In the competitive world of college admissions, students are constantly seeking ways to stand out from the crowd. One unique and intellectually stimulating activity that can give applicants an edge is playing chess. Beyond being a classic game of strategy and skill, chess offers numerous benefits that can enhance a student’s application. From developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to demonstrating dedication and discipline, the skills honed through chess can make a compelling case to admissions committees. 

Engineering is a broad discipline that involves the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, analyze, build, and maintain structures, systems, devices, and processes. Engineers use their knowledge to solve practical problems and create innovative solutions, working across industries to help develop technology, infrastructure, and advancements that improve the quality of life and address societal challenges. Interested in pursuing an engineering degree? Read on to learn more about the field of engineering and the best engineering colleges in the U.S.

As more families consider the ROI of a college education, the value of a liberal arts education has been a hot topic. With many STEM degrees and programs topping lists of highest-paying majors and best college ROI, many have waged a war on the liberal arts. But let’s not dismiss the liberal arts so fast.

January Term (J-Term), Winter Term, Jan Plan, Winter Study — all these terms refer to the 4-1-4 academic calendar offered at some colleges and universities. The 4-1-4 academic calendar is an innovative approach to structuring the academic year, designed to enhance student learning and flexibility. But what exactly is the 4-1-4 academic calendar, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of this system?

The University of Virginia is one of the most competitive and exclusive public universities in the country. It was famously founded by one of the Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson, in 1819 in the beautiful city of Charlottesville, Virginia. UVA boasts a beautiful and sprawling campus that those in the know lovingly call “Grounds.” A campus quad is located within Grounds, known as “the Lawn,” where students attend classes, participate in student activities, and keep UVA traditions alive.

Bowdoin College is a small liberal arts college in Brunswick, Maine, just northeast of Portland. It does not offer professional track majors but has robust liberal arts offerings including a renowned environmental studies program. It is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 liberal arts colleges in the country by U.S. News and World Report.

The University of Southern California — or USC, as it’s best known — is a top research university and one of the most selective schools in the country. Located in sunny Los Angeles, California, it’s been a pioneer in academic and research initiatives since its beginnings in 1880.

Join IvyWise college admissions counselors Katie, Mari, and Tiffany, each former admissions directors at MIT, for an inside look at MIT.  Whether you are beginning the college search process or finalizing your list, this is a great opportunity to learn all about MIT from those who used to recruit and admit students to the university.

With a location in the heart of New York City and an array of top-ranked academic programs, it’s easy to understand why so many students place New York University at the top of their college best-fit lists. The institution has plenty of research and learning opportunities to offer, as well as all of the advantages associated with going to school in a major metropolitan city.

Princeton tops many students’ lists for dream schools to attend. Like most other Ivy League colleges, the university is known for its rigor and increasingly competitive applicant pool. As competition for a seat at the top-rated college intensifies, most future applicants are asking themselves the same question: What does it really take to earn admission to Princeton University?