The
Insider Blog
College admissions and finance advice from the experts. The Insider blog is where College Coach experts weigh in on the latest college admissions topics. We cover everything from application timelines and strategies to tips on financing your child's education.
The Benefits of Working During College: Experience, Mentorship, and Community
Custodial Parent Rules for Financial Aid: How FAFSA and CSS Profile Differ
Colleges That Made Admissions a Little Easier in 2025: Our Top Picks for Transparency and Support
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Exploring High School Options
High school planning starts earlier than many families realize. Beyond the neighborhood public school, options may include independent, parochial, vocational, and magnet schools. Families can explore programs, visit open houses, and consider their student's interests, learning style, and goals before making enrollment decisions.
Viral Doesn't Mean Valuable: Should You Trust College Essay Advice on Social Media?
Whether it's coming from a current college student, a parent of a recent college admit, or an "armchair" expert, you're constantly being flooded with new information about the college essay process. Writing college essays can feel overwhelming, and students naturally want tips that make the process easier. But what advice should you take? Who is a credible source to turn to?
4 Ways to Make the Most of the UC Activities & Awards Section
As applicants craft their Activities & awards section, they should keep in mind the comprehensive review factors that the UC considers, like intellectual and social contributions, determination, initiative, leadership, and maturity.
5 Tips for Homeschool Students Planning for College
Just as the homeschool population has grown, so too has competition in college admissions. Read on for five early steps homeschool students can take as they consider courses, standardized testing, and activities.
Why Families Paying for College Should Consider a Monthly Payment Plan
Before borrowing to cover a tuition bill, families should check whether the college offers a payment plan. These interest-free options let families spread costs over time, potentially reducing education debt. Some schools even offer discounts for full-year plans, making them a smart alternative to student or parent loans.
Writing the "Why this major" Supplemental Essay
One of the most common college application supplemental essays asks, “Why this major?” The key to these essays is detail and personalization. Admissions officers want to understand what sparked the student's interest, how they’ve explored it, and how specific opportunities at the prospective college will help them continue learning.
Top Money Mistakes First-Year College Students Make
The first year of college is, for many students, the first time they will manage their own bills, day-to-day spending, and budgeting. Our finance expert shares five mistakes that, if avoided, will make college less stressful and empower students to start building their financial futures.
The Hidden Costs of College
Tuition isn’t the only cost to consider when applying to college. Technology or equipment fees, housing and meals, transportation—not to mention the long-term cost of loans—should all be factored into your budget.
Financial Aid Advice for First-Generation College Students
Paying for college as a first-generation student can feel overwhelming for the entire family. Our finance expert—a first-gen student herself—shares advice on how to ask questions, understand aid offers, and be a self-advocate.
How to Approach Secondary Medical School Applications
The secondary medical school application process includes essays that should be taken just as seriously as the main application personal statement.
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Interested in learning more about how our college admissions counseling services can help your student succeed?Call 877-402-6224 or complete the form for information on getting your student started with one of our experts.
