Texas high school students celebrating college applications during Free Application Week with university logos and Texas flag imagery.
,

Unlock Free College Applications in Texas: How Families Can Maximize Free Application Week

For the first time ever, Texas students will be able to apply to all public universities in the state for free. Free College Application Week in Texas runs October 13–19, 2025, and it’s an unprecedented opportunity for families to save money…
A&M CDS Webpage
,

How to Use the Common Data Set in Your College Search

Most families don’t realize the single most useful admissions resource is publicly available — for free. It’s called the Common Data Set (CDS), and it’s the “most helpful three words” you can learn as you start the college search…
Students on a college campus
,

How to Build a College List That Fits You

Building a thoughtful college list—one that balances aspiration with realism—can save stress, increase options, and even reduce costs.
A group of students working on their early applications
, ,

Should You Submit SAT/ACT Scores?

In today’s ever-changing world of college admissions, one of the biggest questions facing families is this: If my teen has an SAT or ACT score, should we submit it—or hold back? Welcome to the era of test-optional policies. These policies…
student at a fork of holistic and test required admissions

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…
need aware versus need blind symbolism

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…
Mother and daughter reviewing college material

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…
Student working on applications

“Why Us” Essays: The Do’s and Don’ts of “Why Us” Essays

Whether you are applying to UT Austin, Rice, Michigan, USC, UChicago, NYU—or any other selective school—this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and craft a response that feels specific, personal, and compelling.
Mother supporting son as he works on applications
,

Addressing Application Stress: Strategies for Students and Families

When College Dreams Meet Overwhelming Pressure As spring rolls in, so does an invisible weight for many high school juniors: college application season is around the corner. This should be a time of excitement and opportunity. But for many…
A group of students working on their early applications

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…