As an incoming college freshman, you probably have a lot of preconceived ideas about what college will be like. AP courses, college advising, television, your peers, and the internet probably have given you a good idea of what to expect on your first day of classes. Although all these sources may be a good foundation, here are some common misconceptions about college courses we have debunked.

Test-optional admissions allow students to apply to colleges without submitting standardized test scores, focusing instead on a more holistic review of their academic performance, extracurriculars, and personal achievements. This policy has gained traction, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it addresses inequities in access to testing and emphasizes equity in admissions. For parents and students, understanding these policies is critical to navigating the college application process effectively, including deciding whether test scores strengthen an application. By focusing on well-rounded preparation and leveraging strengths beyond test scores, students can showcase their potential in unique and meaningful ways.

A significant change to 529 savings plans now allows unused funds to be transferred into a Roth IRA without tax penalties, starting in 2024. This change helps families who have leftover money in their 529 plans but were previously limited in how they could use or withdraw it. However, there are specific requirements, such as the account being open for 15 years, and other rules to consider, like the annual Roth IRA contribution limit.

Key factors that reveal why private schools can offer surprising value and strong career outcomes.

ESAs provide support through companionship and can help ease anxiety, depression, and certain phobias. Before you rush to the nearest animal shelter or get your pet from home, you should be aware that there is a stringent process for qualifying for an ESA.

Becoming a student ambassador is a huge responsibility to take on. It is a leadership role that allows you to become a representative of your university. This opportunity builds your credibility and can be a great thing to add to your resume that may make you stand out.

This article compiles advice from chronically ill, disabled, and mentally ill individuals and applies that advice to the topic of college roommates. To learn more, talk to and learn from disabled people and disability advocates.

All of the exciting things are starting to happen! You have received your admissions letter in the mail. You have accepted your admissions decision and figured out your financial aid. Next up? The daunting task of deciding your living arrangements. First, you have to choose your physical living arrangements. Do you choose a dorm on campus or an off-campus apartment? We are sure you have read all about the benefits of living on campus in a dorm, and not only this, but most colleges require you to live on campus any where from one to two years. There is another issue at hand: how do you pick a roommate?

A guide to understanding and reducing the costs of applying to college.

Caring for your health in college proves challenging for many students—particularly those struggling to adjust to a new schedule and lifestyle away from home. Moving into adulthood, allowing physical and mental wellness to become a low priority can have adverse consequences.

Most people who have thought of applying to college, whether as a student or parent, have come across college rankings websites and magazines. The most familiar one is put out yearly by U.S. News and World Report1 (USNWR) but there are many others.

If you are applying for jobs, don't put off writing your cover letter. Be sure to use our template and example as guides!

College is an opportunity to debate, test your beliefs and presuppositions, and hopefully come closer to the truth.

This is the fourth in a series of articles designed for new students. If you are an incoming freshman or parent of one, you may want to check out my previous articles on registering for your first semester classes, how to spend your first week on campus, and a particularly good companion to this article, how to embrace failure.

Throughout your college experience, you will likely have many opportunities to debate, discuss, defend, or attack various positions. Embrace these opportunities and use them to widen your intellectual horizons, deepen your knowledge, and test yourself. It is important to recognize the fundamentals of good dialogue and understand why it is a helpful tool in school.

Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) offer early college application options, but with distinct commitments. EA is non-binding, allowing students to explore other schools, while ED is binding, requiring students to attend if accepted. This decision affects flexibility and financial aid options.

This article will explore proven strategies to manage stress during exams, giving learners a practical toolkit to meet examination periods with cool calmness and poised readiness.

The move from high school to a vastly diverse, demanding, and competitive college environment can be overwhelming. Through effective, well-structured mentorship, we can empower students to make the most of their formative college years.

In this article, we'll explore the culture and campus life among some of the HSI's in the SAGE Scholars consortium.

When you complete your FERPA proxy and understand your privacy rights, those seemingly small steps are helping you to become the leader of your life.