A guide for students on the choice between applying to the Ivy League and Oxbridge
When you look at education around the world you need to understand how top universities examine applications from students who are not,…
The CollegeCore Journal
Insights for your
study-abroad journey
Admissions strategy, scholarships, test prep and real student stories — written by counselors who place students at the world's best colleges.
What Makes a Student Stand Out? The Power of an Extracurricular Spike
Imagine two students: one participates in many activities with limited involvement, while the other has spent years building expertise and…
Beyond Marks: The 5 Factors That Truly Matter in US Admissions.
Applying to the United States in 2026 isn’t about having “more,” whether through more activities, more Advanced Placement classes, or…
Inside US College Admissions: What ‘Holistic Review’ Really Means for an applicant. (2026 Guide for Students)
The fear that one “B” or a mediocre SAT score means rejection is common, but not entirely accurate. Admissions in 2026…
Stop Applying Blind: Why Every Student Needs a Global Admissions Strategy (Not Just a Dream School List)
Applying to university in 2026 isn’t just about perfect GPAs or standardized testing. It is now about smart application choices and strong…
UCAS Personal Statement vs. US College Essays: Key Differences & Tips
Applying to college is tough enough, but what if the applications for both the UK and the US look deceptively similar? Things can…
How to Stand Out as an Indian Applicant in an International Pool
A strong university application requires early preparation, but standing out means telling your story in a way that feels authentic, impactful, and…
Does a Passion Project Really Strengthen your Application Profile?
The term ‘passion project’ is often used to impress college admissions officers. The truth is that, despite sounding impressive, admissions officers view…
Alumni Spotlight – Laira Aggarwal
Meet Laira Aggarwal, a Jr. Associate at McKinsey & Company. She graduated with a double major in Math & Economics from Claremont…
Five Proven Strategies To Get Off The College Waitlist
Being placed on the waitlist isn’t the best news you receive from the admission office but it is not the…
Chat GPT’s college admission essay made these 5 common mistakes
With the rising prevalence of AI in the education sector, admissions officers are becoming more and more sensitised to identifying AI-generated content.…