Wondering when the Common App opens? Learn the official opening date, what documents and materials to prepare in advance, and how to get your essays, activities, recommendations, and college list ready for a smoother application process.

How is AI changing college admissions? Harvard alumnus and admissions consultant John Gardezi shares insights on AI-assisted essays, authentic student storytelling, project-based learning, and what colleges now value most.

Most colleges still place the greatest weight on grades and the strength of the curriculum, while essays, recommendations, work, and extracurriculars help explain the student behind the transcript. We explain how to fix that.

Volunteering for college applications still matters, but impact matters more. Discover what admissions officers value beyond volunteer hours.