Scoir Blog

7 min read

FAFSA & CSS Profile: Guide to Understanding Financial Aid

Erin Barnes: August 26, 2025

Financial aid for college is available through several different sources. Understanding the types of financial aid sources is paramount in minimizing...

2 min read

How to Prepare for NACAC 2025

Abby deSilva: August 25, 2025

So, you’ve signed up for NACAC. You have your ticket and transportation planned, but odds are, you’ve been so busy it’s been hard to think ahead much...

4 min read

TLDW: Unlocking Visits+ Premium Webinar

Jen Baselice: August 21, 2025

Missed our July 24th webinar, Unlocking Visits+ Premium, where we introduced the enhanced Visits+ platform and offered a sneak peek at Visits+...

5 min read

Back-to-School Checklist for Counselors

Abby deSilva: July 29, 2025

Another school year is beginning! ☀️ As you plan for the upcoming school year, we'd like to share some helpful back-to-school housekeeping items to...

2 min read

For Parents/Guardians: Checklist for Back to School

Elena Polin: July 25, 2025

As a parent or guardian, a new school year can be a wild time. Especially if college planning is on your mind. Financial aid, building a college...

4 min read

The Most Effective Way to Prepare for the ACT, SAT, and PSAT

Sara Laszlo: July 23, 2025

If you’re getting ready to take the ACT, SAT, and/or PSAT, you may be wondering how to prepare. Where do you start? What’s the best way to practice?...

5 min read

8 College Enrollment Marketing Tools for Your 2025 Strategy

Abby deSilva: June 26, 2025

The pressure is on. With the college admissions landscape in a season of tremendous change and a shrinking pool of students to reach via traditional...

13 min read

The Ins and Outs of the Enhanced ACT

Sara Laszlo: June 13, 2025

This blog post was provided by Test Innovators, our test prep partner. You can learn more about Test Innovators on our partners page.

4 min read

Intentionality in the College Search Process

Peter Van Buskirk: April 29, 2025

When it comes time to think about college, it’s important to slow down and consider why you'd like to attend college and engage in conscious...

4 min read

You're In. Now What? Strategies For Evaluating Enrollment Options

Peter Van Buskirk: April 25, 2025

Congratulations! After months of waiting, you have now heard from the colleges you applied to and, odds are, you’ve been admitted to more than one!...

8 min read

Tips for Requesting Letters of Recommendation (Helpful Form Included)

Erin Barnes: April 24, 2025

Completing your college applications is undoubtedly a big task. As you focus on checking off the to-dos and getting closer to having a complete...

2 min read

Strategies for Choosing Your High School Courses [Podcast Recap]

Abby deSilva: April 17, 2025

This article is a recap of an episode from our podcast: Course Selection: Strategies for Choosing Your High School Courses. Are you a junior or...

7 min read

Considering Scoir for Your High School? Here’s What You Need to Know

Abby deSilva: April 10, 2025

Hey there, counselors! 👋

4 min read

Comparing the Coalition and Common App Essay Prompts

Erin Barnes: April 09, 2025

As part of your college application process, many colleges will require an admissions essay. This is your opportunity to highlight your strengths,...

3 min read

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer

Elena Polin: April 09, 2025

Hey, it’s Elena! Summer is nearly here (thank gosh ☀️) and for right now, you’re probably thinking, “I’ll be seeing my friends all summer, thank...

5 min read

Your Guide to Merit Scholarships: 8 Types Every Family Should Know

Matt Carpenter: April 04, 2025

This post comes to you from our friends at College Aid Pro, here to help make paying for college a little less stressful.

3 min read

Spark Career Curiosity Early with Scoir for Middle Schools

Abby deSilva: March 24, 2025

As a middle school counselor, you know that Gen Alpha has their own way of saying things (What is Skibidi? Who knows).

4 min read

Tips to Support 10th and 11th Graders This Spring 🎥 Webinar Recap

Abby deSilva: February 21, 2025

This blog post is a recap of an event Scoir held with Test Innovators. You can learn more about Test Innovators on our partners page. With...

3 min read

Finding Internships in a Virtual Working World

Abby deSilva: February 05, 2025

Remote internships were one of the most important parts of my college experience. Through remote internships, I got a glimpse into what it would be...

4 min read

Why Counselors Love Scoir

Abby deSilva: January 09, 2025

We love hearing from our community! We especially enjoy hearing how Scoir helps counselors support students. 🙌

3 min read

Update on College Naming and Closings

Elena Polin: December 20, 2024

As colleges and universities change their names, we want to keep you apprised of these updates so that you can properly advise your students as they...

6 min read

SAT and ACT Resource Guide: From Free Prep to Private Tutoring

Julie Kampschroeder: December 19, 2024

“Help! My daughter is a junior, and I have no idea what to do. Should she take the SAT? The ACT? How should she prepare? Do we use a tutor? An online...

2 min read

Unpacking Scoir 2024

Abby deSilva: December 18, 2024

Another year is in the bag 🎒

6 min read

Navigating Higher Education Budgeting

Abby deSilva: December 11, 2024

Today is a unique time for college admissions and enrollment marketing.

3 min read

Ways to Maximize Your Higher Education Budget in 2025

Abby deSilva: December 11, 2024

Even if you’re not a finance director at your institution, your college’s budget impacts your day-to-day.

2 min read

6 Ways to Make the Most of Your Winter Break ❄️

Elena Polin: November 26, 2024

Hey, it’s Elena! It's already the holiday season (YAY!) and winter break is just around the corner ❄️ Here are 6 ways (self-productive and...

6 min read

How Middle School Counselors Can Help Families Succeed

Middle school is a time of transformation. Kids are growing up fast, and it can feel like a whirlwind of change for students and families.

6 min read

It's About the Kids: Student-Centered Enrollment Marketing Trends

Mindy Rose: November 15, 2024

When I started college admissions counseling 20 years ago, students would come to meetings hefting heavy boxes of viewbooks they'd received from...

3 min read

Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC 📆 Event Recap

Elizabeth McGonigle: November 13, 2024

We recently hosted the event: Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC. This blog post provides a recap of what we covered during the event.

3 min read

5 Details to Finalize Before Submitting Your College Applications

Erin Barnes: November 04, 2024

Seniors, it's November. AKA college application time!

2 min read

Event 📆 Get Your Last-Minute College Application Questions Answered

Abby deSilva: October 25, 2024

Are you a senior stressing about finishing your college apps? 😥

4 min read

Content Topics to Consider for Each Enrollment Funnel Stage

Abby deSilva: October 24, 2024

Is your enrollment funnel less full than you'd like?

7 min read

Higher Education Email Marketing Must-Knows

Abby deSilva: October 17, 2024

Email marketing for higher ed is stressful. There's nothing quite like the anxiety of pressing "send" on an email for thousands of people.

3 min read

Ways Scoir Solves Data Management Challenges for School Counselors

Abby deSilva: October 14, 2024

Odds are, as a school counselor, you’re faced with hundreds of daily tasks.

5 min read

How to Use Scoir to Optimize Your Counseling Responsibilities

Kelly Weber: October 14, 2024

It’s the first day of school. The halls buzz with eager students reuniting to discuss their summer breaks and new course schedules.

5 min read

How to Convince Your Principal to Move Forward with Scoir

Kelly Weber: October 09, 2024

To our high school counselors, college counselors, directors, post-secondary advisors, CTE directors, and supervisors: we know you wear many...

4 min read

For Counselors: How to Power Scattergrams for Your High School

Valerie Russell: October 09, 2024

Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, Scattergrams are popular among students, parents, and guardians.

4 min read

College and Career Planning Checklist for 12th Graders

Erin Barnes: October 09, 2024

Your senior year is approaching! After years of hard work, you’ve decided to apply to college (or pursue a career!). Needless to say, this year is...

2 min read

The Test Anxiety Battle Guide

Abby deSilva: September 17, 2024

When I was a teen, I struggled with debilitating test anxiety. I had trouble sleeping because I kept worrying about the test. I'd worry about getting...

1 min read

Reconsidering Standardized Testing

Julie Kampschroeder: September 16, 2024

In the past few years, colleges and universities across the United States have reconsidered their testing policies, with most going test-optional....

4 min read

What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges [Event Recap]

Abby deSilva: September 13, 2024

We recently hosted: What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges. This blog post provides a recap of what we covered during the event.

1 min read

Coalition's Fall Events

Elena Polin: September 09, 2024

https://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/event/completing-fafsa-2022

5 min read

Life After the PSAT: Making the Most of Your PSAT Results

Peter Van Buskirk: September 04, 2024

For many high schoolers, the release of PSAT results will start to give more definition to potential college options. As momentous as the unveiling...

7 min read

The Ins and Outs of the PSAT

Sara Laszlo: August 21, 2024

This blog post was provided by Test Innovators, our test prep partner. You can learn more about Test Innovators on our partners page.

3 min read

Narrowing Down Your College List Before Applying

Julie Kampschroeder: August 07, 2024

With about 5,300 colleges and universities to choose from in the United States, you'll want to start narrowing down your college list during your...

2 min read

Dorm Room Essentials

Elena Polin: August 05, 2024

Hiiiii! It's Elena, and if it's ~summertime~ by you, you might be curious about what to pack for college. In this podcast episode, we talk about Dorm...

3 min read

6 Ways to Save Money While in College

Julie Kampschroeder: July 31, 2024

As of 2023, the average American student loan debt was $37,338 for a bachelor's degree.

2 min read

Virtual Resources for the College Admission Journey

Julie Kampschroeder: July 22, 2024

Thanks to ingenious virtual resources, you can access the information you need to continue your college journey without ever leaving home. Here are...

5 min read

The Enrollment Cliff from a Gen Zer's Perspective

Abby deSilva: July 17, 2024

Higher education has been through the wringer these past few years, with little signs of those challenges letting up. And now, what colleges have...

3 min read

5 Questions to Ask Your Child to Help Them Find College and Career Fit

Erin Barnes: July 15, 2024

So, you’d like to be involved in your child’s college search, but you’re not sure how to go about it without inadvertently taking over the process....

1 min read

How to Get Started on Scoir as a Parent or Guardian

Abby deSilva: July 10, 2024

You may have been invited because your student found Scoir or uses the platform at school. You may also be interested in better supporting your...

1 min read

How the Little Things Make Your College Essay Stand Out

Elena Polin: July 08, 2024

Hey, it's Elena! Are you looking for that unique twist to make your college essay stand out? 🌟 It might actually be in your niche laptop stickers or...

2 min read

5 Biggest Tips on How to Stand Out on Your College Essay This Fall

Elena Polin: July 03, 2024

Hey, it’s Elena! Scoir and College Essay Guy recently hosted an event: How to Stand Out on Your College Essays This Fall. In case you missed it,...

1 min read

The Don't Sweat It's and Don't Forget It's of Your College Application

Elena Polin: July 01, 2024

It's ⚠️ TIME TO BE REAL ⚠️ in your college application! It turns out you can use humor and show your personality in your application and we'll tell...

2 min read

Supplemental Essay Guides from College Essay Guy

Elena Polin: June 25, 2024

Are you looking for some extra guidance on your supplemental essays? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore College Essay Guy's incredible...

6 min read

Researching Different Types of Higher Education

Elena Polin: June 24, 2024

Hi there! I'm Elena. If you’re anything like I was, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed by the college application process. I get it: it feels...

4 min read

Finding a College That's a Good Fit for Your Academic Needs

Erin Barnes: June 18, 2024

Are you a strong swimmer or do you prefer to wade into shallow water where the bottom is visible and footing is certain? Most people expose...

4 min read

The Beginning Stages of Creating a College List: 6 Tips to Get Started

Erin Barnes: June 17, 2024

If you’re a student considering applying to college, you've probably been told by many people in your life to create a college list. But the question...

3 min read

Everything You Need to Know About CEEB Codes for High Schools

Kelly Weber: June 12, 2024

As school counselors and high school administrators, we’ve all heard the term CEEB code during standardized testing and the college admissions...

4 min read

College and Career Planning Checklist for 11th Graders

Erin Barnes: June 10, 2024

Junior year of high school is a key point in the college planning process. Between preparing for standardized tests and keeping up with...

4 min read

Likely/Level/Reach: Create the Best College List for You

Elena Polin: June 07, 2024

Creating your college list can feel overwhelming (cue "brutal" by Olivia Rodrigo). I get it—I'm here to help! Once you know what kind of college...

11 min read

The Landscape of College Testing

Peter Van Buskirk: June 05, 2024

This is a transcription of a podcast episode from March 2021 where we sat down with Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter...

2 min read

Coalition's Summer Events for Students

Elena Polin: June 03, 2024

Want to plan ahead for senior year? Curious about the college admissions process and want a place to ask your questions? Sign up for these upcoming...

3 min read

Navigating College Choices: Counselor Tips for Student and Parent/Guardian Harmony

Abby deSilva: May 29, 2024

This blog post is a recap of an Inside College Admissions podcast episode, hosted by Scoir. Listen to the podcast episode here.

4 min read

Interested in a Gap Year? Why It Might Be the Best Decision for You

Karen Miller: May 28, 2024

For many parents/guardians, it might be a daunting idea to let their student take a gap year off of school before leaving for college. Most parents...

6 min read

College vs University [And Other Higher Education Institutions]

Peter Van Buskirk: May 23, 2024

Sorting through higher education options can be like choosing from diverse menu offerings at a great restaurant. You can order fish or steak. What...

2 min read

A Successful Strategy for Applying to College Scholarships

Julie Kampschroeder: May 22, 2024

By the summer between your junior and senior year of high school, you have likely figured out that every step of the college admissions process...

4 min read

College Decision Day! Parents, Don't Be Afraid to Let Go

Karen Miller: May 21, 2024

College decision time is here, and many students are still uncertain about which college they will attend. What makes this year even more difficult...

4 min read

The Best Ways to Get Out in Front of Learning Differences

Peter Van Buskirk: May 17, 2024

A critical element of your college application is your ability to bring clarity to the interpretation of your academic record. In other words, when...

6 min read

Going on a College Tour? Helpful Prep Tips + College Evaluation Form

Abby deSilva: May 15, 2024

Juniors and seniors...are college visits on your mind? Not sure how to prepare or what to expect?

7 min read

College Search Guide: Learning Disabilities and Attention Disorders

Karen Miller: May 10, 2024

Most parents worry about sending their son or daughter off to college. However, for those parents whose children have learning disabilities or...

1 min read

Get Ready for the SAT and ACT with Test Innovators 🏆

Sara Laszlo: May 09, 2024

The Test Innovators personalized, self-paced practice platform makes getting ready for the SAT and ACT a breeze! 🪁

3 min read

How to Read a Financial Aid Award Letter [With 2 Examples]

Julie Kampschroeder: May 09, 2024

You've narrowed down your list of colleges, sent in your applications, and filled out your FAFSA form online. After you receive your acceptance...

3 min read

How to Build Meaningful Connections with Students on Scoir

Abby deSilva: May 06, 2024

Imagine being a high school student right now.

4 min read

The Cost of Traditional Student Recruitment

Elizabeth McGonigle: May 01, 2024

When my great aunt was 18 years old, living on the family farm, and attending a small schoolhouse in rural western Pennsylvania, a representative...

5 min read

Key Themes from the 2020-2021 Recruitment Cycle

This article is based on a series of conversations we had with Scoir Partner Colleges in 2021. While this content is specific to recruitment themes...

3 min read

A Guide on Inbound Marketing for Admissions

Abby deSilva: April 23, 2024

Inbound marketing is all about education.

3 min read

Why Scoir Isn't Your Typical College Student Recruitment Tool

Did you know that approximately 60% of high schoolers enroll in college? Of those that go to college, only about 60% graduate.

4 min read

How to Help Your Students Through the FAFSA Verification Process

Julie Kampschroeder: April 15, 2024

Please note: This article has been updated to reflect the new FAFSA changes. For more information, please refer to What You Need to Know About the...

3 min read

Helping Your High Schooler Take Ownership of their College Search

Erin Barnes: April 13, 2024

The college search and application process is more confusing and overwhelming than in years past. It’s not realistic to expect your high schooler to...

3 min read

Recruiting Gen Z: Best Practices for Prospective Student Communications

Abby deSilva: April 12, 2024

Curious about strategies to recruit Gen Z? We surveyed high school students using Scoir about their college search to gain insights into the...

8 min read

Disrupted: A College Admission Season Unlike Any Other

Peter Van Buskirk: April 09, 2024

March 13, 2020—Friday the 13th, nonetheless—will long be remembered, in a cruel and prophetic twist of irony, as the date when the emerging...

4 min read

How to Convince Your Team to Add Scoir to Your Recruitment Strategy

Abby deSilva: April 08, 2024

As a college admissions professional, you know your way around enrollment marketing tools. Especially this time of year, the pressure is on to...

6 min read

What You Need to Know About the New FAFSA

Abby deSilva: April 01, 2024

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), managed by the Department of Education, is the gateway to federal and state financial aid for...

3 min read

Scoir Expands Through Cristo Rey Network Partnership, Leaders in College and Career Readiness for Underserved Students

Abby deSilva: March 27, 2024

WEST CHESTER, Mar. 27, 2024 – The Cristo Rey Network, one of America's most renowned high school networks enrolling historically underserved...

7 min read

The Student/Parent Partnership in College Planning

Peter Van Buskirk: March 15, 2024

Five Keys to Success In Moving the College Process Forward While Maintaining Your Sanity!

4 min read

Course Selection: Why Your High School Class Decisions are Important

Erin Barnes: March 05, 2024

For many high schools, course selection for the next school year begins as early as January. So, the fall is often a good time to consider your next...

1 min read

For CBOs: Join the Scoir Network

Becky Torre: February 14, 2024

Verified CBOs can now join the Scoir Network, all for just a one-time $500 set up fee! (And, as always, at no cost for students and families.) 🚀...

10 min read

Colleges: It’s Time to Reconsider Name Buys

This is an abridged version of a 2021 podcast episode where we sat down with a high school counselor to discuss why colleges should rethink their...

3 min read

February Senior Year Checklist for College-Bound Students

Erin Barnes: February 02, 2024

February of senior year of high school can be a quiet, yet intense time if you’re a college-bound student. At this point, your difficult application...

4 min read

Conversation Starter: Talking with Your Teen About College

Erin Barnes: January 31, 2024

We live in a society that is inherently destination-oriented. We’re constantly considering our next step, big or small. This becomes even more...

3 min read

The Step-by-Step Guide to Scoir for Enrollment Marketing Teams

Abby deSilva: January 29, 2024

Looking to diversify your enrollment marketing strategy this upcoming cycle? If you’ve identified Scoir as a good fit for your team, 1) we’re honored...

2 min read

Coalition's Winter/Spring Events for Students

Elena Polin: January 17, 2024

Looking for details on the new FAFSA changes? Trying to navigate the admissions process as a first generation college student? As we settle back into...

3 min read

Quotes to Consider from Admissions Leaders

We’ve met with admissions leaders to discuss how they're navigating the changes in the recruitment process as part of the Inside College Admissions...

3 min read

A Guide for High School Students: Evaluating College Summer Programs

Erin Barnes: December 21, 2023

It's never too early to plan for your summers during high school! ☀️ This is especially true for high school juniors. If you’re considering attending...

1 min read

2023 Year in Review

Abby deSilva: December 20, 2023

Happy Holidays! Everyone in the Scoir community plays a huge part in our success, and we’re so thankful that you’re here with us. Scoir wouldn’t be...

4 min read

January To-Do List for College-Bound Juniors

Julie Kampschroeder: December 20, 2023

January is a milestone month for college-bound high schoolers. While seniors will feel a sense of calm, having submitted all of their applications by...

5 min read

The Ins and Outs of the Digital SAT

Sara Laszlo: December 18, 2023

The SAT has been around for nearly 100 years (the first test was administered in 1926!). Since then, the SAT has undergone some changes, but the...

4 min read

Challenges Facing Higher Education Present Great Opportunity

Erin Barnes: December 14, 2023

Now, more than ever, higher education finds itself presented with an opportunity. The opportunity to change, fundamentally, in order to serve more...

2 min read

BTS: Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid

Becky Torre: December 12, 2023

This past November, 3 members of the Scoir team (including us, Becky and Ashley! 👋) and 2 members of our community flew to sunny Boca Raton to share...

3 min read

Follow Today, Unfollow Tomorrow: Why Students Lose Interest in Colleges

At Scoir, we help students find the right college by answering the questions, “Will I fit in?”, “Can I get in?”, and “Can I afford it?” Students...

3 min read

6 Ways Scoir Expands Equity and Access

With the Supreme Court Decision regarding Affirmative Action and the impending Search Cliff, pursuing equity and access has become even more...

2 min read

Viewpoint Educational Program Partners with Scoir for Special Episode

MIAMI, Nov. 15, 2023-- Viewpoint, the renowned educational program hosted by the acclaimed actor Dennis Quaid, is proud to announce a brand new...

5 min read

ACT or SAT? Everything You Need to Know to Choose the Best Test for You

Abby deSilva: October 31, 2023

Knowing whether to take the SAT or ACT can help relieve some of the stressors caused by the college admissions process. Students usually take the...

2 min read

The 6 Critical Components of College Applications

Erin Barnes: October 24, 2023

If you assume that grades, test scores, and transcripts are the only items that matter to admission officers, you’re missing the whole picture! We’d...

3 min read

Operationalizing Your Prospective Student Communications

Caroline Smiegal: October 13, 2023

As former admissions recruiters and communications managers, we know how easy it is to become overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages going out to...

3 min read

What College Admission Decision Makers Are Really Looking For

Kalyn Barker: October 11, 2023

There are so many things that can make you stand out when applying to colleges. This begs the question: what are the primary attributes to help you...

6 min read

A Guide to College Application Deadlines

Peter Van Buskirk: October 06, 2023

College application season is upon us! Many high school seniors likely still have questions about where and how to apply as deadlines loom. Despite...

4 min read

Former High School Counselor: How Scoir Keeps Students at the Center

Keegan Woyurka: October 05, 2023

As I think about the various features released in Scoir to help students and their supporters, it makes me reflect on my work both prior to Scoir and...

3 min read

Reacting to Early Decision & Early Action Decision Letters: Plan Your Next Steps

Erin Barnes: October 04, 2023

With Halloween decorations everywhere and holiday decorations already for sale, thoughts of winter break are starting to emerge. December, after all,...

2 min read

For Students: Discover Careers (and Yourself!) with PrinciplesYou

Valerie Russell: October 03, 2023

When choosing a career path to pursue, there are SO many considerations. 🤔 What interests me? What major should I declare? Do I possess the...

2 min read

How Applying Early Decision Affects Financial Aid Opportunities

Julie Kampschroeder: September 26, 2023

Applying early decision might improve your odds of being accepted with certainty to your dream school, but it might limit your financial aid...

1 min read

Coalition's Fall Events for Students

Elena Polin: September 22, 2023

Looking for details on the new FAFSA changes? Trying to navigate the admissions process as a first-generation college student? As we settle into...

5 min read

When to Apply Early Decision or Early Action

Peter Van Buskirk: September 22, 2023

With the start of your senior year, you're probably beginning to take stock of life beyond high school. If you're like many others, college will be...

2 min read

How You Can Use Scoir if Your High School Doesn’t

Elena Polin: September 14, 2023

Back to school season is upon us. You’ve likely got some mixed feelings, especially if you’re headed into your last years of high school.

3 min read

Need-Blind vs Need-Aware and Meeting Full Financial Need

Erin Barnes: September 08, 2023

When it comes time to look into financial aid for college, you’re very likely to come across three terms that seem simple enough but actually aren’t...

3 min read

5 College Planning Tools to Explore This Summer

Erin Barnes: September 04, 2023

Whether you’re brand new to or a pro at the college search process, there’s always new information to gather about college planning.

3 min read

How Counselors Can Help Students Get Ready for the SAT and ACT

Sara Laszlo: August 25, 2023

This blog post was provided by Test Innovators, our test prep partner. You can learn more about Test Innovators on our partners page.

5 min read

Ask These 4 Questions Before Choosing the Right College for You

Abby deSilva: August 22, 2023

“Which college is right for me?”

4 min read

How to Know if a College is Right for You: Finding Your Best Fit

Abby deSilva: August 14, 2023

Finding a college that is truly the best fit for you can be a difficult task to accomplish. With over 4,000 colleges and universities across the...

7 min read

What is Score Choice, Superscoring, and Test Flexible?

Karen Miller: August 10, 2023

Most people venturing into the college admission process have heard about the SAT and the ACT tests. Words like score choice, superscoring,...

6 min read

The College Resume: A How-To Guide

Julie Kampschroeder: August 08, 2023

The word "resume" can feel so corporate. It can evoke a general sense of "ugh." 😬 As a junior or senior in high school, you're likely wanting to...

3 min read

What's New in Year 2 of Apply

Elizabeth McGonigle: August 01, 2023

Check out the highlights of what's new for Apply Coalition with Scoir Year 2!

3 min read

The Top Questions Students Ask Us About the New Digital SAT

Abby deSilva: July 26, 2023

This blog post is part of a series between Test Innovators and Scoir. You can read the other part of the series on the Test Innovators blog.

3 min read

How to Engage 2x More Students with Scoir's Advanced Solutions

Abby deSilva: July 12, 2023

College admissions is in a season of tremendous change.

5 min read

What to Know About Residential Colleges & Living Learning Communities

Abby deSilva: July 11, 2023

When most people think about living on campus, they think about the traditional college dorm with beds bunked over desks, shared bathrooms, and a...

7 min read

Inside the Financial Aid Process: A Guide for Students and Parents

Peter Van Buskirk: July 10, 2023

Gaining admission to the college(s) of your choice might weigh heavily on your mind at the moment. The odds are that the prospect of affording...

4 min read

Deferred or Waitlisted: Understanding These Terms and Planning Your Next Steps

Erin Barnes: July 07, 2023

For many of us, the process of applying to college is uncharted territory. Even if you’re surrounded by family and friends who attended college,...

8 min read

Tips and Strategies for a Successful College Admission Interview

Peter Van Buskirk: July 03, 2023

The impressions we make in life are important as we meet people, seek new opportunities, and build relationships. In fact, good impressions can make...

2 min read

Scoir Supports Colleges Challenged by Shifting Admissions Landscape

Abby deSilva: June 30, 2023

This article includes details on the Supreme Court Decision regarding Affirmative Action and the coming Search Cliff resulting from College Board...

1 min read

For Students: Fill Your Summer Schedule!

Elena Polin: June 21, 2023

We're basically like your summer personal assistant 💁 From signing up for events to tips for making the most of your summer, we have everything you...

4 min read

How to Write Recommendation Letters for Your Students

Julie Kampschroeder: June 20, 2023

The weight and responsibility of assisting Title 1 students through the college admissions process is heavy. As counselors, we want to do our best to...

8 min read

How to Write the College Essay: 20 Tips for Success

Peter Van Buskirk: June 13, 2023

You're filling out your daunting college application. They ask for your grades and extracurriculars (check!). Easy. But... you've still got that dang...

2 min read

Family Bootcamp Podcast Mini-Series

Elena Polin: April 28, 2023

For families, especially parents and guardians, the college search and application process can feel like entering a whole new world. Between touring...

2 min read

Spring Refresh: 5 Steps to Discover Your Match 🌷

Elena Polin: March 27, 2023

Hey it’s Elena! It's finally spring (YAY!)! During this time of year, we know a lot of you juniors are getting started on Scoir so...it's time for a...

2 min read

Spring Events for Students & Families

Elena Polin: January 30, 2023

Want to plan ahead for senior year? Curious about the college admissions process and want a place to ask your questions? Sign up for these upcoming...

Giveaway: Celebrate Submitting Your Applications! 🎁

Maggie Caputo: January 23, 2023

Did somebody say giveaway?! 👀🎁🎧⁣ ⁣ We're all about taking time to celebrate the milestone of submitting college applications (S/O @admissionsmom...

1 min read

The Importance of Celebrating Your College Applications

Maggie Caputo: November 15, 2022

Have you submitted your college applications? Congratulations! 🥳 Now is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and even celebrate! We know how much...

1 min read

Advice: Applying to U.S. Colleges as an International Student

Applying to college can be so full of emotions and preparation, especially when you're applying as an international student! Our latest podcast...

3 min read

Introducing A New Way to Apply to College

Becky Torre: August 01, 2022

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine with us.

1 min read

Update: Apply with Scoir

Becky Torre: May 05, 2022

In January, we were thrilled to announce an exciting update about the future of the company. As we move toward the end of this academic year, our...

1 min read

College 101: What They Definitely Didn't Tell You on the Tour

Elena Polin: May 04, 2022

Hey! It's Elena, and I'm taking you to school early with our new "College 101" podcast episode! I asked other college grads for their personal...

1 min read

Spring Refresh: Improvements to College Profiles

Erin Barnes: April 11, 2022

We told you there was more coming to College Profiles, and today we’re pleased to unveil some fresh updates for all Scoir customers. Read on for the...

2 min read

What I Wish I Knew Before College 💭

Elena Polin: March 16, 2022

1 min read

What’s New: Redesigned College Profiles

Erin Barnes: January 18, 2022

Newly redesigned College Profiles are here for students! We’ve made some updates to these critical pages. Why? Read more about it here.

4 min read

Student Insights to Help Shape Your Funnel (from 2021)

The data included in this article is from December 2021. View a webinar on 2022 Student Outcomes data for more up-to-date information. We believe...

28 min read

Money Matters: A Walkthrough of Financial Aid for College [Podcast]

Erin Barnes: September 30, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, is joined by...

17 min read

All Things Letters of Recommendation [Podcast]

Peter Van Buskirk: May 19, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, is joined by...

14 min read

Tips for High Schoolers Beginning Their College Exploration 🎤 Podcast

Peter Van Buskirk: May 04, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, is joined by...

15 min read

Gaining a Foundational Understanding of College Testing [Podcast]

Peter Van Buskirk: April 29, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, is joined by...

16 min read

Advice on High School Course Selection from Admission Professionals [Podcast]

Peter Van Buskirk: April 15, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, has a...

14 min read

Tips for Making the Final Choice of College [Podcast]

Peter Van Buskirk: April 08, 2021

This is an abridged transcription of a recent podcast episode where Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van Buskirk, talks...

11 min read

Students: Here's What to Understand About the Waitlist 🎤 Podcast

Peter Van Buskirk: March 26, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where we sit down with Former Dean of Admission and Strategic Advisor to Scoir, Peter Van...

32 min read

The State of College Admissions

Peter Van Buskirk: February 25, 2021

This is a transcription of a recent podcast episode where we sit down with Chief Education and Policy Officer of NACAC, David Hawkins, to discuss the...

1 min read

Introducing: Inside College Admissions - A Podcast Presented by Scoir

Erin Barnes: November 02, 2020

We're excited to announce the launch of our very own podcast: Inside College Admissions! As part of Scoir's mission to create a holistic college...

2 min read

What to Know About Honors Colleges & Residential Colleges

If you’re in the process of selecting and applying to colleges, it’s important to be aware of certain opportunities that aren't well-publicized and...

3 min read

Fall College Planning Tips: Preparing for College Application Season

Erin Barnes: September 23, 2020

With a new school year underway, so begins the next college application season. Over the coming months, high school students need to establish a pace...

3 min read

College Student Credit Cards: Wise Ways to Build Credit

Julie Kampschroeder: September 09, 2020

Over 14 million students will enter college in the fall. Students will live on their own away from home, for extended periods of time. When they...

3 min read

What Do Colleges Want to See In An Essay?

Peter Van Buskirk: August 27, 2020

Writing a college essay that satisfies the application requirement is relatively easy. Crafting an essay that can be the tipping point in the...

1 min read

The Social & Emotional Impacts of COVID-19 [Video]

Erin Barnes: August 25, 2020

This two-part video series follows my conversations with Dr. Robert Avossa. Listen in to hear us discuss how we can stay well - emotionally and...

3 min read

Fall College Planning: Tips for Submitting College Applications

Erin Barnes: August 07, 2020

The start of a new school year is here. If you’re a high school senior considering applying to college, it’s important to be organized and purposeful...

3 min read

Virtual Volunteer Opportunities

Julie Kampschroeder: July 16, 2020

As a high school student whose goal is to attend college, you might be concerned that your college resume will be sparse as academic camps, job...

3 min read

A Student Guide to Understanding Net Price Calculators

Julie Kampschroeder: June 24, 2020

As you finalize your college list, there is one important step that shouldn’t be skipped before applying: using the net price calculator. If you're...

2 min read

College Bound? Don't Forget Those Thank-You Notes

Julie Kampschroeder: June 12, 2020

Congratulations high school graduates! You persevered through unprecedented times to earn your diploma and are now looking forward to college in the...

4 min read

Keys to Writing a Winning College Essay

Peter Van Buskirk: June 05, 2020

The first half of 2020 has proven to be quite a challenging time for our global community, bringing with it unprecedented health, personal, and...

2 min read

An Evaluation Worksheet for Virtual Campus Tours

Julie Kampschroeder: June 01, 2020

For the foreseeable future, in-person visits to college campuses are not possible with campuses shut down and admission offices working remotely. If...

4 min read

Ways to Borrow Money for College: Student vs Parent Loans

Julie Kampschroeder: May 18, 2020

If you’re planning to attend college, it’s likely that you’ll need to consider borrowing money to do so. The idea of borrowing money can be...

2 min read

How to Find the Best College Fit

Peter Van Buskirk: May 04, 2020

Spring is a time when college planning is very top-of-mind for many rising high school seniors and parents/guardians. With these tips in your back...

2 min read

What to Do After You've Made Your Final College Decision

Julie Kampschroeder: April 22, 2020

Congratulations! You did your research and were accepted into multiple colleges and universities. After weighing the pros and cons, you have made...

4 min read

Guidelines for Making a Final Choice of College

Erin Barnes: April 20, 2020

For families of students recently admitted to college, the coming weeks are critical to the final choice of a college. With a spring enrollment...

2 min read

Displaying Leadership Skills on Your College Resume

Julie Kampschroeder: April 15, 2020

Colleges and universities love to see leadership skills on the college resume. What are the first things that come to mind when you hear the word...

3 min read

Unsolicited College Messages: Why You Receive These

Erin Barnes: April 13, 2020

If you are a high school student in grades 9-11, there is a very good chance you have begun to receive unsolicited messages from a range of...

Survey Results: Understanding The Effects of COVID-19

Survey finds that the COVID-19 pandemic is having little impact on students’ enrollment plans, but families are increasingly concerned about costs,...

4 min read

Uncertainty Compounded in the College Admission Process

Peter Van Buskirk: March 31, 2020

Under normal circumstances, the college admission process is most dynamic during the month of April. In years past, colleges and universities would...

Students: Continue Exploring Colleges with Confidence

Erin Barnes: March 20, 2020

In a time where college exploration can bring on feelings of stress, we want to help you rest assured. When you cannot visit campuses, attend college...

3 min read

Entering College Undecided? Tips for Finding Your Path

Julie Kampschroeder: March 18, 2020

You did it! You committed to a college that you feel is your best fit. You’re excited to start. You’re thinking about how you can prepare. Then, the...

3 min read

Financial Aid Webinar: Who Gets What and Why?

Peter Van Buskirk: February 26, 2020

Now is the time of year when offers of admission will start to arrive for college applicants. It's a very exciting time for Seniors! Very soon after,...

3 min read

Building Relationships With College Admission Professionals

Julie Kampschroeder: December 19, 2019

There’s more to students – and colleges – than numbers. Relationships matter and interpersonal dealings, observed or inferred, can tip the scale one...

4 min read

Managing College Expectations

Peter Van Buskirk: December 04, 2019

As they enter the college admission process, most students hold tight to “dream” schools that they believe would be ideal fits for them. Few,...

2 min read

How to Stand Out in The College Application Process: Find Your “Hook”

Julie Kampschroeder: November 11, 2019

Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed middle school and are now walking the halls of high school. These years fly by, and soon enough you’ll...

6 min read

8 Tips To Maximize Your Financial Aid Opportunity

Peter Van Buskirk: October 23, 2019

As the college admission process becomes real to you, the discussion about affordability—and the need of financial aid—also comes into sharper focus....

5 min read

Why You Should Take College Rankings With a Dose of Cynicism

Peter Van Buskirk: September 10, 2019

A new college admission cycle is fast approaching —and so are college rankings!

1 min read

Scoir Product Update: New Features for Counselors

You asked, we delivered. The team has been hard at work this summer creating enhanced experiences for counselors so you can have a more productive...

1 min read

No Need to Travel. Experience an Immersive Virtual Campus Visit!

After reading a lot of facts and figures about a college, and even scouring student-run social sights for more authenticity, can you be sure that a...

2 min read

Don't Be Afraid of the College Essay - It's Your Time To Shine!

No college application is complete without an essay. In his article Confessions of a Former Admissions Officer, Ed Boland, a former admissions...

5 min read

SAT Subject Tests: Who Should Take Them? And When?

Karen Miller: April 03, 2018

In January 2021, the College Board discontinued the SAT subject tests. You can explore the new digital SAT here. If you're seeking information on how...

5 min read

Is College Regulated? How Accreditation Agencies Ensure a Quality Education

Earning a college degree can be as much of an investment as purchasing a car or even mortgaging a home, but what if that costly diploma doesn’t hold...

2 min read

Declaration of the Students of America

When in the pursuit of higher education, admissions processes impede holistic consideration of those for whom they exist and it becomes necessary for...