As students prepare for college admissions, one common question families ask is: Should I take both the SAT and ACT? While both standardized tests are accepted at nearly every college in the U.S., they each have different formats, structures, and advantages. For some...

In today’s competitive admissions environment, students and parents often wonder: What really stands out to college admissions officers? Is it perfect grades, a mile-long list of extracurriculars, or an award-winning essay? The truth is, no single element guarantees...

Each year, top colleges receive tens of thousands of applications from high-achieving students. With many applicants having similar GPAs, test scores, and extracurriculars, standing out is harder—and more essential—than ever. What makes one student’s application rise...

For many high school students and parents, the college admissions process can feel like navigating a maze filled with unwritten rules, hidden criteria, and endless applications. One of the most common questions we hear at the College Benefits Research Group (CBRG) is:...

Every spring, thousands of college applicants across the country open their admissions emails with hope — only to find that they’ve been waitlisted. For many, this outcome is more confusing than a clear “yes” or “no.” So, what does it mean to be waitlisted, and what...

College is one of the biggest investments a family will ever make. Yet too many students and parents assume the only way to afford higher education is by taking on mountains of debt. That doesn’t have to be the case. With the right strategies, you can reduce costs...

When it comes to paying for college, two financial aid forms matter more than any others: the FAFSA/CSS Profile. These forms determine how much need-based and institutional aid students receive, shaping everything from federal grants to private college scholarships....

For many students, college decisions bring excitement, relief, or sometimes disappointment. But another result often causes confusion: being waitlisted. What does it mean to be waitlisted—and what can you or your student do about it? Being waitlisted isn’t the end of...

There’s only so much a brochure or website can tell you. College visits are a critical part of choosing the right school, offering invaluable insight into whether a college truly fits your student’s needs and personality. Why campus visits make a difference Visiting a...

College admissions can feel overwhelming—especially for parents striving to support their children through a process that has steadily grown more competitive and nuanced. Drawing from the expertise of College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), this article highlights...