Guides and How-to’s for College and Grad School

Guides and How-to’s for College and Grad School

Check out our extensive library of Guides and How-Tos for prospective college students, prospective graduate students, and students already in the process of earning an undergraduate or graduate degree.

From college admissions to grad school applications; from the best graduate school in your state to the best online college in the nation, we’ve got helpful resources for wherever you are in your academic career.

Guide to Applying for College

From selecting schools and submitting test scores to writing your personal statement and securing letters of recommendation, from connecting with faculty members and applying for federal loans to hitting application deadlines and anticipating that acceptance letter—you’ll likely spend well over a year applying for colleges. Find out what steps you must take to find, apply to, get into, and pay for the best college for you.

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How to Apply for Graduate School

Plan to earn a master’s degree or doctorate degree? Getting an advanced degree can help you enhance relevant skills and reach new career goals. With our guide for prospective graduate students, you’ll learn how to select, qualify for, and gain admission into the graduate schools or graduate programs of your choice.

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Guide to College for International Students

International students attending college or graduate school in the U.S. face a number of unique challenges. Read our Guide to College for International Students, a comprehensive look at attending college in the U.S., for advice on applying for a student visa, getting financial aid, earning scholarships, adjusting to American culture, and much more.

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College & University Accreditation Guide

Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college, university or graduate school is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. Find out why accreditation matters and how you can be sure your college or graduate school program has the right kind of accreditation.

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Guide to Paying for College

When it comes to the cost of college, the sticker price is only part of the story. Beyond tuition, you’ll be paying for housing, fees, food, text books, and more. But you may be able to factor in federal student aid and scholarships. In other words, paying for college can be complicated. Use our guide to simplify the process.

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Guide to Financial Aid in Higher Ed

The U.S. Department of Education provides more than $120 billion in federal student aid every year to help students pay for college, graduate school, or career school. Most U.S. citizens planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school are eligible for some form of federal financial aid. Learn more about need-based grants, federal student loans, state-based college loans, tuition reimbursement, and other specialized financial aid programs.

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Guide to College and Graduate School Scholarships

Scholarships provide free money for college students and those who plan to attend graduate school. Read on to learn the difference between need-based grants and merit-based scholarships, get tips on improving your chances of earning a scholarship, and find out how to kick off your scholarship search whether you’re looking for the perfect college or preparing to earn a graduate degree.

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Guide to Surviving College

College is difficult, expensive, and for many, can be a major lifestyle adjustment. Check out our tips on how you can survive college, get the most out of your experience, and walk away with a great degree!

It’s also important to feel safe at your college. Check out our ranking of the safest colleges in the United States.

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Guide to College Study Skills

To succeed in college, you’ll need to adopt effective study habits and develop critical learning skills. This includes skills like managing your time, taking good notes, conducting effective research, and more. Read on for tips on developing your learning skills, studying more effectively for your exams, and successfully adhering to the rules of academic integrity.

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