Applying to college can feel overwhelming. Between standardized tests, essays, extracurriculars, and looming deadlines, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. But over the years, College Benefits Research Group (CBRG) has helped thousands of students cut through the...
When it comes to college admissions, few decisions cause more confusion for students and families than choosing between the SAT and ACT. While most U.S. colleges accept scores from either test, deciding which one to take can influence not only your test-day...
Preparing for the SAT or ACT isn’t just about cramming content—it’s about building a personalized study strategy that aligns with your learning style, goals, and timeline. At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we’ve worked with thousands of students to turn test...
Planning for college is one of the biggest financial challenges families face today. With tuition costs rising faster than inflation and the added pressure of securing financial aid, many parents are unsure how to balance their child’s college dreams with their...
Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a family will make, but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. With thousands of schools across the country, each offering different programs, campus cultures, and financial aid packages, knowing...
Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming for parents and students alike. Between rising tuition costs, complex applications, and fierce competition, many families struggle to create a strategy that balances both academic success and financial...
The activities resume is one of the most powerful parts of your college application. While your academic record demonstrates your intellectual capabilities, your activities resume gives admissions officers a clear picture of who you are outside the classroom—your...
Your personal statement is one of the most influential components of your college application. It’s your chance to go beyond grades and test scores to showcase your personality, values, and aspirations. A well-crafted personal statement can set you apart from other...
Scholarships are one of the most underutilized resources in the college funding world. Every year, millions of dollars go unclaimed simply because students and families don’t know where to look or how to apply. At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we help...
Getting into college is a victory. But what happens when your financial aid award falls short of expectations? You don’t have to accept it as the final word. Many families are unaware that financial aid awards are negotiable, especially when circumstances have changed...
College financial aid forms can feel like an alphabet soup of stress for families. Between the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and additional institutional documents, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, these forms are essential for unlocking financial aid that can dramatically...
Even the most organized families can stumble through the college application process. At CBRG, we’ve seen it all—and we’ve built a process to ensure our clients don’t fall into these common traps. Here are the top 10 mistakes families make, and how we help them stay...