Entries by Shane

Understanding Holistic Admissions: Beyond GPA and Test Scores

In today’s competitive college landscape, many parents are surprised to learn that top grades and high test scores alone no longer guarantee admission. Colleges and universities are increasingly turning to a holistic college admissions process to evaluate applicants. But what does that really mean for your college-bound teen? This guide will help you understand how […]

Need Blind, Need Aware: What Parents Should Know

As your family navigates the college application process, you’re likely thinking about academics, campus culture, and financial aid. But one important factor that often goes overlooked—yet can play a significant role in admissions decisions—is whether a school is need-blind or need-aware. Understanding these terms can help you better assess where to apply, how to prepare, […]

Stretch, Target, Safety Schools: How to Build a Smart College List

When your child starts the college search, you’ll quickly hear terms like stretch, target, and safety schools. These categories are more than just buzzwords—they’re essential tools for creating a balanced college list that leads to real options and less stress when admissions decisions roll in. But what do these labels actually mean? And how can […]

Merit-Based College Admissions on the Rise

A New Era in College Admissions? If you’re a parent preparing your teen for college—or a consultant guiding families through the application maze—there’s a new trend you need to watch: merit-based college admissions. The spotlight is on the University of Austin (UATX), a startup institution already making waves by daring to break from tradition. Why […]

How the Rise in Early Action Applications Is Changing Admissions

College admissions are evolving, and one of the most significant changes in recent years is the rise in Early Action (EA) applications. More students are choosing to submit their applications earlier, seeking potential advantages in acceptance rates and decision timelines. But what does this trend mean for students, parents, and colleges? Let’s explore how this […]

Choosing the Right Major: The Overlooked Key to College Success

College applications are a stressful and exciting time for students and their families. Parents often focus on grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and crafting the perfect personal statement. However, one critical factor is often overlooked—choosing the right major. A student’s major choice can significantly impact their academic experience, career opportunities, and even financial future. […]

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Test-Optional is Fading: More Students Are Submitting Test Scores

Test-optional is fading in college admissions. For the past few years, test-optional policies have dominated college admissions. In response to COVID-19 and long-standing concerns about standardized testing fairness, many colleges eliminated SAT and ACT requirements. However, a growing number of students are now opting to submit their test scores again. Why? The reasons range from competitive […]

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College Admissions Updates 2025: 6 Key Changes Families Must Know

The college admissions landscape is evolving rapidly, and families with high school students—especially in the Class of 2026 and 2027—need to stay ahead of the curve. With major college admissions updates in 2025, including new testing policies, application trends, and essay evaluations, the process is more competitive than ever. To help parents and students prepare […]