Common Misconceptions
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SAT/ACT: One exam is harder or easier than the other
The exams test different material and have different question types, therefore they cannot be equally compared. However, there are concordance tables and converters to gauge your score on the other exam. These converters and tables should not be used to determine what score you should obtain.
SAT/ACT: Colleges prefer one exam over the other
Both exams test a student's readiness for college/understanding of high school material. Universities do not have a preference.
SAT/ACT: You have to take both
Students should take the exam that they feel most comfortable taking. Whether this means that they personally find one easier or have spent more time studying one of the formats. It is best to find the one you find easier, then pursue that exam.
SAT/ACT: A "bad" score will prevent you from getting into college
If your test scores do not fall into your desired school's commonly accepted range, this does not mean you will not get in. There are many components to your application, and test scores are only one part. Colleges are starting to focus more on the level of dedication a student has through their extra-curricular activities, essays, and recommendations.
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If you are still not satisfied, take the exam again.
SAT/ACT: I should take the real exam to gauge my progress
Practice tests found in prep books, on Khan Academy, or online should be used to gauge your progress. Colleges will see all of your test scores, so only show them when you tried your hardest and studied.
Involvement: Extra-curriculars do not matter
Extra-curriculars are becoming more and more important to a student's application. These activities show colleges that you can be dedicated, can take on leadership roles, can manage your time, and are applying what you learn in the classroom to real-world contexts.
Involvement: You should have the most extra-curriculars
Although being involved is very important, piling on activities for the sake of having them or thinking it will "look good" to colleges, does not show the same level of dedication as having leadership roles in a few clubs or teams. Be sure that you are consistently attending meetings or events and don't sign up for something for the sake of checking another box.
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Common App only allows applications to list 10 activities, which can include clubs, teams, volunteer work, jobs, meaningful experiences, and family responsibilities. Students should only put their top 10 most dedicated activities.
Financial Aid: Private schools are not affordable
Depending on the institution, private universities can sometimes be more affordable than their public counterparts. Since they are privately funded and typically smaller, they can offer more aid to students who need it. For example, Johns Hopkins covers 100% of demonstrated need.
Financial Aid: My family makes too much money, so I won't get any aid
You never know what you're going to get if you never apply. Completing FAFSA and the CSS Profile are time-consuming, though families with higher incomes should not be discouraged. There are also a multitude of merit-based financial aid options from the school directly or through scholarships.