Blog

Last year, the ACT announced new changes to the ACT Test. These changes are sweeping, some of the most significant that the ACT has had in recent memory. It comes on the heels of recent changes to the SAT to make the test more accessible for modern students. These updates can be confusing and overwhelming. […]

Updated: Jan 2025 There are four sections on the ACT: English (75 question/ 45 minutes), Math (60 questions/ 60 minutes), Reading (40 questions/ 35 minutes), Science (40 questions/ 35 minutes) and then the optional writing portion. Math Math is the easiest section to raise your score in. This section is the one where students make […]

The last two years have seen no shortage of changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. Delays. New questions. All of it has been confusing for families looking at college for the first time. But none of it should detract from the application’s importance. Since 1965, the FAFSA has […]

At Class 101, we understand that preparing for college can be overwhelming, but being organized and proactive can significantly ease that stress. This is not a post about mental health treatment or specific self-care tips. Instead, we’re here to discuss practical strategies for navigating the high school years—a time often filled with stress and anxiety […]

It’s the middle of college application season. Aside from the usual jitters that come with preparing and submitting applications, there’s another anxiety-inducing prospect on the horizon—having to make a choice on where to attend. Finding the right college fit isn’t always a straight-forward proposition. Beyond classes and grading, there’s the campus size, location, student body, […]

Getting a good college application together requires letters of recommendations, transcripts, and a good college essay. However, one of the most valuable components is too often overlooked—parents and guardians. Parents are critical, not just in keeping students to deadlines but also in providing support and guidance during a pivotal moment of their lives. While the […]

Summer is coming to an end, which means big changes are around the corner for incoming high school freshmen. As a high school student, you’ll have more independence. You’ll be more free to pursue your hobbies and passions. You’ll be more in charge of your life. It’s normal to find this prospect both exciting and […]

Summer is underway and most students are enjoying a well-deserved break from school work to pursue sports, hobbies, summer jobs, travel, and more. Still, these hot summer months should not distract from one key fact—the start of college admissions season is right around the corner. Most colleges and universities will begin accepting applicants for the […]

For most students, applying for college has a few essential parts. There’s transcripts, a record of your grades through the prior year. There’s test scores, the results of several standardized tests meant to evaluate your capacity as a student. Then, finally, there’s the application essay. Around 650 words in length, the college application essay is […]