CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Hey there, I'm a junior and I've noticed that a lot of colleges are going test-optional. Are standardized test scores still important in the college admissions process, or should I focus on other part …

Hi everyone! I've heard a lot about the Common App and I'm considering using it for my college applications. What are the benefits of applying through the Common App and is it a good option for me? Th …

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I'm wondering how many extracurriculars I should have on my college applications. Is there a certain number that colleges look for, or is it more about quality over quantity …

Hello, everyone! I've read that some college admissions officers look for a 'spike' or a specific talent/interest in applicants. I have a variety of interests but don't really have a standout skill. W …

Hi there! I'm a high school junior getting ready to start working on my college application essays. I'm not sure what to write about or what colleges are looking for in these essays. Can anyone give m …

Hi all! I'm a junior and I'm interested in showing my top choice college that I'm really excited about the possibility of attending. However, I'm unable to visit the campus. What are some other ways I …

Hey guys, I faced some challenges during high school that affected my grades and extracurricular involvement. How can I explain these obstacles to colleges during the application process without sound …

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I've heard that some colleges might look at applicants' social media profiles during the admissions process. Is this true, and if so, what should I be aware of when it c …

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I'm trying to decide on my classes for next year. I want to challenge myself, but I'm worried that if I take harder classes, my grades might suffer. Do colleges prefer to …

Hi all, I recently took the SAT/ACT and I'm not satisfied with my scores. Should I retake the test to try and get a better score, or should I focus on other aspects of my college applications? Thanks …

Hello, I'm a junior and I want to create an activities resume to showcase my extracurricular involvement and achievements. What should I include in this resume, and how should I format it? Thanks in a …

Hi everyone, I'm a junior and I've been researching financial aid for college. Should I still apply for financial aid even if I don't think I'll qualify? Is there any harm in applying? Thanks for any …

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I'm currently taking a few AP classes. I'm wondering how much AP scores matter in the college application process. Should I be worried if I don't get a 5 on all of my exa …

Hey, I'm a high school junior, and I'm starting to think about what I want to study in college. I have a few interests, but I'm not sure what I should put down as my intended major on my college appli …

Hi everyone! I'm trying to create a balanced college list, but I'm not sure how many safety, target, and reach schools I should apply to. How did you decide on the right balance, and what advice do yo …

Hi everyone! I'm a junior in high school, and I'm starting to think about the college application process. I want to make sure I have a strong application, but I'm not sure where to start. What are so …

Hey everyone! I've heard that having a 'hook' can really help your chances of getting into a top college. How important is it to have a hook, and what are some examples of hooks? Is it necessary to ha …

Hi everyone, I'm a junior and I've taken a few AP exams already. I'm wondering if I should submit my AP scores to colleges when I apply. Does it make a difference in the admissions process, and are th …

Hi there, I'm a high school junior and I've heard that colleges value demonstrated leadership in applicants. How important is it to show leadership in extracurricular activities, and how can I showcas …

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I keep hearing people talk about the Common App. Can someone explain what it is and how it works? Is it required for all colleges? Thanks in advance!