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.

How does superscoring work for the SAT at USC?

I'm applying to USC and heard about SAT superscoring but I'm confused about how it works. Do they only look at the best score for each section across multiple tests? And will it really improve my chances of getting in?

USC

What are my chances of getting into UT Austin?

So I'm a junior getting ready to apply to The University of Texas at Austin, and I have a 3.7 GPA with decent extracurricular activities. I've also been involved in my school's art club and basketball team. Anyone know how competitive UT Austin really is and what else can improve my chances here?

Boston College vs. Villanova for pre-law track?

Boston College or Villanova for someone on a pre-law track? Which has stronger advising and extracurricular opportunities related to law? Personal stories would help a ton!

Campus life at Vanderbilt University?

I'm thinking about applying to Vanderbilt in Nashville, but I'm curious about what the campus life is actually like. Is it as lively as I've heard? Anyone know what students do for fun there and how the social scene is?

Brown University Open Curriculum Explained

Can someone explain what Brown University's open curriculum is all about? I've heard it allows for more flexibility, but how does that work in practice? Considering if that's the right fit for me.

What SAT score is needed for Clemson?

I'm stressing about my SAT scores because I really want to get into Clemson University. Does anyone know what kind of score they're looking for? Also, would they consider a slightly lower score if other parts of my application are strong? Any advice would be appreciated!

NYU vs. Columbia for arts management?

Would you choose NYU or Columbia for a degree in arts management? I'm rummaging through info on their internships and extracurricular opportunities related to the arts scene!

Chances of Admission to University of Southern California?

I've got a 3.8 GPA and a score of 1450 on my SAT. I'm also involved in drama club and volunteer at a local animal shelter. What are my chances of getting into the University of Southern California? Does anyone have insights on what they prioritize in their applicants?

USC

Does applying to honors colleges affect my odds?

Applied to a few honors colleges like Barrett at ASU and am wondering if that affiliation impacts general acceptance rates or if it's entirely separate.

ASU

Understanding Stanford's Waitlist Policy?

Hey everyone! I got waitlisted at Stanford, and I'm freaking out a bit. Does anyone know how their waitlist policy works? Like, what are the chances of actually getting accepted off it, and is there anything I can do to increase my odds?

Submitting Randomized Essay Themes

Is it off-putting to write about multiple, seemingly unrelated themes in different essays if I'm applying to schools like MIT? I've got diverse interests but worry it might seem chaotic.

MIT

Using AP Courses for Elective Credits?

Can AP courses count as electives? I've got several AP credits and want to use them when I apply to Brown or UChicago.

Is a 22 ACT score competitive?

Hi! I just got back my ACT results, and I scored a 22. I'm kind of anxious because I'm not sure if it's enough for the schools I'm looking at. I'm mainly interested in mid-size state schools, but I won't rule out a few privates. How competitive is this score? Should I consider retaking the test, or is it good enough for most admissions? Any advice from others with similar experiences would be super helpful!

What are some good safety schools in Arkansas?

I'm starting my college search and I know I need a few safety schools on my list. I'm interested in staying in Arkansas. Can anyone recommend some solid safety schools here that have good programs and campus life? Would really appreciate any suggestions from personal experience or recommendations.

Impact of reciprocity agreements on tuition costs

What are tuition reciprocity agreements, and how can they help with out-of-state tuition costs? Thinking about applying to college in nearby states and wondering if these agreements can give me a better deal.

FSU Transfer Acceptance Rate Insight?

Hey, does anyone know what the transfer acceptance rate is for Florida State University? I'm currently at community college in Florida and considering a transfer next year. I'm curious about my chances and if anyone has tips for making that transition smoother. Any former transfers willing to share their experience and advice? Thanks!

SAT 1460: Is it a Competitive Score?

I got my SAT results and I scored a 1460. I'm trying to figure out if this is a competitive score or if I should consider retaking it. Do you think a 1460 is a good score for top-tier schools, or should I aim higher? I'm also curious about how much more a higher score might improve my chances overall.

What are some safety schools in Virginia?

Hey, I'm starting to look at colleges in Virginia and I'm trying to figure out some good safety schools to apply to. I've got a decent GPA and SAT scores but want a few backup options just in case. Any suggestions on schools that might be a safer bet?

Housing options for freshmen at Ohio University?

Hey, I'm planning to apply to Ohio University next fall. Can anyone tell me what the freshman dorms are like and if it's required to live on campus during your first year? Any tips on the best dorms to choose from?

Can Recommendation Letters Be Submitted After Deadline?

I'm worried my teacher might submit my recommendation letter a bit late. I know the college apps deadline for USC is coming up soon. Is it okay to submit the letters after the official deadline, or should I just ask another teacher who can submit it on time?

USC