Advisor Questions and Answers

Answers to questions frequently asked by parents and students applying to colleges. Post your questions and receive responses from CollegeSimply Advisor and the community.

What Are Good Safety Schools in Louisiana?

I'm thinking about applying to a few schools in Louisiana, like LSU and Tulane, but I'd like to have some good safety schools on my list too. Does anyone have recommendations for less competitive schools in Louisiana that still offer a solid education?

Do some schools care less about superscoring?

I've heard that some colleges may not prioritize superscored results compared to single sittings. Is that true for specific schools, and how can I figure that out?

Is UT Austin Test-Optional?

Does anyone know if UT Austin is test-optional this year? I'm trying to decide if I should retake the SAT because my scores aren't stellar and I don't know if submitting them could hurt my application. Also, any advice on what UT Austin really focuses on in apps would be super helpful!

What are good safety schools in Iowa?

I'm starting my college search and I'm trying to find some good safety schools in Iowa. I want to make sure I've got options close to home if my reach schools don't work out. Any recommendations from those who know Iowa schools well?

Impact of SAT scores on scholarship opportunities in Big 12?

I'm aiming for scholarships at Big 12 schools, and I'm wondering how much weight SAT scores carry. Are there specific score thresholds that could help me secure a good scholarship?

Military college housing comparison?

Has anyone compared the housing at different military colleges like West Point, Naval Academy, and The Citadel? Which one offers the best overall living environment, in your opinion?

Is a 1240 SAT Score Competitive?

I just got my SAT score back and it's a 1240. I'm planning on applying to state schools and a couple of more selective colleges like Georgia Tech. Is this score competitive enough, or should I retake the test to try and improve it? Any advice on what schools I should target with this score?

How important are acceptance rates for HBCUs?

I'm starting to look into HBCUs like Howard and Spelman, and I'm a little confused about how important their acceptance rates are. Should I be worried if an HBCU has a lower acceptance rate compared to others? Does it mean they're more competitive, or is there more to consider when applying?

Is a 30 on the ACT adequate?

Hey, I scored a 30 on my ACT, and I'm not sure if that's competitive enough for solid college options. I've read conflicting statements online, and it's all a bit overwhelming. Would a 30 ACT qualify me for good scholarship opportunities, or should I retake it for a better score, especially for schools like University of Minnesota or CU Boulder? Any advice would help.

Challenges of Naval Academy Admissions

For those who've applied to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, how tough was the admission process? I've heard it's super selective. What parts of the application did you find most challenging?

Can an upward trend in GPA help for USC admissions?

Does USC consider an upward trend in GPA when reviewing applications? I started with average grades but have been improving each semester. Just wondering if that might support my application.

USC

What are some good safety schools in Florida?

I'm starting my college applications and I'm trying to figure out some good safety schools in Florida. I've got my sights set on UF and FSU as my reach schools, but I want to have a solid backup plan. Any recommendations for schools that might be easier to get into but still have a good reputation?

What are USC's admission requirements?

I'm planning to apply to USC, but I'm getting mixed information about their admission requirements. Can someone clarify what GPA and standardized test scores I should aim for? Also, any tips on the type of extracurriculars they value the most?

USC

What Are Good Safety Schools in Minnesota?

I'm looking for some solid safety schools in Minnesota. I've got my sights on a couple like the University of Minnesota, but I want to make sure I have some backup options. Does anyone have recommendations for good safety schools in Minnesota that I should look into?

Understanding College SAT Score Requirements

How do I know what SAT score I need for the colleges I'm interested in? I'm looking at UC Berkeley and Boston University and want to make sure I have a competitive score.

Good GPA for graphic design at SCAD?

I'm applying to the Savannah College of Art and Design for a graphic design program. Any ideas what a strong GPA for admission would be? I've got a 3.2 right now.

What GPA is needed for UT Austin?

Hey, I'm trying to figure out what GPA is competitive for applying to the University of Texas at Austin. I've got a 3.5 right now, and I'm super nervous because I heard UT Austin is tough to get into. Do you think I should be aiming higher? Would any current students or recent applicants mind sharing what GPA they had when they applied?

What GPA Is Needed for Clemson University?

I'm a junior starting to look at colleges, and Clemson University is high on my list. My current GPA is 3.5, and I'm wondering if that's good enough? What GPA should I aim for to have a competitive application? Also, what other factors do they consider to balance out a lower GPA?

Pros and Cons of Taking AP Classes for GPA

What are the pros and cons of taking more AP classes to raise my weighted GPA? I'm trying to gauge if it's worth the extra workload or might hurt my GPA if I don't excel.

Recommended Length for Essays

Is there an ideal length for college essays? While writing for the Common App, I keep wondering if I should aim for the full word limit or if being concise is better.