Top College Application Tips for 2024

I recently had a great discussion about the current state of college admission with test prep expert Laura Heslin Whitmore of Strategic Test Prep. We spoke about all things related to the college application and have some great advice for students and their families. Check out the video for top college application tips for 2024 related to:

• Score choice vs sending all scores

• Should you go test-optional?

• Early Action vs Early Decision and Regular Decision

• Personal statement/college essay topics

• Extracurricular activities and how to shape your resume

• Who, how and when to ask for recommendation letters

• What to do if your application is deferred or you are waitlisted

• FAFSA

• The importance of campus visits

• Is demonstrated interest important?

  and so much more!

Stay tuned for our next post all about the digital SAT and how to prep!

Guide to English Proficiency Tests for College Applications

English proficiency tests could be an application requirement if you are an international student, non-native English speaker or attending a school which is not in English and/or in an English-speaking country. With several options available, it's important to understand the different tests and admissions requirements. In this guide, we'll give you a quick breakdown of what you need to know about English proficiency tests for college applications.

1. Understanding the Importance of English Proficiency Tests: English proficiency tests are a way for colleges and universities to assess a student’s ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. These tests evaluate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Even if you have taken an SAT, hold a passport to an English speaking country, or have attended a school with some coursework in English, colleges need a way to more thoroughly evaluate your English proficiency before offering you an acceptance and may require an English test.

2. Researching English Proficiency Requirements:  As you are planning your college applications, it is important to research the policies at each of your colleges and allow time to meet testing requirements before your application deadlines. The requirements vary significantly by college and the student’s background. For example, one college may require test scores from an American student at a bilingual school abroad, while another may not. One college may accept any of the six English proficiency tests listed below, while another may only accept a few of them. Some colleges accept the TOEFL iBT home version while others only accept the TOEFL taken at a test center. Do your research to avoid missing an important part of your application and having to take a last- minute test. Also, while many colleges do not have minimum test scores required, they often publish preferred scores. Take a look at those as you prepare for your tests and evaluate your scores.

3. English Proficiency Tests for College Applications:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): This is the most common English test taken for US college admissions with more than 90% of US colleges accepting it and many international universities too. The TOEFL assesses English proficiency through reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections. There is an in-person option at official test centers and a home version. It is only available as a computer based test. The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. The test now takes less than 2 hours and results are usually available within 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): IELTS is a UK based test, but accepted by more than 3,000 colleges in the US. It is the second most common English proficiency test submitted to US colleges. IELTS evaluates language proficiency through listening, reading, writing, and speaking components. The Academic version is primarily available at official test centers, but is available in some regions as a home version as well. It is available on paper and computer. The Speaking section is completed separately with a trained IELTS examiner. The total test time is around 2 hours 45 min and results are usually available in 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): PTE Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test accepted by more than 1200 US colleges. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and provides rapid results (usually within 48 hours). The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. It can only be taken at official test centers and total test time is under 2 hours. Tests are scored entirely via computer.

• Duolingo English Test: Emerging as a popular alternative due to the flexibility of taking the test online at any time, the Duolingo English Test evaluates language proficiency through an adaptive computer-based format. It is now accepted by more than 1700 US colleges. It assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and is accepted by an increasing number of colleges. The testing session is recorded and verified by a Duolingo proctor then scored by a computer and the results are available within 48 hours. Total test time is one hour.

•  iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency): Also chosen because of its flexibility with on-demand testing and quick score turnaround, iTEP offers a comprehensive assessment of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. It is currently accepted by more than 300 colleges in the US. It is available in-person or at home. The speaking and writing sections are graded by humans. The test takes 90 minutes and scores are available within 24 hours.

• Cambridge:  Accepted by more than 100 US colleges, the Cambridge exams are the longest and most thorough. Cambridge English exams are available at testing locations around the world and can be taken on paper or computer. Students must choose which level of test they will take, but typically only the C1 or C2 are accepted for university admission. The Speaking section is taken face to face with an examiner. The tests take approximately 4 hours and results are available in 2-3 weeks.

4. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Test:

• College Requirements: Research the English proficiency requirements of the colleges and universities you're applying to and choose a test that meets their criteria.

• Test Format: Consider your preferences and strengths when selecting between test center and home-based tests. Also consider the format of the test. Do you prefer recording your own answers or speaking with a human? Do you prefer a paper-based test or computer? Although paper is less common, it is still available for some tests.

• Accessibility and Convenience: Choose a test that is widely available in your region and offers convenient test dates and locations. Some tests are not available in certain regions at all. Also consider that some tests require reserving your spot weeks or even months in advance.

• Timing:  Consider how long the test results take and how much time it takes to get those results sent to colleges. Do you plan on taking the test more than once? It is not possible to retake some of the tests within a short timeframe. Take a look at your college application timeline and consider how much time you need to have your scores available by application deadlines. Also remember that test scores are only valid for a certain amount of time depending on which test you take and which college you are applying to.

5. Preparation for English Proficiency Tests:

• Familiarize yourself with the test format, structure, and question types before test day.

• Make use of free test prep materials provided by most of the testing companies themselves.

• Consider getting additional tutoring or test prep help if needed.

Do your research and plan ahead! Selecting the right English proficiency test and adequately preparing for it are important steps in your college application journey. Contact us for guidance on mapping out your college plan and deciding which test is right for you.

Test Optional: Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

In the ever-evolving landscape of college admissions, one question continues to perplex students, parents AND counselors: Should students take the SAT? Last summer, more than 1900 colleges were test optional, test-free or test-blind. In 2024, we have already seen several selective universities, including MIT, Cornell, Yale and Brown announce that they will once again require test scores of some sort (each policy is frustratingly different or vague) for the next application year. Many others have stated they will not go back to requiring test scores yet, if ever, but there is still the potential for more colleges to return to requiring test scores. Frustratingly, it is difficult to understand how the test-optional schools are using test scores and what the effects of submitting or not submitting scores have on applications. So, should students still take a test? The answer depends on various factors, including individual circumstances, college preferences, and future academic goals. Unfortunately, the answer is not as straightforward as it once was.

First and foremost, students should assess the requirements and preferences of the colleges to which they plan to apply. Many colleges have published data on what % of past accepted students submitted test scores and what the average test scores were. Is the university accepting more students who submit test scores than not? Looking at recent data, it is clear that many selective universities are accepting students who submitted test scores at a higher rate than those who did not. At some schools such as GA Tech and Emory, the early acceptance rate of students who submitted test scores this year was double that of students who did not. Students should research the admissions policies and data of the schools on their list. Also, take into consideration that these policies seem to be changing a lot right now, it may be safest to plan on testing if you are aiming at highly selective universities.

Another factor to take into consideration is if SAT or ACT scores are required to be eligible for certain scholarships. For example, students applying for Florida Bright Futures or Louisiana’s TOPS award are required to have certain SAT and ACT scores to be eligible for the state scholarship. Some universities also have generous merit scholarships when students have a combination of a certain GPA and test scores such as the University of Mississippi and Texas Tech. If obtaining a merit scholarship is of great importance to you, focusing on getting a high SAT or ACT score could be helpful.

Furthermore, students should consider their own academic strengths and weaknesses. For some students, standardized tests like the SAT provide an opportunity to showcase their abilities and distinguish themselves from other applicants. Some students may be lacking in other areas of their application and the test score could be a highlight. On the other hand, students who struggle with standardized testing or do not score well may find that their talents are better reflected in other aspects of their application, such as grades, extracurricular activities, and essays.

Additionally, students should weigh the potential benefits of taking a test against the challenges and stress associated with preparing for and taking the exam. While a high SAT score can bolster an application, it's essential to consider whether the time and resources invested in test preparation could be better spent on other endeavors, such as pursuing academic interests, engaging in community service, or cultivating leadership skills. When making testing plans, I discuss how much time is realistic for my students to prepare for the tests and how they truly feel about testing before we schedule future SAT or ACT sittings. If I find that a student does not have time or will not dedicate the time to truly prepare for the tests, then it is not worth taking the test multiple times.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to test is a highly personal one, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. While standardized testing remains a significant factor in the college admissions process for many students, its importance is evolving in light of changing policies and perspectives. By carefully weighing the pros and cons and considering their unique circumstances, students can make informed decisions that align with their goals. So, to SAT or not to SAT? There is no simple answer. At ACM, we help students weigh the pros and cons of testing and map out a testing plan to meet their goals.

Summer College Planning: A Guide for Rising Seniors

For rising seniors, summer represents a time of exploration, relaxation, and, importantly, college planning. With application deadlines on the horizon, the summer months are an opportunity for seniors to map out their college application plan and gather and complete most of the application materials. Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating summer college planning for rising seniors:

1. Reflect and Set Goals: Take the time to reflect on your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal interests. What are your strengths, passions, and aspirations? Set clear goals for your college application process. Whether it's aiming for specific schools, pursuing certain academic programs, or securing scholarships, having defined objectives will help guide your efforts.

2. Research Colleges: Use this free time to truly research potential colleges and universities that align with your academic and personal preferences. Consider factors such as location, size, academic programs, campus culture, and financial aid offerings. Create a list of reach, target, and safety schools to ensure a balanced application strategy.

3. Visit Colleges (in person or virtually): While college campuses are a bit sleepy during the summer with most students on break, an in-person visit is still your best option to get to know the school if possible! Try to tie in some campus visits while mapping out your family summer vacation plans. For the colleges you are unable to physically visit, take advantage of online information sessions and virtual tours. Read my tips for remote campus visits here.

4. Finalize Standardized Testing Plans: Determine whether you need to take or retake standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT and/or English proficiency exams. Utilize the summer months to review test materials, enroll in test prep courses, or schedule exam dates. Remember that if you are applying Early Decision or Early Action, the October test date will be the latest possible for you to have your scores in time. Don’t wait until the last minute!

5. Write College Application Essays: The Common Application announced that their essay prompts for the 2024-25 application year will remain unchanged from the past year. This means you have plenty of time to brainstorm and write your best essay. Colleges which require additional essays may not confirm them until later in the summer, but once your college list is finalized, you should begin creating a list of what supplemental essays are needed and get started on them as soon as you can.

6. Explore Extracurricular Opportunities: Engage in meaningful summer activities that demonstrate your interests, leadership skills, and commitment. Whether it's volunteering, internships, research projects, or part-time employment, these experiences can enrich your college application and showcase your diverse talents. This is your last summer to explore your interests and add to your resume for college applications.

7. Review Financial Aid Options: Discuss the potential college costs and how you plan to pay for them with your family. Take a look at the net price calculators for some of your colleges to get a general idea of what the colleges on your list may cost. Familiarize yourself with the financial aid process and deadlines of your prospective colleges. Investigate scholarship opportunities and explore avenues for reducing the costs. Many independent scholarships are open for application over the summer, it is a great time to apply.

8. Stay Organized: Maintain a detailed calendar and checklist to track application deadlines, requirements, standardized test dates, and other important milestones. Break down tasks into manageable steps and allocate time each week to make progress.

By approaching summer college planning with clear goals and good organization and time management, rising seniors can prepare most of their college applications before senior year even begins. If you do need extra support, ACM College Consulting is ready to help you find colleges fit for YOU and kick off your applications. Limited space is available for rising seniors and the more time we have, the better - start now!

How to Apply for Florida Bright Futures

What is Bright Futures? How do you become eligible for the scholarship? If you are planning on or even considering attending college in Florida, you need to know this information and the earlier, the better. While there are 4 types of scholarships which are part of Florida Bright Futures Program, this information is focused on the 2 primary scholarships for students who plan on pursuing an undergraduate degree or certification at a college or university in Florida – the Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) and the Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS).

To be eligible for Bright Futures, students must:

• Be a Florida resident and US citizen or eligible non citizen

• Graduate from a Florida public high school or a registered Department of Education Private institution, earn a GED or complete an eligible Home Education program

• Meet high school college prep coursework requirements

• Be accepted to and enrolled at a Public or eligible private post-secondary institution in Florida

• Not have been convicted of or plead no contest to felony charges

• Meet official standardized test score and GPA requirements

• Complete 100 hours of volunteer service and/or paid work

• Have official transcripts sent from high school

• Complete the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) by Aug. 31 after senior year

Image from Bright Futures Handbook

The FAS scholarship is the highest level available to students and covers 100% of tuition and applicable fees at Florida public institutions. If a student chooses to attend an eligible private institution, they are given a comparable amount which could add up to approx. $6000.

The FMS scholarship is the second tier and covers 75% of tuition and applicable fees or 100% of an associates degree. It also covers a comparable amount at eligible private institutions.

To apply for Bright Futures, students must first complete the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA). This application typically opens on October 1 and must be completed by August 31 post graduation. After applying for the FFAA, the student will gain access to complete the Bright Futures application.

Students can send their test scores by simply requesting an official test score to be sent to any of the 12 Florida sate universities, state colleges or public high schools. Students have until August 31 post graduation to meet the testing requirements, which means completing testing by June 30. Scores can be superscored and students can take it as many times as needed to get the minimum required scores. Students can bypass the test score requirements if they complete an AICE or IB Diploma.

Service and work hours must be completed by high school graduation. To verify what activities meet the service hour requirements, students should speak to their high school counselors. Whatever the activity may be, the student must get the signed verification from the appropriate supervisor. Activities which typically count towards the service hours are volunteering for nonprofits, working on local political campaigns, or interning at local businesses. As of June 2022, paid work now counts towards the 100 hour requirement.

Students can complete their application any time after December, when they are able to officially enroll at one of the eligible post-secondary institutions. The funds will be distributed directly to the college. Students should ensure they keep their account updated with the institution they are attending as well as their service hours. They should also make sure their counselor sends their official transcripts.

Both levels of Bright Futures can be used for summer semester and depending on the college's programs, may be able to be used for study abroad. A common misconception is that the Bright Futures is a 'full ride'. However, it covers solely the tuition and some fees. unless a family has a 529. Families should not neglect to seek additional funding such as scholarships and other institutional and federal financial aid. Parents should follow all deadlines to file the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE where required in order to be eligible for other aid.

When families have a 529 Plan, the schools apply those funds first and then the Bright Futures. In this case, Bright Futures funds can be used for expenses other than standard tuition and fees. If there are funds left over, the school will usually give them back to the student to use for additional expenses.

Consider the requirements early as you go through high school and begin to complete the service hours, meet college prep course requirements, and prepare for standardized tests to ensure you do not miss out on these extra funds! Schedule a free consultation with us to discuss Bright Futures and your college search and applications.

How to Apply for Financial Aid in the US as an International Student

Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students seeking quality education and diverse experiences. However, the cost of attending a U.S. university can be a significant barrier for students no matter where they are from. In this blog post, we'll explore the process of applying for financial aid as an international student at U.S. universities.

Understanding Financial Aid Options

Before diving into the application process, it's important to understand the types of financial aid available for international students:

1.    Institutional Aid:  Aid which comes from the university itself, more common with private universities

Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic, athletic, artistic, or other achievements. They may cover part or all of tuition costs. Often, they do not require a separate application and are awarded based on the student’s general application for admission. These are VERY competitive and not offered by some top universities such as the Ivy League institutions.

Need-Based Aid: While international students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, many universities offer need-based aid to international students. This aid can come in the form of scholarships and grants which do not have to be repaid. This aid requires some form of application including details on the family’s income and financial resources.

2.     External Scholarships and Grants: There are numerous external organizations, foundations, and governments that offer scholarships and grants to international students studying in the U.S. These can be based on academic merit, field of study, country of origin, or other criteria.

Applying for Financial Aid

The application and policy for institutional aid varies significantly by university. Some universities do not offer need-based aid to international students at all, others such as Columbia or UChicago meet 100% of demonstrated need, and some colleges may offer both need and merit aid. It is important to thoroughly research the policies and requirements for each college before making the decision to apply there.

Colleges which offer need-based aid to international students will require the submission of either the CSS Profile, International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) or their own version of a financial aid application. This financial aid form is due with or shortly after the application for admission. These forms require information about the family income, assets and expenses. You will usually be required to upload proof such as tax returns and income statements translated to English in order to complete the applications. Begin working on these applications early enough to gather the required documents well ahead of the stated deadlines.

It is common policy that if a student does not apply for financial aid for their first year, they are ineligible for need-based aid for the following years. So if your family truly needs aid, make sure you complete all forms accurately and ON TIME before the student’s first year of college.

Important Questions to Consider

1.     Will applying for aid affect your chances of admission?

2.     Are there other colleges which would give you more aid?

3.     Are there other colleges which are great fits and cost less overall?

4.     Can students get a job and and/or manage a job while attending college?

While the cost of studying in the U.S. can be daunting for international students, there are various financial aid options available to help make education more accessible. By researching opportunities, preparing strong applications, and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of receiving the financial support you need. This is an important issue I help my students and their families navigate as we work together on their college search and applications. If you have questions about applying to US colleges as an international student, schedule a free intro meeting with me.

Preparing for the New Digital SAT: Top Tips for Success

Are you ready for the new digital SAT? Ensure you're fully prepared with these essential tips and free digital SAT practice resources.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Digital Format: Ace the digital interface by practicing with official College Board tests online. Navigate through the various formats of questions, test out built in tools including the Desmos calculator and answer eliminator, and get comfortable with the digital environment.

2. Employ Test-Taking Strategies: Develop tactics for tackling different question types, such as process of elimination and strategic marking. Practice these strategies during your study sessions and make use of the new built-in tools.

3. Practice Time Management: As with the paper format, time is of the essence in the digital SAT. Hone your time management skills by practicing pacing during mock tests, ensuring you complete each section within the allocated time. The digital SAT has a great tool which allows you to mark questions to return to later. If you get stuck, you may benefit from returning to the questions in the module later if you have extra time.

4. Take full Practice Tests: Take at least one to get used to the format and timing. I recommend taking several over the course of a few months as you prepare. You can use your results to focus on your areas of weakness and get additional test prep help if needed.

5. Simulate Test Conditions: Replicate the actual testing environment during practice tests. Find a quiet space, time yourself strictly, and eliminate distractions.

6. Make use of FREE Online Digital SAT Prep Resources: The College Board has a new app called Bluebook, which the student will also use to take the official test. Within the app are several free full practice tests and an untimed version to explore. Khan Academy, College Board’s official test prep partner has a lot of free practice material online. Now that the first Digital SATs have been completed, it is recommended that student’s use practice tests 4-6 in the Bluebook app to prepare as they represent the difficulty of the new test more accurately than the previous practice tests. Also, several test prep companies offer free practice tests and strategy sessions (see below).

7. Prioritize Self-Care: Don't overlook self-care during SAT prep. Ensure you are getting adequate sleep and nourishment to be in your best condition for testing day. If you are feeling overly stressed about the test, talk to someone about possible solutions. And last but not least, don’t hyperfocus on the SAT. You are more than a test score and the right colleges will see that! Many colleges will remain test-optional for the 2024-25 application year so you can still choose not to use your scores at all.

By following these tips and dedicating consistent time and effort to your SAT preparation, you can improve your chances of success on the digital SAT. Good luck!

Free Digital SAT Prep Resources:

Applerouth – Full length tests and strategy sessions - sign up now!

Khan Academy – Self-paced lessons and practice questions

https://www.khanacademy.org/digital-sat

College Board – Download the Bluebook app for practice tests
 https://bluebook.app.collegeboard.org/

Strategic Test Prep – Great strategy and informational videos

https://www.youtube.com/@StrategicTestPrep/videos

What to Do if You’ve Been Deferred

Unfortunately, deferrals are becoming more common than ever as universities are receiving record numbers of early applicants. Instead of deferring a select number of students who were not accepted, some universities are simply deferring all of them. Georgetown tells students explicitly on their website that if they are not admitted in Early Action, they will be deferred. USC announced this week that they deferred ALL 38,000+ unaccepted students from the early action pool.

Receiving a college admission deferral can be disheartening, especially when you've invested time and effort into crafting the perfect application. However, it's important to remember that a deferral is not a rejection but an opportunity to demonstrate improvements and your continued interest and commitment to the school.

Here are some tips to help you navigate this frustrating situation and increase your chances of ultimately securing admission.

1.     Understand the Decision: Take a deep breath and consider that a deferral is not a reflection of your worth or capabilities. Colleges defer applications for various reasons such as not wanting to turn town so many highly qualified students until they see the regular decision applications or trying to create a well-rounded class. View this as a chance to enhance your application and showcase your determination.

2.     Demonstrate Continued Interest: Show the college that you remain enthusiastic about attending by promptly confirming your continued interest. Write a thoughtful letter to the admissions office expressing your ongoing commitment, updating them on any relevant achievements or activities since your application, and reiterating why you believe the school is the perfect fit for you. You can also use this as a chance to visit the college if you haven’t already.

3.     Submit Additional Materials: Some colleges allow deferred applicants to submit additional materials, such as updated grades, new test scores, or letters of recommendation. If you've improved academically or achieved noteworthy accomplishments, absolutely share this information to strengthen your candidacy.

4.     Follow Instructions: Along with the deferral decision, colleges will send instructions for next steps. Often, this includes completing a form or submitting a letter of continued interest. However, sometimes schools specifically ask students NOT to send additional materials or have very strict guidelines on what to submit. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS. Do not waste their time by sending unwanted materials or repetitive emails.

5.     Explore Alternatives: While waiting for a final decision, explore other colleges and consider your backup options. It's crucial to have alternative plans in place although you may still be admitted to your first-choice school. Stay open-minded and evaluate other institutions that align with your academic and personal preferences.

6.     Stay Positive and Focused: It's natural to feel disappointed, but don't let a deferral derail your academic and personal pursuits. Focus on maintaining a positive mindset, continue working hard, and stay engaged in meaningful activities. A positive attitude can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and may even positively influence your future endeavors.

Being deferred from a college can be disappointing, but it's essential to approach the situation with resilience and a proactive mindset. Use the additional time to evaluate other options, strengthen your application, showcase your achievements, and demonstrate unwavering commitment. Remember, the college admission process is complex, and your journey doesn't end with a deferral or denial—keep pushing forward with determination and optimism. There are so many great options out there!

Tips for Remote Campus Visits

Choosing the right college is a monumental decision, and while the traditional campus visit is definitely the best option, it is not always possible. Working with international students, I have many families who are not able to make the trip to the US to tour campuses before making their college decision. Often, even if a student does have the opportunity to tour colleges, they don’t have the time or financial resources to visit all of the schools on their college list. Sometimes, the first time they set foot on campus is when they arrive for freshman orientation. While this is not ideal, there are many ways a student can get to know their future college without physically visiting. Exploring campuses virtually allows high school students to gather valuable insights and make informed decisions about their academic future. To make the most out of this unique experience, here are some tips for navigating remote campus visits.

1.     Create a Virtual Tour Checklist: Start by thoroughly researching the colleges you're interested in and create a checklist of elements you want to explore during your virtual tour. This could include academic buildings, dormitories, recreational areas, and any specific features that matter to you.

2.     Attend Virtual Information Sessions: Most colleges offer virtual information sessions that cover a range of topics, from academic programs to campus life. Attend as many sessions as you can to get a comprehensive understanding of what each college has to offer. Take notes during these sessions to help you remember key details.

3.     Engage in Virtual Q&A Sessions: Seize the opportunity to ask questions during live Q&A sessions. Whether it's about the admission process, financial aid, or student life, engaging with college representatives will provide you with valuable insights. Prepare a list of questions in advance to make the most of these interactive sessions.

4.     Connect with Current Students and Alumni: Many colleges arrange virtual meetings with current students or alumni. Take advantage of these sessions to gain authentic perspectives on campus life. Ask about their experiences, challenges, and what they love (and maybe hate) most about the college. You can also use LinkedIn to connect with alumni. This personal touch can be invaluable in making your decision.

5.     Utilize Social Media and Online Forums: Explore college social media pages, student groups, and online forums where current students share their experiences. Don’t be afraid to reach out to students on your own to get different opinions and more information. Many schools such as Bucknell and Chapman have student takeovers on Instagram to give real glimpses into student life. There are also plenty of YouTube and TikTok videos out there. Social media can provide endless insight into the day-to-day life of students, helping you understand the culture of each campus.

6.     Schedule One-on-One Virtual Meetings: If possible, schedule one-on-one virtual meetings with admission counselors or professors of interest. This personalized interaction can offer tailored information and address specific concerns you might have. It's also an excellent opportunity to make a connection and demonstrate interest.

7.     Investigate the Off-Campus: Getting to know the college town and surrounding area is also something to take into consideration. Take a look at online newspapers, social media pages and even Google Maps to research what is in the area, how the relationship between the university and town is, crime levels, and potential off campus housing and local entertainment options. Depending on the college location and campus life, the off-campus can be very important.

8.     Seek Out Online Campus Tours and Videos: Many colleges provide virtual campus tours and videos that offer a dynamic perspective of the campus. Explore these resources to get a sense of the atmosphere and layout. Some colleges such as Carnegie Mellon actually offer Live Virtual Tours with student ambassadors so you have a chance to ask questions and request views of certain places on campus.

9. Compare and Contrast: As you visit multiple campuses remotely (and live), create a system for comparing and contrasting each college. Consider factors such as academic programs, extracurricular activities, campus culture, and any unique features that stand out to YOU. This will help keep your thoughts organized as the details tend to run together after several visits.

While remote campus visits may not replicate the on-site experience entirely, they provide an invaluable opportunity for high school students to explore their college options. Even if you do have the opportunity to visit campus, these tips can help with your college search too. By actively engaging with virtual resources, attending sessions, and connecting with current students, you can gather the information needed to make an informed decision about your academic journey. Remember, each effort you make to engage with and research your potential colleges brings you one step closer to finding the college that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

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Additional Resources:

Travel and Leisure Best College Towns and Cities

Virtual Tours on Appily (YouVisit)

The College Tour - YouTube channel with real students and stories

Digital SAT Tips

The digital SAT has debuted internationally and will most likely remain the only form available for international students from now on. Many are a bit apprehensive after witnessing CollegeBoard’s struggles with digital AP exams in recent years, but so far the feedback has been mostly positive.

Here is a quick breakdown of the primary differences between the two test formats:

WHERE and WHEN:

The test is still required to be taken at a school or official test center. However, the possibility of more test dates and flexibility in test centers scheduling them may make it easier for students to find a test date that fits their schedule and location. For international students, this could make a big difference as their previous test dates and locations were more limited. Students will register for the test on the CollegeBoard site as they did previously, however the new schedule for Fall/Winter 2023-24 has not been released yet. Students who have signed up for the Spring/Summer dates at international sites will already have the digital format. The digital format will be implemented in the US starting Fall 2023 for PSAT and Spring 2024 for SAT.

COMPUTERS and CALCULATORS:

Students can bring their own tablets or laptops or they can use those provided at the test site. It is beneficial for the student to bring their own device as they will be more familiar with it and provided laptops are limited. Graphing calculators will also be built in to the test, so students who feel comfortable using those can leave their own at home. The Desmos calculator which is built in is a great tool for students who are familiar with it, but if they are not, it is recommended to bring their own. Students will still be provided scratch paper and can use a pen/pencil to work on solutions as needed.

Before test day, students need to download the Bluebook App to their testing device. They should make sure it is sucessfully installed and familiarize themselves with it.

VERBAL SECTION:

The verbal section of the SAT will now have much shorter passages, mostly just a few sentences, as they are limited to how much text will fit on a computer screen. Students will only answer a single question about a short passage and then move on to another entirely different one. It would be beneficial to do some practice questions to get used to the format.

ADAPTIVE TESTING:

A major change with the digital SAT is the new adaptive testing model. Now, students will face different sets of questions based on the accuracy of how they answered the first module of each section. There are two possible levels of questions the students will receive and the highest score possible on the SAT will be different based on which level of questions they get. You can read more about this model here. Don’t be alarmed, it is not a sudden switch to much more difficult questions if you get the higher level for your second module. There is still a balance in the difficulty of the questions. The test prep experts at Applerouth who have seen more of the new test have assured me that students actually have to get a lot of incorrect answers to get the ‘lower’ level of questions. It also shouldn’t be looked at as a disadvantage. Instead of having these students struggle and lose time with harder questions, they are able to focus their energy on questions more appropriate for their level. Everyone gets to take a shorter test and spend more time on each question with this new model.

NEW TOOLS:

There are a few tools available within the digital format that can definitely help students. Students could practice making use of these tools to test more efficiently. My favorite two are:

Answer Eliminator – a tool to eliminate answers students deem as incorrect from view so they can focus on the remaining answers

Question Flag – students can now flag questions within a section for further review later.

TEST PREP:

As the new format has not been out long, most test prep companies have not done a lot of updating to their materials. When searching for a test prep company, I definitely recommend asking them how they have adapted their materials. Many of the tutors and companies do not have experience with the new test or access to materials to prepare students for the digital SAT. However, the official CollegeBoard site now has digital SAT prep materials available for free. Also, Applerouth has done a great job of getting materials ready for digital SAT prep.

The international ACT has been digital for years and as with the paper format, it is much different than the SAT. Students should consider taking a practice test for both the ACT and SAT to decide which test is the best for them.