https://eliteprep.com/blog/ Admissions guides, test strategy and study advice from Elite Prep instructors and counselors. en Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT Having a strong understanding and ability to use a wide range of words accurately is important for students to achieve outstanding scores on standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. Here are 306 MORE words you must know for the SAT and ACT. https://eliteprep.com/blog/engineering-business-combined-programs-at-top-us-colleges/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/engineering-business-combined-programs-at-top-us-colleges/ Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT In this article, we will explore combined Engineering and Business programs at eight renowned US colleges, highlighting their distinctive features. https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-your-major-choice-affects-college-admissions/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-your-major-choice-affects-college-admissions/ Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT One of the most misunderstood aspects of the college admission process is the role of a student’s intended academic major. While families often assume that selecting the “right” major is critical, the reality is more nuanced—and varies significantly by institution. https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-essay-brainstorming-how-to-find-your-best-story/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-essay-brainstorming-how-to-find-your-best-story/ Tue, 25 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT Struggling to find a college essay topic? Use these college essay brainstorming questions to uncover meaningful stories from your everyday experiences. https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-supplemental-essays-disappearing/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-supplemental-essays-disappearing/ Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT Some colleges have eliminated supplemental essays, but most selective colleges still require them. Learn why they matter and how to strengthen your college application. https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-should-you-write-about-in-your-college-essay/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-should-you-write-about-in-your-college-essay/ Mon, 17 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT Not sure what to write about in your college essay? Learn how to choose meaningful experiences that reveal who you are beyond grades and activities. https://eliteprep.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-act/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-act/ Tue, 28 Jul 2026 21:22:17 GMT The Enhanced ACT is the current version of the ACT college admissions test. It consists of three required sections that determine your ACT Composite Score, plus an optional Science section and an optional Writing (Essay) section. Keep reading to learn more! https://eliteprep.com/blog/should-you-take-the-act-science-test/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/should-you-take-the-act-science-test/ Tue, 28 Jul 2026 21:01:55 GMT With the introduction of the Enhanced ACT, the ACT Science section is optional and no longer contributes to a student's ACT composite score. So, should you still take the ACT Science test? The right decision depends on your college list, intended major, and overall testing strategy. Before registeri https://eliteprep.com/blog/uc-app-kr/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/uc-app-kr/ Sat, 30 May 2026 14:10:58 GMT 12학년으로 올라가는 학생들에게 여름방학은 대학 지원 준비의 골든타임이다. 특히 University of California, 즉 UC 계열 대학을 목표로 하는 학생이라면 UC 지원서는 Common App과 다른 구조를 갖고 있기 때문에 별도의 전략적 준비가 필요하다. https://eliteprep.com/blog/could-the-sat-and-act-return-to-uc-admissions/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/could-the-sat-and-act-return-to-uc-admissions/ Fri, 29 May 2026 14:56:19 GMT For the past several years, the University of California has operated under a test-blind admissions policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores have not been considered in undergraduate admissions decisions. However, recent developments suggest that the debate over standardized testing is far from over. https://eliteprep.com/blog/welite-prep-class-of-2026-record-breaking-college-acceptances-and-expanding-opportunities/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/welite-prep-class-of-2026-record-breaking-college-acceptances-and-expanding-opportunities/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:54:47 GMT The Class of 2026 at Elite Prep has reached a new milestone, achieving our strongest college admissions results to date. This year’s outcomes reflect not only academic excellence, but also strategic planning, disciplined execution, and a clear understanding of today’s evolving admissions landscape. https://eliteprep.com/blog/waitlisted-vs-deferred-vs-rejected-what-each-college-decision-really-means/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/waitlisted-vs-deferred-vs-rejected-what-each-college-decision-really-means/ Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:28:34 GMT Each spring—and sometimes earlier in the admissions cycle—high school seniors receive one of several different decisions from colleges. While an acceptance is easy to understand, other outcomes can feel confusing. Students may see terms such as waitlisted, deferred, or rejected, and many wonder what https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-write-a-strong-letter-of-continued-interest-loci-for-college-waitlists/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-write-a-strong-letter-of-continued-interest-loci-for-college-waitlists/ Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:28:14 GMT For high school seniors who receive a waitlist decision, one of the most common questions is: Should I send a Letter of Continued Interest? In many cases, the answer is yes—if the college allows it. A thoughtful Letter of Continued Interest (often called a LOCI) gives students an opportunity to reaf https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-many-students-actually-get-off-the-college-waitlist-real-admissions-data-explained/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-many-students-actually-get-off-the-college-waitlist-real-admissions-data-explained/ Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:17:42 GMT What are the actual chances of being admitted from a waitlist? The answer varies widely by college and by year. Some institutions admit hundreds of students from their waitlist, while others admit very few—or none at all. Understanding how waitlists work and what the data shows can help students app https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-waitlisted-what-high-school-seniors-should-do-next/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-waitlisted-what-high-school-seniors-should-do-next/ Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:10:55 GMT While it can feel frustrating or confusing, a waitlist decision does not mean the admissions process is over. Colleges use waitlists to manage uncertainty in enrollment, and some students are admitted from the waitlist each year. If you’ve been waitlisted, the key is to respond strategically while c https://eliteprep.com/blog/colleges-still-accepting-applications-in-march-what-high-school-seniors-need-to-know/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/colleges-still-accepting-applications-in-march-what-high-school-seniors-need-to-know/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:10:44 GMT By early March, most high school seniors have already submitted their college applications. Major deadlines have passed—November 30 for the University of California system and around January 1 for many private universities across the United States. However, the admissions cycle is far from over. Eac https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-build-real-leaders-5-things-this-high-school-volunteer-club-gets-right/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-build-real-leaders-5-things-this-high-school-volunteer-club-gets-right/ Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:14:00 GMT For many, the phrase "high school volunteer club" conjures images of students collecting canned goods or selling baked goods to fulfill the community service hours required for college applications. But what if a different model existed? A closer look at the operational framework of IMPACT ChangeMak https://eliteprep.com/blog/deferred-but-not-done-what-to-do-if-youre-deferred-from-early-decision-or-early-action/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/deferred-but-not-done-what-to-do-if-youre-deferred-from-early-decision-or-early-action/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:09:00 GMT A deferral means the admissions committee saw promise in your application but wants more context—often senior-year grades, updated achievements, or a broader comparison with the regular decision pool. Many deferred students are academically qualified. Unlike a rejection, a deferral keeps your applic https://eliteprep.com/blog/early-decision-early-action-acceptances-jan-2026/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/early-decision-early-action-acceptances-jan-2026/ Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:45:08 GMT Each year, families ask whether applying early—through Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA)—can make a meaningful difference in college admissions. This year’s results show that, when done thoughtfully, it can. https://eliteprep.com/blog/why-public-universities-should-reconsider-requiring-standardized-tests/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/why-public-universities-should-reconsider-requiring-standardized-tests/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:19:22 GMT The debate over standardized testing at public universities has become increasingly polarized. But if public universities cannot reliably assess academic readiness at admission, who bears the cost of that uncertainty? https://eliteprep.com/blog/a-guide-to-accelerated-straight-medicine-programs-in-the-us/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/a-guide-to-accelerated-straight-medicine-programs-in-the-us/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 20:02:00 GMT Accelerated or straight medicine programs in the United States provide an exceptional opportunity for high school students to pursue their passion for medicine by applying to medical school at the same time they apply to college. These programs, also known as BS/MD or BA/MD programs, allow students https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-consortiums-in-the-us/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-consortiums-in-the-us/ Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:19:49 GMT College consortiums in the United States offer students enriched academic and social experiences by pooling resources across member institutions. These alliances allow students to take advantage of a broader curriculum, shared facilities, and a greater variety of social and extracurricular activitie https://eliteprep.com/blog/choosing-the-right-university/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/choosing-the-right-university/ Fri, 12 Sep 2025 21:11:00 GMT When selecting a university, students often face a crucial decision: should they attend a highly selective private university with a smaller undergraduate enrollment (5,000–8,000 students) or opt for a selective public research university with a larger student body (30,000–50,000 students)? Each typ https://eliteprep.com/blog/umich-early-decision/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/umich-early-decision/ Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:12:00 GMT The University of Michigan recently announced a new binding early decision application plan for first year applicants starting the fall 2026 admission cycle. Applicants must apply by November 1, submit financial aid by November 15, and will receive a decision by end of December, with commitment by m https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-athletic-recruitment-process/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-athletic-recruitment-process/ Wed, 16 Jul 2025 20:42:00 GMT Understanding the differences between NCAA Division I, Division II, and Division III athletic programs is essential for students seeking athletic scholarships. In this article, we will explore the college athletic recruitment process and delve into the distinctions between the three divisions. Addit https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-3-the-admission-process/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-3-the-admission-process/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:42:55 GMT Here's a detailed breakdown of the admission requirements, application process, and timeline for U.S. students seeking to apply to UK universities, especially through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), which handles nearly all undergraduate applications. https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-2-top-10-colleges-and-universities-in-the-uk-for-us-students/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-2-top-10-colleges-and-universities-in-the-uk-for-us-students/ Thu, 19 Jun 2025 20:40:48 GMT Here are the top 10 colleges and universities in the UK, including their top bachelor's majors, locations, U.S. admission rates, and average cost of attendance. https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-1/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/applying-to-colleges-and-universities-in-the-united-kingdom-part-1/ Thu, 29 May 2025 19:26:56 GMT As high school students in the United States plan their futures, many naturally look to domestic colleges and universities. However, studying abroad—particularly in the United Kingdom—offers a compelling alternative with numerous advantages. From accelerated degrees to cultural enrichment, the benef https://eliteprep.com/blog/webinar-recording-the-dos-and-donts-of-college-admissions/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/webinar-recording-the-dos-and-donts-of-college-admissions/ Wed, 28 May 2025 18:29:33 GMT Join us for this free webinar recording and learn what students from the class of 2025 did to get into top colleges and universities! https://eliteprep.com/blog/measuring-demonstrated-interest-how-interested-are-you-in-attending-our-college/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/measuring-demonstrated-interest-how-interested-are-you-in-attending-our-college/ Fri, 09 May 2025 20:41:45 GMT The college admissions process is a daunting journey for high school students seeking to continue their education at esteemed institutions. Among the plethora of factors that influence the admission decision, one aspect that has garnered increasing attention in recent years is "demonstrated interest https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-university-of-california-under-pressure/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-university-of-california-under-pressure/ Thu, 01 May 2025 16:24:36 GMT The University of California (UC) currently follows a test-free admissions policy—SAT and ACT scores are not considered at all in undergraduate admissions decisions. However, the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration recently issued a so-called “Dear Colleague” letter to colleg https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-high-school-students-should-do-before-the-end-of-the-school-year-and-to-plan-for-summer/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-high-school-students-should-do-before-the-end-of-the-school-year-and-to-plan-for-summer/ Thu, 01 May 2025 16:03:34 GMT From studying for AP exams to engaging in meaningful summer activities, what students do now can shape their academic growth, college readiness, and future opportunities. Here’s what students at each grade level should be doing as they wrap up the school year and plan ahead. https://eliteprep.com/blog/understanding-college-costs-how-parents-can-use-the-net-price-calculator/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/understanding-college-costs-how-parents-can-use-the-net-price-calculator/ Mon, 21 Apr 2025 20:53:00 GMT The Net Price Calculator (NPC) comes in as a helpful tool, providing a personalized estimate of the net cost of attending a specific college after aid and grants are factored in. Here's how parents can use this calculator effectively and what to keep in mind about its limitations. https://eliteprep.com/blog/alternative-college-pathways-what-to-know-about-spring-starts-overseas-programs-two-year-affiliate-colleges/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/alternative-college-pathways-what-to-know-about-spring-starts-overseas-programs-two-year-affiliate-colleges/ Thu, 17 Apr 2025 20:40:15 GMT When it comes to starting college, the traditional fall semester on a main campus isn't the only option anymore. More U.S. colleges are offering students alternative pathways—like beginning in the spring, spending the first year overseas, or starting at a two-year college affiliated with the univers https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-6-cs-of-college-search-finding-the-right-fit-for-high-school-students/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-6-cs-of-college-search-finding-the-right-fit-for-high-school-students/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 15:29:26 GMT A successful application balances five key elements: Program, Performance, Passion, Participation, and Personality. Understanding these “5 P’s” can help students strategically prepare for the college admissions process and maximize their chances of acceptance. https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-5-ps-of-college-admission-a-guide-for-high-school-students-and-parents/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-5-ps-of-college-admission-a-guide-for-high-school-students-and-parents/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:25:55 GMT A successful application balances five key elements: Program, Performance, Passion, Participation, and Personality. Understanding these “5 P’s” can help students strategically prepare for the college admissions process and maximize their chances of acceptance. https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-college-after-admissions-decisions-are-released/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-college-after-admissions-decisions-are-released/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:14:18 GMT Whether you're choosing between several acceptances or grappling with the disappointment of being denied from your top choice, it's essential to approach this decision with a clear head and thoughtful strategy. https://eliteprep.com/blog/navigating-the-college-waitlist-how-to-increase-your-chances-of-getting-accepted/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/navigating-the-college-waitlist-how-to-increase-your-chances-of-getting-accepted/ Thu, 20 Mar 2025 14:06:29 GMT It's important to remember that being waitlisted doesn't necessarily mean your college dreams are dashed. Many institutions utilize waitlists as a way to manage their admissions process effectively, and with a well-crafted letter of continued interest, you can enhance your chances of ultimately secu https://eliteprep.com/blog/why-high-school-students-planning-to-study-engineering-and-science-in-college-should-take-the-sat-and-act/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/why-high-school-students-planning-to-study-engineering-and-science-in-college-should-take-the-sat-and-act/ Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:01:31 GMT For high school students aspiring to pursue careers in engineering and science, taking standardized college admission tests like the SAT or ACT can be a crucial step in preparing for the challenges of higher education. https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-admission-notifications-for-the-class-of-2025-are-coming/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-admission-notifications-for-the-class-of-2025-are-coming/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:43:01 GMT While some colleges and universities have already started to release admission decisions for this year's high school seniors (for example, the University of Texas on February 15 and University of Illinois on February 28), most colleges release decisions in the month of March. https://eliteprep.com/blog/more-colleges-are-requiring-standardized-tests/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/more-colleges-are-requiring-standardized-tests/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 19:48:29 GMT High school students applying to colleges that require the SAT or ACT scores are also likely to apply to colleges that are test-optional. So, students applying to test-optional colleges and universities must consider taking standardized tests or risk being at a competitive disadvantage. https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-act-is-changing-c5l3w/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-act-is-changing-c5l3w/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:50:45 GMT Elite Open School will start administering the NEWL Korean test in April 2025. This article discusses how high school students can leverage the advantages of the NEWL examination to enhance their educational journey. https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-act-is-changing/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-act-is-changing/ Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:27:15 GMT Starting in April 2025, the ACT college admission test will undergo significant changes to enhance flexibility in how high school students take the test and reduce test duration for students. These modifications are designed to better align the assessment with students' needs while maintaining the A https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-ib-diploma-programme-requirements-advantages-and-considerations-for-high-school-students/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/the-ib-diploma-programme-requirements-advantages-and-considerations-for-high-school-students/ Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:15:00 GMT In this article, we will delve into the requirements of the IB Diploma Programme, including the six areas of knowledge; Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS); the extended essay; internal assessments; and IB tests. Furthermore, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages that high school stud https://eliteprep.com/blog/making-the-most-of-summer-impactful-activities-for-high-school-students/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/making-the-most-of-summer-impactful-activities-for-high-school-students/ Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:05:00 GMT Summer is a golden opportunity for high school students to focus on personal growth, academic advancement, and skill development. With careful planning, students can balance relaxation with meaningful activities that prepare them for college and beyond. Here are five impactful ways to make the most https://eliteprep.com/blog/developing-a-growth-mindset-empowering-high-school-students-for-success/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/developing-a-growth-mindset-empowering-high-school-students-for-success/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:42:00 GMT Embracing a growth mindset empowers students to face challenges, learn from failures, and reach their full potential. In this article, we will explore how high school students can develop a growth mindset with specific examples to inspire and motivate them on their educational journey. https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-to-do-if-youre-deferred/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/what-to-do-if-youre-deferred/ Fri, 27 Dec 2024 18:15:00 GMT A deferral can feel disheartening, but it’s important to recognize that it’s not a rejection. Instead, a deferral means the admissions committee wants to reassess your application in the context of the larger, regular decision applicant pool. Here’s what you need to know about deferrals and how to t https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-make-a-good-impression-on-your-college-applications-with-optional-introduction-videos/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/how-to-make-a-good-impression-on-your-college-applications-with-optional-introduction-videos/ Mon, 25 Nov 2024 16:23:00 GMT In recent years, many colleges have incorporated optional introduction videos into their application process. These videos give students a unique opportunity to introduce themselves beyond test scores, grades, and written essays. A well-crafted video can showcase your personality, passions, and comm https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-interviews-for-high-school-students-a-comprehensive-guide/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-interviews-for-high-school-students-a-comprehensive-guide/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 22:03:02 GMT College interviews play a crucial role in the admissions process for high school students aspiring to attend prestigious educational institutions. These interviews provide an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, accomplishments, and potential, beyond what is stated on their applic https://eliteprep.com/blog/16-factors-influencing-college-admission-decisions/ https://eliteprep.com/blog/16-factors-influencing-college-admission-decisions/ Fri, 08 Nov 2024 20:59:12 GMT The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) survey, conducted in fall 2023, examines 16 factors influencing college admission decisions, including academic coursework and grades, test scores, application essays, recommendation letters, and students’ “demonstrated interest” in a