College Prep Tips & Resources for Every Grade

With a sprawling campus, top-tier academic offerings, and Division I sports teams, the University of California, Los Angeles is a top choice for many high school students.

What does strength of school mean, and how do colleges use the school profile to evaluate applicants? In this episode of the Just Admit It! podcast, IvyWise experts Tasha and Juaquin explain how admissions officers read a transcript in the context of a student’s high school and share tips for strengthening your academic profile within it.

Grades are one of the most important factors in college admissions, but it matters how you earn them. In this episode of Just Admit It!, IvyWise counselors Tasha and Abdiel talk about course rigor and why it’s crucial for students not only to achieve strong grades, but also to challenge themselves academically.

Grades are typically one of the most important factors in the college application review, but your transcript doesn’t tell admissions committees the whole story. In this episode of Just Admit It!, IvyWise counselors Tasha and Anthony discuss grades in depth and how they are just one factor in the college admissions rubric.

Often regarded as a “Southern Ivy,” which makes admission highly competitive, Duke attracts talented students from across the U.S. and around the globe. If you aspire to become a Blue Devil, it’s essential to understand what Duke looks for in applicants so you can position yourself for success.

The University of Chicago, commonly known as UChicago, is a private research university located within a 217-acre botanical garden in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. UChicago was established in 1890 on the founding principles of academic freedom and free expression — principles that are still upheld to this day through interdisciplinary collaboration, world-class academics and research, and a distinctive campus culture.

Considered among the best universities in the south, Tulane University is highly competitive. Class of 2030 admissions statistics have not been released in their entirety, but we do know the acceptance rate is approximately 15%

UCLA is part of the University of California system, which is comprised of 10 campuses throughout the state. Students applying to UCLA must use the UC application — the University of California system does not use the Common App or Coalition Application. The application process includes several personal statement prompts, or what UC refers to as personal insight questions. Keep reading to learn more about these prompts and tips for responding to them.   

If you’re planning to go to college, it’s essential to make all four years of high school count. Colleges look at your entire high school record — courses, grades, activities, and more — when evaluating college applications. They want to see how you have progressed over your time in high school and if you’re truly ready for the rigors of a college education. So, whether it’s your first year in high school, your senior year, or somewhere in between, these resources can help you on your path to higher education. 

Students interested in going to school in New York City often prioritize two colleges: New York University (NYU) and Columbia University. Although these institutions are located in the same metropolitan area, New York City, there are several key differences between them.