Admissions & Deadlines
When does "National Decision Day" typically occur?
Deadline for college enrollment decisions, typically on May 1
What is the primary deadline to submit the FAFSA for federal financial aid eligibility?
June 30 of the academic year for which aid is requested
What is the role of a resident assistant (RA) in dorm life?
Support and assist students in residence halls and enforce policies
What is a syllabus, and why is it important to review it at the start of a semester?
Document outlining course expectations, assignments, and policies, helping you plan your workload
What is a resume, and why is it important when applying for jobs after graduation?
Document that outlines your education, work experience, and skills, which helps employers assess your qualifications for a position?
What does "test-optional" mean in college admissions?
Colleges do not require standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT for admission
What is the "Cost of Attendance" (COA)?
Total estimated cost of tuition, fees, room, board, books, and other expenses at a college
What is a "student organization fair"?
Event where clubs and organizations recruit new members, helping you get involved on campus
What is "plagiarism," and what are the consequences of committing it in college?
Using someone else's work or ideas without proper citation, which can result in academic penalties such as failing an assignment, failing a course, or even expulsion
What is a "LinkedIn profile," and why is it important for networking and job searching?
LinkedIn profile is an online professional profile that showcases your experience, skills, and accomplishments, and it is important for building a professional network and connecting with potential employers
What is a "deferred" decision?
Application is postponed for further review
What is the difference between a subsidized and an unsubsidized student loan?
Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while in school, while unsubsidized loans do
What is the difference between intramural and varsity sports?
Intramural sports are recreational and open to all students, while varsity sports are competitive and school-sponsored
What is "academic probation," and how can you avoid it?
Status given to students with low GPAs, avoided by maintaining good grades and seeking help early if struggling
What is the purpose of an internship, and how can it help you in your career?
An internship provides practical work experience in your field of study, helps you build your professional network, and can make you more competitive when applying for jobs
What is the difference between "need-blind" and "need-aware" admissions policies?
"Need-blind" does not consider financial need in admissions, while "need-aware" does
What is the difference between a Pell Grant and a Federal Work-Study award?
Pell Grant is free money for eligible students, while work-study is earned through part-time jobs
What is a "meal plan swipe" and how does it differ from "dining dollars"?
Swipe gives access to meals in dining halls, while dining dollars can be spent at campus cafes or restaurants
What is the difference between a "prerequisite" and a "corequisite" course?
A prerequisite is a course that must be completed before enrolling in another, while a corequisite is a course that must be taken at the same time as another
What are "networking events," and how can they help you in your post-college job search?
Networking events, such as career fairs or alumni mixers, where you meet professionals in your field, learn about job opportunities, and build relationships that may lead to career advancement?
What is the purpose of a "letter of continued interest" and when should you submit one?
Letter sent to a college to express ongoing interest after being deferred or waitlisted
What is the difference between a federal student loan and a private student loan?
Federal student loan is funded by the government, while a private student loan is issued by banks or other private lenders
What is FERPA, and how does it affect your privacy in college?
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, which protects the privacy of your educational records?
What is the difference between office hours and academic advising?
Office hours are for discussing class content with professors, while academic advising is for planning your degree and schedule
What is "graduate school," and what factors should you consider before applying?
Graduate school is advanced study after college, and factors to consider before applying include your career goals, the cost of the program, and whether further education will enhance your job prospects