"Lateral moves" in the college essay/application revision process

Written by Andy Simpson, CEG Editorial Director Considering how much pressure students can feel during the college application process, it’s not surprising that some can get a little… obsessive, say… over making tiny changes, wanting every word to be juuuust so, thinking that that’s what the Admissions Officers reading the essay care about. But here’s … Read more

WELCOME TO THE WAITLIST

Maybe? After all, the waitlist is probably not exactly where you were hoping to be. It’s the admission decision no one tends to expect. You worked hard on your applications, applied to great schools, and waited to find out if you were admitted or denied. Decision day comes and surprise! It’s neither a YES nor … Read more

a guide to how grants work + list of grants

The U.S. federal government offers grants to help students afford college, with eligibility often based on financial need. Pell Grants The Pell Grant is a need-based federal grant for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. For the 2024-2025 school year, the maximum Pell Grant award is $7,395, but the amount you receive … Read more

California Scholarships Guide

1. Patriots Path Scholarship This scholarship supports JROTC and ROTC cadets who are planning to attend college in California. If you’re a student committed to leadership, service, and discipline, this could be a great opportunity to help fund your education.  Amount: $1,000 Apply here!   2. Brian (Animal) Shaw Memorial Scholarship Created in memory of … Read more

Write My Essay Help Tips for Crafting an Inspirational Essay

Essay writing, if done rightly, is a highly rewarding process. But for many writers, it is tough to research and gain inspiration for expressing their thoughts correctly. Most students who need to compose an inspirational essay ask, ‘Can someone write my essay so I can score good marks?’ Although you need to do some work … Read more

Standardized Testing Guide for First Gen and/or Low Income Students

The language colleges use about testing can also tell you a lot about how they actually view scores: Strongly Test-Optional—Clear Message That You’re Not Penalized Bowdoin College “Testing is optional. Applicants are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by submitting standardized test scores.” Smith College “Testing is not required for admission. We will not consider scores if … Read more

Key Differences Parents and Students Should Understand

Introduction to 504 Plans and IEPs You know your child needs support, but the path forward seems foggy at best. You’re sitting in a meeting room with school administrators, but with the acronyms and jargon being used, maybe you feel as though you’re speaking different languages. Been there? You’re not alone. Navigating the world of … Read more