High School Exit Exams May Face New Standards

In the near future, high school students might be preparing for more challenging exit exams.

After more than a decade of growing reliance on high school exit exams, states are rethinking how they use these popular assessments, a new Center on Education Policy (CEP) report finds.

New data released yesterday shows that eight of the 26 states with exit exam policies have aligned these exams to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) or other college- and career-readiness standards, and 10 more states plan to do so in the near future, according to “State High School Exit Exams: A Policy in Transition,” the 11th annual report on high school exit exams by CEP at George Washington University. Continue Reading

High School and College Students Using “Study Drugs” to get Good Grades

It seems that some students want to get good grades so bad that they’re putting their health at risk.  Known as “study drugs”, these prescriptions are sought by high school and college students desiring to improve their performances in the classroom.  Learn more in the following infographic. Continue Reading

Top Five Things to Know When Applying to Universities

What should you consider when applying to college?  If you are a high school student or someone who is planning to pursue higher education, then this post is for you.  Here are the top five things to know when applying to universities, according to one expert. Continue Reading

More High School Students Choosing to Volunteer Abroad

Before high school students go to college or choose another path in the real world, many are volunteering their time as part of an international experience.

Projects Abroad, which recruits thousands of volunteers worldwide to volunteer in developing countries, reports that increasing numbers of high school students are choosing to volunteer abroad this summer. The leading international volunteer organization is expecting almost 1,000 students to take part this summer in their 2-Week High School Specials, which are structured programs for high school students. Continue Reading

“You got accepted! But…can you go?” Eight Steps to Take When Financial Aid Isn’t Enough

Laura Gilbert, Ph.D.

High school students across the country are eagerly anticipating the arrival of college decision letters.  For most students, acceptance is only the first hurdle.  Money is the second and often bigger hurdle.  Receiving a healthy financial aid package (scholarship-heavy, loan-light) can feel like hitting the college-funding jackpot. Yet a weak financial aid package doesn’t have to be the end of the road.

If the college of your dreams says “yes” but their financial aid award says “no”, don’t give up!  Take a deep breath.  Sit down with paper, pencil, a calculator, your family and the college budget you and your family have in mind.  Bring a creative, flexible spirit to the table. Continue Reading

Factors in Choosing a College Based on the Sports Program

College students are rooting on their respective schools during the NCAA basketball tournament a.k.a. March Madness.  Have you ever wondered, though, if a college’s sports program is a reason to attend it?  While this may not be an overwhelming factor for many students in choosing a particular college, a successful sports program may influence some of them. Continue Reading