Subscribe Here!

More expert advice

Course Selection

How to Choose High School Classes That Set Students Up for Success
Picture of Katie Sprague
By Katie Sprague
March 5, 2025 | 8 minute read

The high school courses a student takes, the grades they earn, and the transcripts they produce are some of the first things a college admissions reader sees. How can students choose the...

Continue Reading

College Essays

Common App Essay Topic Prompts
Picture of Kevin McMullin
By Kevin McMullin
March 3, 2025 | 6 minute read

Let change be your guide. Every college applicant has a story worth sharing. And the Common App’s 2025-2026 essay promptsoffer seven different options to share yours. But that variety of...

Continue Reading

College Applications College Research

Do College Rankings Matter?
Picture of Collegewise Staff
By Collegewise Staff
February 28, 2025 | 14 minute read

When it comes to selecting a university or college, many students and families turn to university rankings for guidance. These lists are often recognized as a quick and convenient way to...

Continue Reading

College Applications University of California

UC Application Deadline Guide (2025)
Picture of Anna Lewandowski
By Anna Lewandowski
February 23, 2025 | 40 minute read

Every year, Collegewise publishes a trusted University of California (UC) Guide, edited by expert Collegewise counselors who are former UC Admissions Officers. Used by students,...

Continue Reading

Financial Aid

How Long Does FAFSA Take to Process? 2025-2026 FAFSA Update
Picture of Mo Dyson
By Mo Dyson
February 14, 2025 | 7 minute read

Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step for millions of students applying to and paying for college. Due to the complexity of the FAFSA process in...

Continue Reading

What Colleges Look For

What is a Weighted or Unweighted GPA? Which Do Colleges Care About?
Picture of Collegewise Staff
By Collegewise Staff
February 13, 2025 | 17 minute read

Weighted versus Unweighted GPAs: A Closer Look Anyone who has worked as an admission officer or college counselor will tell you that questions about student grade point average (GPA) come...

Continue Reading

Subscribe to Email Updates