender from my Common App after I've already invited them? Will they be notified …

a year ago

PSAT Score for National Merit: What's the cutoff?

I've heard the PSAT can qualify you for National Merit scholarships, but what score do you actually need on the PSAT to be considered? Does it differ by state or is it a national standard?

a year ago

Is Minecraft a good topic for my college essay?

Hey guys, I've spent a lot of time playing Minecraft and even learned about teamwork and problem-solving through the game. I was wondering, could this be a good topic for my college essay? Would admis …

a year ago

Is a 1090 PSAT score good enough or should I be concerned?

Feeling slightly stressed out here... I scored a 1090 on the PSAT and not sure if that's solid. Can anyone share what scores are typically competitive for college admissions? What's a good improvement …

a year ago

Is there a 'high score' threshold for the PSAT that I should be aware of?

So, I just got my PSAT scores back, and I'm struggling to understand where I stand. What's considered a high score on the PSAT, and how will colleges view it if it's part of my application?

a year ago

Tips for selecting the best Common App essay prompt?

I'm stuck and could really use some help. How did you guys decide on which Common App essay prompt to go with? I'm a junior trying to get a head start on my applications and want to make sure I pick a …

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.