and Why Colleges Might Offer You More if They Think You’ll Enroll When families start thinking about how to pay for college, one of the first questions is: “What kind of financial aid can we get?” The answer usually involves two major types: Need-Based Aid  and Merit-Based Aid . Understanding how they work — and how colleges decide  what to offer — can help you make more informed choices during the application process. 📚 What’s the Difference? Aid Type What It’s Based On Where It Comes From Who Decides Need-Based Aid Your family’s financial situation (income, assets, household size, etc.) Federal gov’t (via FAFSA) and colleges FAFSA + sometimes CSS Profile Merit-Based Aid Your accomplishments (grades, test scores, talents, leadership, etc.) Primarily colleges themselves College admissions/aid offices 🏛️ Need-Based Aid : What to Know Based strictly on financial need , not grades or test scores. Comes from FAFSA , state aid , and sometimes schools directly. Schools that are need-blind  in admissions won’t consider your finances when deciding admission, but may still have limited aid to offer. Others are need-aware , meaning your financial situation can  influence both admission and aid decisions. ✨ Recent Trends in Need-Based Aid : The FAFSA has been simplified , but delays in processing caused stress for many families in 2024. Some private colleges are increasing need-based aid to compete with public flagship schools and improve accessibility. “Gapping”  — when a school admits a student but doesn’t offer enough aid to meet full need — is still common, especially at less well-funded institutions. 🏅 Merit-Based Aid : What to Know Awarded for academic achievement, talent, leadership, or other standout qualities. Can be used to attract students  the college really wants, as well as those it thinks might not attend without extra incentive. Merit aid is not tied to FAFSA , though some schools may require it for tracking or eligibility. ✨ Recent Trends in Merit Aid : Many schools are increasing merit aid  as a way to boost yield and attract top students — especially test-optional applicants. Some colleges are pulling back on merit aid to focus more on financial need, especially elite institutions. Out-of-state public universities  often use merit aid to draw students from other regions. 🎯 Aid Is Sometimes Based on How Likely You Are to Enroll Especially when it comes to merit-based and institutional aid , colleges use something called enrollment management . Translation? Schools may offer better scholarships to students they think are likely to say yes  to their offer. Factors that may influence this: Applying Early Decision Visiting campus or attending info sessions Engaging with admissions (emails, interviews, etc.) Geographic or demographic priorities They’re not just awarding aid because they like you (though they might!). They’re investing in students they think will enroll, succeed, and improve their yield. 🧠 What You Can Do Apply early  — some aid is first-come, first-served. Fill out the FAFSA  no matter what — even if you don’t think you’ll qualify. Look at each college’s financial aid website  to learn what kind of aid they offer and whether they meet full need. Don’t assume private = unaffordable  — many private colleges offer large merit or need-based packages. To Summarize... Need-based aid helps students who can’t afford college on their own. Merit-based aid rewards those who stand out. And sometimes, colleges offer more when they think you’ll choose them. The best strategy? Build a balanced list of schools, apply early, and stay informed . The right information can save your family thousands , not to mention open doors you didn’t think were within reach.

If you’re starting the financial aid process, you’ve probably heard about both the FAFSA  and the CSS Profile . But what’s the difference, and do you need to fill out both ? The short version: FAFSA is required by nearly all colleges (some states, like Texas, require their high school graduates to fill it out) , while the CSS Profile is used by some private schools to award additional institutional aid . Both can lead to real money, but they serve different purposes. Here’s what you (and your parents) need to know to make smart, timely decisions. 📊 FAFSA vs. CSS Profile: Side-by-Side Comparison Feature FAFSA  (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) CSS Profile  (College Scholarship Service Profile) Who Uses It? All U.S. colleges and universities for federal aid ~200 mostly private colleges for institutional aid Where to Find It studentaid.gov cssprofile.collegeboard.org Cost Free $25 for the first school, $16 for each additional Opens Typically October 1  (pushed to Dec  in 2023–24 cycle) Typically October 1  each year What It Covers Federal grants, loans, work-study Institutional aid (college-specific scholarships/grants) Income Info Required Prior-prior year tax return (e.g. 2023 return for 2025–26 year) More detailed financial info, including home equity and non-custodial parent data Used For Loans/Grants? Yes – Pell Grants, subsidized loans, more No – grants/scholarships only Deadline Varies by school/state; submit ASAP Varies by college – often earlier than FAFSA 🕒 Timing & Deadlines Matter FAFSA : Opens each year on October 1 , but for the 2024–25 cycle , it opened late (December 2023)  due to changes. Many schools use a first-come, first-served  approach for aid, so we typically recommend sending in your application within 2 weeks. Once the money runs out, that's it. CSS Profile : Deadlines are often tied to early application rounds  (Early Action/Decision), so check each school’s financial aid page for specific dates. 💡 Why Some Students Need Both If you’re applying to private or selective colleges (like NYU, USC, Amherst, or Columbia), you’ll likely need to submit both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile  to be considered for all possible aid. Public universities typically only require the FAFSA. 📈 Recent Financial Aid Trends to Know FAFSA Simplification : Starting with the 2024–25 form, FAFSA has been shortened and streamlined, but delays have impacted timelines and offers at some schools. More Test-Optional ≠ More Affordable : While many schools have gone test-optional, most haven’t changed how they award aid — strong academics and demonstrated need still matter. Aid Gaps Are Growing : With inflation and rising tuition, it’s more important than ever to explore both federal and institutional aid options , apply early, and compare offers carefully. To Summarize... Filling out the FAFSA is a non-negotiable first step  for anyone who wants help paying for college. The CSS Profile can unlock additional aid at private schools , but requires more detail and planning. When in doubt: submit both . The worst that happens? You qualify for more aid than you expected. Need help organizing your financial aid checklist or figuring out which schools require the CSS Profile? Drop a comment or reach out — we’re here to help you make confident, informed choices!

If you’ve been researching colleges, you’ve probably seen the phrase " holistic approach." So what does that actually mean? In plain terms, it means colleges look at more than just your grades and test scores . They consider the whole student  — your experiences, character, background, and potential — not just the numbers. Here's an overview of what colleges look for, which will offer clarity on how you can show up as your full self: 🧠 What Do Colleges Consider in a Holistic Review? GPA & Coursework : Rigor of classes taken (AP, IB, Honors), trends over time, and grades Standardized Test Scores : SAT/ACT — if submitted (and if the college requires them) Personal Essays : Your voice, values, writing ability, and how you reflect on your experiences Extracurriculars : What you’ve done outside the classroom — jobs, clubs, leadership, creative pursuits, etc. Letters of Recommendation : Insight from teachers or mentors who know your character and potential Context : Your school, family, and community environment; life circumstances or barriers you’ve faced Demonstrated Interest : In some cases, how engaged you’ve been with the school (visits, info sessions, etc.) 💡 In holistic admissions, no single part of the application outweighs everything else . It’s all about the big picture. 📊 How Are Things Weighed? A Simple Snapshot Here’s how various elements are currently valued at many selective schools ( though this varies from one school to the next ) : Application Component Weight/Importance (2024–25 trends) GPA & Course Rigor ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Very High) Essays ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (High — increasingly important) Standardized Test Scores ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Medium — if submitted) Extracurriculars ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Medium — especially impact & leadership) Letters of Recommendation ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Moderate) Demonstrated Interest ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Varies by school) Context/Background ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Often key in holistic review) 🔍 Recent Trends to Know Essays Matter More Than Ever : With many schools going test-optional, the personal statement and supplemental essays have become more critical in understanding who you are. Test-Optional Is Still Widespread : But strong test scores can  still help — especially if your GPA is borderline. “Spike” > “Well-Rounded” : Colleges are often drawn to students with depth in one area  (a "spike") more than those who are just generally involved. Authenticity Wins : Colleges are looking for real humans  with curiosity, resilience, and purpose — not perfect résumés. 🧭 What This Means for You Focus on your strengths  — and explain them clearly. If your test scores are strong, submit them . If not, lean on the rest of your story & apply to schools that are test optional. Use essays and activities to show who you are , not just what you’ve done. Remember: You are more than your numbers — and colleges that say they’re holistic mean it. To Summarize... Holistic admissions is about more than checking boxes — it’s about connecting dots . When colleges review your application, they’re asking: Who is this student, and what might they bring to our community? That’s your opportunity to be honest, reflective, and proud of your journey — however unique it may be. Stressed about college applications? Unsure how to tell your story in an authentic and compelling way? Reach out! We'd love to offer our support and expertise!

Deciding whether to send your SAT or ACT scores can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming . With so many colleges now offering test-optional policies, you have more control than ever over how you present your strengths. The key is knowing when scores can work in your favor — and when it’s smarter to leave them out. Here's what to consider so you make the best call for your unique situation: 📊 When Submitting Scores Helps — and When It Doesn’t Scenario Submit Scores? Why 🎯 Your scores are at or above the college’s average ✅ Yes It strengthens your application and reinforces your academic readiness 🤷‍♀️ Your scores are slightly below average, but not terrible 🤔 Maybe Consider submitting if the rest of your app is strong or the school still values scores 🚫 Your scores are significantly below the school’s average ❌ No Test-optional means you won’t be penalized  for not submitting — focus on other strengths 📉 Your GPA is lower than ideal, but your test scores are strong ✅ Yes Scores can balance a lower GPA and show academic potential ✨ You’re applying to test-blind schools ❌ No They won’t look at scores at all, even if you send them 💸 You need merit scholarships and the school uses scores for awards ✅ Yes At some colleges, higher scores = more money 🌍 You’re an international student ✅ Often Some schools may require scores if your transcripts aren’t in English or from a U.S.-based system 🎨 You’re applying to arts or portfolio-based programs 🤷‍♂️ Maybe Some don’t emphasize test scores, but check each school’s policy 💡 The Truth is... Test-optional doesn’t mean test-blind  — many colleges will  consider your scores if you send them. Submitting a strong score  (even if not required) can help you stand out . But submitting a weak score  can drag you down , especially at competitive schools. 🔍 Pro Tip: Research Before You Decide Every school has its own policy. Some even offer a "test optional but encouraged" approach for certain applicants. Visit the admissions website or check the middle 50% score ranges to make an informed choice. To Summarize: If your score shows you in a good light, send it. If it doesn’t and the schools you're applying to are test optional, skip sending the score and let the rest of your application shine. Still unsure? We’re happy to help you evaluate your scores against your college list. Just reach out!

If you’re staring down application deadlines and getting confused or anxious (or both!) about the terms “Early Decision” and “Early Action,” you’re not alone . They can seem complicated and difficult to navigate, but they aren't! The trick is knowing the difference and which works best for your application strategy . 🧠 First, What Do They Have in Common? Earlier deadlines  (typically Nov 1 or Nov 15) Earlier admission decisions  (often by December) Can give you a competitive edge  if you’re a strong applicant Still require all materials: essays, test scores (if submitting), recommendations, etc. ⚖️ Key Differences: Early Decision vs. Early Action Early Decision (ED) Early Action (EA) Binding? ✅ Yes – you must  attend if accepted ❌ No – you’re free to choose Deadlines Early (usually Nov 1–15) Early (usually Nov 1–15) Notification Mid-December Mid-December to January Can Apply to Other Schools? ❌ Not ED – only one ED school ✅ Yes – multiple EA schools (usually) Financial Aid Flexibility? 🚫 Limited – must commit before comparing offers ✅ Full flexibility to compare offers Best For Students with a clear top choice  and strong application Students who want early results without pressure 💡 Quick Tips to Decide Choose Early Decision  only if: You’re 100% sure it’s your top choice You’ve done the research and are okay committing before seeing other offers Your application is ready  and strong early Choose Early Action  if: You want early feedback without locking in You’re applying to multiple schools and need options You want to compare scholarships and financial aid 🎯 Pro Tip: Some schools also offer Restrictive Early Action (REA)  or Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA)  — which are non-binding but limit how many other early apps you can submit. Read the fine print carefully. To Summarize... 👉 Early deadlines can be a strategic advantage — if  they fit your situation. Don’t apply early just because it seems like the “better” option. Apply early because you’re ready. Still not sure which path fits you best? Reach out or drop a comment. You don’t have to figure it all out alone!

Most students apply to 6–10 colleges . But the right  number depends on you   — your goals, resources, and how much time and energy you can realistically invest. Let’s break it down. ✅ The “Balanced List” Rule of Thumb A well-rounded college list typically includes: 2–3 Safety schools : You’re very likely to be admitted (and can afford them). 2–4 Match schools : Your academic profile is similar to that of admitted students. 2–3 Reach schools : Admission is less certain, but still within possibility. This strategy gives you options without overwhelming you (or your recommenders). 🙋 Who You Are Matters 🎓 High-Achieving, Reach-Oriented Students Likely applying to selective schools with low admit rates You might apply to 10–15 colleges  to increase odds Just make sure every app is strong — quality > quantity 💰 Students with Financial Concerns Focus on schools with generous aid or merit scholarships Consider 8–10 well-researched schools , including financial safeties Don’t forget to include in-state public options 🌍 First-Gen or Under-Resourced Students Apply to at least 6–8 schools , including fly-in or support program schools Use free tools like Common App fee waivers to apply broadly 😅 Students Feeling Overwhelmed It’s okay to apply to fewer schools  — even 4–6 — if they’re well chosen Focus on schools you’d actually  attend and where you’re likely to be admitted Organization > overextension 🚨 A Few Things to Keep in Mind Each school = separate essays, fees, and deadlines More apps = more stress unless you’re organized You don’t have  to apply to a ton of schools to get in somewhere great Applying to schools you wouldn’t actually attend is a waste of time To Summarize: The goal isn’t to apply to the most schools — it’s to apply to the right  ones. A thoughtful list will serve you better than a long one. Still unsure? A good litmus test: Can you explain why  you're applying to each school on your list? If not, it's worth revisiting. Need help building a balanced college list or figuring out what’s a safety vs. reach? Reach out — we’re happy to help!

The short answer? Early in your junior year  (yes, really). However, the bulk of application work ramps up between the summer before senior year and early fall . Let’s break it down realistically — no scare tactics, just a smart, stress-managing timeline. 📅 Junior Year: Lay the Groundwork (Fall–Spring) This is when you can get intentional with your college application preparation. You don’t have to fill out applications yet, but everything you do now helps build a solid foundation: Take or retake the SAT/ACT (if you're submitting scores) Research colleges that fit your interests, goals, and budget Visit campuses (virtually or in person) if you can Stay on top of grades — junior year is critical Start thinking about your story: What’s shaped you? What do you care about? Request letters of recommendation before  school ends — teachers appreciate the head start! ☀️ Summer Before Senior Year: Prime Time Summer is golden  for application prep. Why? Fewer distractions, more control over your time. Here's what to do: Create your Common App account (and other platforms if needed) Draft a college list with a range of reach, match, and safety schools Start your personal statement  (main essay) Brainstorm/draft any supplemental essays If you didn't do it at the end of junior year, request rec letters before  school starts — again, teachers appreciate the head start! 🍂 Fall of Senior Year: Apply Smart, Not Panicked Application season is here — deadlines vary, but here are the big ones: Early Action/Early Decision : Usually Nov 1–15 Regular Decision : Typically Jan 1–15 By September, you should be finalizing essays and starting submissions. If you were able to knock out your essays during the summer, you may already be finished with the most time consuming piece! ✅ Quick Checklist: Getting Started with College Apps Here's a no-fluff starter list to keep you on track: ☐ Build a resume or activities list ☐ Create a master college list (reach/match/safety) ☐ Note application deadlines. Seriously, NOTE THEM. ☐ Create a Common App account (and other platforms like UC, Coalition, etc. if applicable) ☐ Begin your personal statement (and don’t stress if it’s messy at first) ☐ Ask for letters of recommendation by the end of junior year or early senior fall ☐ Take/review standardized test scores (or decide if you’re going test-optional) ☐ Look into financial aid (CSS Profile and FAFSA; FAFSA availability has been all over the place; the past two years it's been open in the Dec/Jan timeframe) If you're looking for step-by-step support on your college applications at an affordable price, click the button below for details on our newest product, AppsGenius! In Summary... You don’t need to have your entire future figured out — just take the next right step . Starting early isn’t about perfection; it’s about breathing room, confidence, and options. You’ve got this.