College Apps

Hey there, future college students! Heard some rumblings about the PSAT (also called the PSAT/NMSQT, or Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)? It might sound fancy, but it’s basically a practice test for the SAT, the big college entrance exam, with some awesome perks thrown in. Let’s break it down.

Many college applications require standardized test scores, but most offer students a choice: ACT or SAT. Some students choose to take both tests, but that’s not an option for everyone. After all, testing can be time-consuming and expensive — especially once you factor in tutoring services and practice materials. So, how do you decide to take the ACT vs. SAT? While the two tests serve the same function, they’re vastly different. Some students who earn top marks on the SAT flunk the ACT and vice versa. When college acceptance can depend on your scores, it’s important to choose wisely. Here’s how to tell which test is right for you.

Applying early for college could make it easier to get into your top-choice school. But how do you know which deadline to target to improve your chances? It starts with understanding the different types of college application deadlines and decision plans. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice.

An outstanding college essay can be the x-factor that gets you accepted to the school of your choice. The Common Application, with its variety of essay prompts, can help you showcase your personality, achievements, and aspirations. Here are our best strategies to select and answer the Common App essay questions for the 2024-2025 admissions year.

If you’re one of the many smart, hard-working students who don’t test well, you might hear the words “test-optional” and imagine the sound of angels singing. But what is test-optional, really? Should you still submit SAT or ACT scores even if a school doesn’t require them? Will admissions officers evaluate you differently if you don’t have standardized test scores? Here’s what you need to know.

As you navigate the college application process, you may have heard the term “test-optional” in relation to SAT or ACT scores. Test-optional admissions policies allow students to choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. Going Merry has compiled answers to common questions that students and parents have on how test-optional policies work, and how they impact you.

If you’re a high school student considering your next step, traditional four-year colleges are probably on your radar. Junior colleges can be a great place to start your higher education. They’re affordable, accessible, and most allow you to transfer your credits to four-year universities. Before you decide where to pursue your education, take a closer look at community colleges and how they stack up against four-year institutions.

Congratulations! You’ve made it through the rigor of junior year. Now, it’s onto the last year of high school. Senior year is filled with hard work, a healthy dose of nostalgia, and a lot of preparation if you plan to attend college. Before you focus on making memories during those final weeks of high school, you’ll have a long to-do list to complete. To help you get a jumpstart, we’ve put together 21 ways to get organized over the summer so you can take on senior year with confidence.

The earlier you can begin conversations with your child about college, the less stress you and your child will experience along the way. For many prospective students, having parental involvement in the application process may be just the edge they need. Striking the right balance between helicopter parent and helpful parent is tough – and the last thing you want to do before you send your child off to college is alienate them. We’re here to help.

Preparing for college can seem even more confusing at a time like this when schools are practicing distance learning and you can’t visit a counselor in person. Luckily, there are plenty of online resources, including virtual meetings, virtual tours, and this college readiness checklist to help you prepare for the next chapter in your academic career.

College is the time to learn about who you are and what you want to do. Many students attending community college plan to transfer to a four-year anniversary after completing their associate’s degree. This setup is an easy way to save on your tuition bill! But how do you jump-start your transfer process and use your credits?