eCollegeFinder is back with another map series, this time looking at which colleges charge the most for on-campus room and board in each state. We all know how expensive college is these days. From massive tuition fees to costly text books, it really burns a hole in the pocket. Aside from tuition, room and board is usually one of the top expenses for each student. This got us thinking, which colleges charge the most for on-campus living? Is it … [Read more...]
Avoid Expensive Errors While Saving For College
It’s just about back-to-school time again. If you have young children, you might be hustling them to the store for backpacks and binders. But if you fast-forward a few years, you can envision driving your kids a little farther — to their college dorms. And when that day comes, you’ll want to be financially prepared. So you’ll want to avoid making costly mistakes when preparing for, and paying, those big bills. Here are some of the most common of … [Read more...]
New College Ranking Lists Published by Money Magazine
For the longest time, U.S. News & World Report was considered THE college rankings system. Every Fall, a "new" list would be released, which would almost always put Harvard was the best college in America. Every once in a while, it would tie with Princeton. Those rankings were based on many factors, including SAT scores, acceptance rates, and graduation rates. But it did not include many other factors that are becoming increasingly important … [Read more...]
SAT Subject Tests and Average Scores
The College Board, the creator of the original SAT, has also created SAT IIs, better known as SAT Subject Tests, to help students showcase their knowledge in certain subject areas. These Subject Tests are the only national college admissions tests where the students get to choose which subject they want to be tested on. SAT Subject Tests allow students to set themselves apart from other applicants and send a “send a strong message regarding … [Read more...]
How Brand College Consulting can help you save time and money
Why Do You Need an Independent College Consultant? 1. “A house may be the most expensive thing most families buy, but college--which is second most expensive--is far more important in the long run. College decisions are actually more crucial because they affect the teenager’s future” College consultants are specialists in helping you make this important investment and decisions. 2. The college application and admissions process is very … [Read more...]
How to Save for College and Start a 529 Plan
Parents of college-bound students know that the costs of college has risen dramatically. The College Board, the creator of the SAT, conducts a survey of average college pricing from universities across the country. For the 2013-14 academic year, the average cost for an in-state public college is $22,826, while the average private college is $44,750. These costs include tuition, room and board, fees, books, and an allowance for personal … [Read more...]
Testimonials from Clients
"Thanks so much, you could not have been more helpful and supportive throughout this process. We all appreciate the special attention and promptness you have given us." -Parent of Clear Lake High School student, class of 2014 "Thank you so much for your help! K’s SAT scores increased over 200 points after taking your prep class in September. She is now much more confident about college choices and I’m sure she’s in a better position for … [Read more...]
For High School Counselors and Teachers
Is your teenager’s high school counselor an expert on college? Probably not. In fact, the odds are high that your high school counselor’s knowledge about college admission strategies, standardized testing and scholarships, and financial aid is limited. Ironically, during this period of increasing college costs, financial aid is often the subject that high school counselors know the least about. Many high school counselors are unfortunately … [Read more...]
AP Scores Available Online
For the first time, AP scores will be available to students online for free. In the past, students have had to wait through most of July to receive their scores which were only available by paper. CollegeBoard will no longer be sending paper score reports to homes by mail. As of July 2013, students will be able to access their scores online through the CollegeBoard. Students must have a CollegeBoard account, as well as their AP number to … [Read more...]
5 Things Students Can Do To Improve Chance of College Acceptance
College consultants are frequently asked by parents how to improve their child's chances of getting accepted into dream colleges. Most times, these answers depend on the student and the college in question, but there are 5 things that every student can do to improve college acceptance and admissions chances. Focus on Grades Students can re-focus on their grades and GPA to ensure the highest possible grade points are achieved each … [Read more...]