The college decision is a $100K–$300K financial choice. Treat it like one.

We publish data-driven guides for students and parents navigating college, trade school, military, and gap years.


Featured
Building Your College List: A Strategic Approach
How to build a balanced college list using the reach/match/safety framework, with data on how many schools to apply to and how to evaluate your odds.
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Latest
Building Your College List
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Coalition vs Common App
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Common App Walkthrough
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Application Deadlines
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Researching Colleges
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Explore by Topic
Is College Right for You?
ROI calculators, alternative paths, financial reality checks.
UC System
GPA calculators, campus guides, PIQ essays, TAG program details, and admission stats for all University of California campuses.
College Applications
Common App guides, Coalition App tips, deadline calendars, school research strategies, and application tracking.
College Essays
Personal statement strategies, supplemental essay guides, real examples, editing tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
International Universities
UK universities, Canadian schools, European options, international application processes, and visa guides.
Test Prep & Academics
SAT vs ACT comparisons, prep course reviews, study strategies, AP class guidance, and test-optional school lists.
Paying for College
FAFSA guides, scholarship search strategies, financial aid tips, student loan comparisons, and work-study information.
Extracurriculars
Summer programs, research opportunities, volunteering guides, sports recruiting, and leadership development.

Tools
College ROI Calculator
Compare the long-term financial return of different colleges, factoring in tuition, financial aid, expected earnings, and student debt.
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UC GPA Calculator
Calculate your weighted and unweighted UC GPA with AP and honors course adjustments. See where you stand for each campus.
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Schools Database
Compare schools by admission rate, cost of attendance, median earnings, and student debt. Filter and sort to find your fit.
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