It's wise to prepare for not only the content of the tests, but for the experience of testing itself. These tips cover what to do the day before the test, test day, after the test, and when the results arrive. …

We interview a recent high school graduate on when she knew singing was her passion, how she decided to pursue music in college, what the college search and admissions process is like for a music major, and what her college coursework will look like. …

We break down the differences between Early Decision (when a student agrees to submit an enrollment deposit and enroll in that school if admitted) and Early Action (when a student finds out the decision on the application early, but with no commitment). …

Our checklist includes checking the College Scorecard to learn about affordability and value, using a school's Net Price Calculator to determine the financial aid you could receive, and reading through admissions and financial aid websites to learn about merit scholarship and different financing opportunities. …

Find out the acceptance rate, graduation rate, total student enrollment, average cost after financial aid, typical annual alumnus/a income 10 years after enrollment, typical total student debt after graduation, and typical monthly loan payment all in one easily accessible place.…

Read up on several resources the Common App provides on its website to help you create an account, add an advisor, watch videos, search for schools, set up a practice account, complete the application, reach out for assistance, and connect on social media. …

Get an early start on tasks like evaluating testing plans, visiting college campuses, finalizing a balanced college list, preparing recommendations, writing the college essay, designing a financial plan, starting applications, preparing for interviews, and fulfilling any specific requirements…

Students can learn how to use social media to their advantage in the college admissions process by following these tips, including googling yourself, thinking before you post, and making connections with colleges and other students. …

These questions can help students as they begin the college search, including what are my post-secondary goals, what academic opportunities are important to me, what careers interest me, what learning environment fits me best, and what off-campus, extracurricular, and social opportunities am I interested in pursuing?…

Andrew Carter encourages parents to begin the college search process by thinking about the qualities and skills they want their son or daughter to have in order to be successful when they begin their college career and laying out these goals in a list.…