# data[].attributes.location_name
University of Pittsburgh, Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
University of Pittsburgh, Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
University of Pittsburgh, Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Carnegie Mellon University, Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Carnegie Mellon University, Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Carnegie Mellon University, Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Washington & Jefferson College, South Lincoln Street, Washington, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Washington & Jefferson College, South Lincoln Street, Washington, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Washington & Jefferson College, South Lincoln Street, Washington, PA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Allegheny College, North Main Street, Meadville, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Allegheny College, North Main Street, Meadville, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Allegheny College, North Main Street, Meadville, PA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Frostburg State University, Braddock Road, Frostburg, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Frostburg State University, Braddock Road, Frostburg, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Frostburg State University, Braddock Road, Frostburg, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Virginia Wesleyan University, Wesleyan Drive, Virginia Beach, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Virginia Wesleyan University, Wesleyan Drive, Virginia Beach, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Virginia Wesleyan University, Wesleyan Drive, Virginia Beach, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Albright College, North 13th Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Albright College, North 13th Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Albright College, North 13th Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Alvernia University, Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Alvernia University, Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Alvernia University, Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Penn State Berks, Broadcasting Road, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Penn State Berks, Broadcasting Road, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Penn State Berks, Broadcasting Road, Reading, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Penn State Mont Alto, Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Penn State Mont Alto, Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Penn State Mont Alto, Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
York College of Pennsylvania, Country Club Road, York, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
York College of Pennsylvania, Country Club Road, York, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
York College of Pennsylvania, Country Club Road, York, PA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Old Dominion University, Hampton Boulevard, Norfolk, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Old Dominion University, Hampton Boulevard, Norfolk, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Old Dominion University, Hampton Boulevard, Norfolk, VA, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Hood College, Rosemont Avenue, Frederick, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Hood College, Rosemont Avenue, Frederick, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Hood College, Rosemont Avenue, Frederick, MD, USA

# data[].attributes.location_name
Bishop’s University, College Street, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.headline
Bishop’s University, College Street, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.subject
Bishop’s University, College Street, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.location_name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.body
Update to come

# data[].attributes.location_name
Providence College, Cunningham Square, Providence, RI, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Providence College, Cunningham Square, Providence, RI, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Providence College, Cunningham Square, Providence, RI, USA

# data[].attributes.body
Update to come.

# data[].attributes.body
Update to Come, visit scheduled 11:00 AM 6/27/23

# data[].attributes.location_name
Boston College, Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.headline
Boston College, Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.subject
Boston College, Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA

# data[].attributes.body
Boston College - Private

Chestnut Hill, MA

Student population:  15,075 students

Campus setting: Suburban/Urban Large City

Pictures from my visit

Rankings:

#36 National Universities, US News & World Report

#50 Best Value School, US News & World Report

#30 Best Business Programs, US News & World Report

#22 Best Nursing Programs, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Applied Physics

Environmental Geoscience

Human Centered Engineering

Islamic Civilization and Societies

Neuroscience

Russian

Slavic Studies

American Heritage

Perspectives on Spanish America

Transformative Education Studies

Global Public Health and the Common Good

Film

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

26.7% admit rate

9500 Applications

Test-optional

Application Deadlines:

Early Decision I - November 1

Early Decision II - January 3

Regular Decision - January 3

Amazingly Beautiful well-maintained campus, 4 miles from downtown Boston.  Green Line T (subway) stop across the street from campus.  It is easy and affordable to access the city.  Excellent academics and excellent reputation, especially in Business and Nursing.  R-1 research level at a mostly undergraduate institution which is rare.

Fabulous mentoring and first-year transition programs.  A plethora of things to get involved with. Service to the community and to the world is huge.  NO Greek Life (Fraternities and Sororities).  An excellent option for students looking for a great school without the US party culture.

Three sections of campus, lower campus, main campus and upper campus.  They also have a separate campus about 1.5 miles from the main campus that is home to the law school and that houses some of the undergraduate students.

BC is an easy train ride from the Washington DC area, there is also a major International Airport in Boston.

98% of students are employed or in grad school upon graduation, with many of the business students offered positions prior to the end of school.

Students reside on campus  with housing guranteed for 3 or 4 years.  98% of Seniors (4th year students live on campus). There is a great college community for the students and a great love of the college and campus.

This is an Ivy League quality education without less stress and pressure of an ivy league school.  I highly recommend it.

Financial Aid:

BC meets 100% of demonstrated need.

Offer 1 competitive merit-based scholarship.  It covers full tuition.  You need to apply for admission by November 1 to be considered for the scholarship.

Notes on the application process:

Counselors are looking for very high-achieving students (with rigorous courses), as well as students that are well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Sweet Briar College, Chapel Road, Sweet Briar, VA

# data[].attributes.headline
Sweet Briar College, Chapel Road, Sweet Briar, VA

# data[].attributes.subject
Sweet Briar College, Chapel Road, Sweet Briar, VA

# data[].attributes.body
Update to come

# data[].attributes.location_name
Concordia University, Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.headline
Concordia University, Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.subject
Concordia University, Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.body
More information to come

# data[].attributes.location_name
McGill University, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.headline
McGill University, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.subject
McGill University, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada

# data[].attributes.body
More information to come

# data[].attributes.body
Dartmouth College

Hanover, New Hampshire

Student population:

Campus setting: Rural

Rankings:

#12 National Universities, US News & World Report

#5 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#7 Best Value Schools, US News & World Report

#15 Study Abroad, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

African and African American Studies

Medieval and Renaissance Studies

Psychological and Brain Sciences

Human-Centered Design

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

6% acceptance rate

Financial Aid: Dartmouth meets 100% demonstrated financial need.

Notes on application process: They have not yet announced if they will continue to be test-optional after the fall of 2023 application cycle.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Landmark College, River Road South, Putney, VT

# data[].attributes.headline
Landmark College, River Road South, Putney, VT

# data[].attributes.subject
Landmark College, River Road South, Putney, VT

# data[].attributes.body
Landmark College

Putney, Vermont

Student population: Approximately 600 students

Campus setting: Rural

Specialty: Landmark College is specialized in working with students who are neurodivergent and/or have learning differences (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.).

Rankings:

#2 Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#1 Most Innovative Schools, US News & World Report

Programs of Study:

Communication & Entrepreneurial Leadership

Computer Science

Psychology

Integrated Arts

Liberal Studies

Life Science

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

55% acceptance rate

Notes on application process: LC requires applicants to include psycho-educational testing administered within three years of applying.

# data[].attributes.body
More Info to Come

# data[].attributes.location_name
James Madison University, South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA

# data[].attributes.headline
James Madison University, South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA

# data[].attributes.subject
James Madison University, South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA

# data[].attributes.body
James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA

Student population: Approximately 20,000 undergraduate students

Campus setting: Town

Rankings:

#41 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#18 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (at schools where doctorate not offered), US News & World Report

#72 Top Public Schools, US News & World Report

#7 Best College Campuses in America, Niche

#8 Best College Food in America, Niche

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Architectural Design

Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication

Industrial Design

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Geology

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

75% acceptance rate

Notes on application process: JMU is permanently test-optional.

# data[].attributes.location_name
George Mason University, University Drive, Fairfax, VA

# data[].attributes.headline
George Mason University, University Drive, Fairfax, VA

# data[].attributes.subject
George Mason University, University Drive, Fairfax, VA

# data[].attributes.body
George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Student population: Approximately 27,000 undergraduate students

Campus setting: Suburban

Rankings:

#20 Most Innovative Schools, US News & World Report

#64 Top Public Schools, US News & World Report

#19 Undergraduate Cybersecurity, Reported on GMU website

#11 Social Sciences, National Science Foundation

#2 Dance Program in Virginia, College Factual

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Art and Visual Technology

Computer Game Design

Recreation Management

Russian and Eurasian Studies

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

91% acceptance rate

Notes on application process: George Mason is permanently test-optional.

# data[].attributes.body
More Info to Come

# data[].attributes.location_name
Quinnipiac University, Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, CT

# data[].attributes.headline
Quinnipiac University, Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, CT

# data[].attributes.subject
Quinnipiac University, Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, CT

# data[].attributes.body
Quinnipiac University - Private

Hamden, Connecticut

Student population: 6,845 students

Campus setting: Town/Small City

Pictures from my visit

Rankings:

#1 College for Getting a Job, Zippia.com

#41 Most Innovative, US News & World Report

#87 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Advertising & Integrated Communications

Behavioral Neuroscience

Biomedical Marketing

Biomedical Sciences

Civil Engineering

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Film, Television & Media Arts

Game Design & Development

Global Business Affairs, Polish

Global Public Health

Global Supply Chain

Industrial Engineering

Irish Studies

Legal Studies

Mechanical Engineering

Medical Microbiology & Immunology

Medicine

Pre-Med

Sports Studies

Supply Chain Management

Talent Management for Entertainment, eSports & Sports

Theater

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

72% admit rate

Test-optional

Application Deadlines:

Early Decision - November 1

Early Action - November 15

Regular Decision - February 1

Beautiful well maintained campus, of almost 7000 students.  While located in a small town in Connecticut the school is only a reasonable drive or train ride from New York, Harford, Providence, and Boston.  Very residential, most students live on campus and really seem to like it.  The school spirit is very visible and permeates the entire campus community.  We were visiting only days after they had won the 2023 NCAA Division I National Championship in Ice Hockey.  The facilities, labs, and almost every space are brand new or newly refreshed.  There is a lot of pride in the place and the students appreciate the ability to attend college in beautiful and well-maintained spaces.

Qui9nnipiac has three campuses:

York Hill - Residences, an AMAZING student center, the Hockey and Basketball Arena, also top notch.

North Haven Campus - Medical School, Law School, Nursing Program, Physicians Assisting Program, Occupational Therapy, Medical Imaging, Education Program.

Mount Carmel - Main undergraduate campus most students attend classes here and live here.

Have a unique partnership with Hartford Health, one of the largest healthcare providers in New England.  In addition to clinical training for students, all students are given priority, regardless of their program of study in hiring within the Harford Health organization.

Social life tends to focus on campus or in surrounding towns/cities of North Haven and New Haven. The main campus abuts Sleeping Giant State Park which is quite picturesque and there is much to do outside.

Financial Aid:

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships (must apply by December 1st).

They only meet about 55% of demonstrated needs based on the FAFSA.  May not be a great option for price-sensitive students/families.

Notes on the application process:

Application review is pretty straightforward

QU is test-optional, but they do recommend or require test score submission for several programs.

Review the QU testing policy

# data[].attributes.body
New York University

New York, New York

Student population: Approximately 58,000 undergraduate students

Campus setting: Urban

Rankings:

#25 National Universities, US News & World Report

#26 Most Innovative Schools, US News & World Report

#1 Top 25 American Film Schools, The Hollywood Reporter

#1 Study Abroad, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies

Digital Media Design for Learning

European & Mediterranean Studies

Historical & Sustainable Architecture

Piano Studies

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

13% acceptance rate

Financial Aid: NYU meets 100% demonstrated financial need.

Notes on application process: NYU is currently test-optional.

# data[].attributes.body
Columbia University

New York, New York

Student population: Approximately 30,000 undergraduate students

Campus setting: Urban

Rankings:

#18 National Universities, US News & World Report (Note: Columbia will soon no longer be participating in university rankings)

#46 Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, US News & World Report

#30 Study Abroad, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Portuguese Studies

Financial Economics

Sustainable Development

Urban Studies

Yiddish Studies

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

6% acceptance rate

Financial Aid: NYU meets 100% demonstrated financial need.

If your family’s annual income is less than $150,000 (with typical assets), you will be able to attend Columbia tuition-free.

Notes on application process: Columbia is permanently test-optional.

# data[].attributes.location_name
The College of Wooster, Beall Avenue, Wooster, OH

# data[].attributes.headline
The College of Wooster, Beall Avenue, Wooster, OH

# data[].attributes.subject
The College of Wooster, Beall Avenue, Wooster, OH

# data[].attributes.body
College of Wooster - Private

Wooster, Ohio

Student population: Approximately 2,000

Campus setting: Small town/rural

Rankings:

#13 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#17 Most International Students, US News & World Report

#59 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America, Niche.com

#13 Best Classroom Experience, Princeton Review

Member of the Colleges That Change Lives list

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Activism & Social Change Pathway

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Digital & Visual Storytelling

Pre-Architecture

Pre-Engineering

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

61% acceptance rate

The College of Wooster is perhaps my favorite college visit to date. Located in the small town of Wooster, Ohio, the campus has a lot to offer from student activities to career services. The community was incredibly welcoming and diverse. In addition, the student experience is very research-focused with students completing a capstone project by the end of their four years at Wooster.

Financial Aid: All students are automatically considered for merit based scholarships.

Notes on application process: College of Wooster is permanently test-optional. Students may submit test scores if they believe it’ll strengthen their application.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Kenyon College, College Park Drive, Gambier, OH

# data[].attributes.headline
Kenyon College, College Park Drive, Gambier, OH

# data[].attributes.subject
Kenyon College, College Park Drive, Gambier, OH

# data[].attributes.body
Kenyon College - Private

Gambier, Ohio

Undergraduate student population: Approximately 1,800

Campus setting: Rural

Rankings:

#31 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges, US News & World Report

#19 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#53 Best Value Schools, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Classical Civilization

Scientific Computing

Integrated Program in Humane Studies

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

37% acceptance rate

SAT Range: 1350-1500

I really enjoyed my visit to Kenyon! While the campus and town of Gambier is very rural (they don’t have any stop lights!), the college is one of the few completely residential campuses in the country. This means that 100% of the students live on campus all four years. If you’re looking for a tight-knit community with access to housing your entire time on campus, Kenyon could be a good option for you. In addition, campus is about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland - so if you want to make use of larger city amenities on the weekends, that is available as well.

Financial Aid:

Kenyon meets 100% demonstrated need.

All students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, ranging from $10,000-$25,000.

There are four creative scholarships that do require an application. They are each based in the following fields: Studio Art, Writing, Music, and Creative Writing.

Notes on application process:

Currently test-optional, policy after 2023 is TBD

IB scores are not required, but if you send them in they will be considered as a part of your application.

# data[].attributes.headline
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC

# data[].attributes.subject
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC

# data[].attributes.body
More Info to Come

# data[].attributes.location_name
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC

# data[].attributes.headline
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC

# data[].attributes.subject
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC

# data[].attributes.body
More Info to Come

# data[].attributes.body
More Info to Come

# data[].attributes.location_name
Towson University, York Road, Towson, MD

# data[].attributes.headline
Towson University, York Road, Towson, MD

# data[].attributes.subject
Towson University, York Road, Towson, MD

# data[].attributes.body
Visit scheduled for 3/10

# data[].attributes.body
Visit scheduled for 2/23

# data[].attributes.location_name
Wilson College, Philadelphia Avenue, Chambersburg, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Wilson College, Philadelphia Avenue, Chambersburg, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Wilson College, Philadelphia Avenue, Chambersburg, PA

# data[].attributes.body
Visit Scheduled for 2/9/2023 More to come

# data[].attributes.location_name
Rochambeau French International School, Forest Road, Bethesda, MD

# data[].attributes.headline
Rochambeau French International School, Forest Road, Bethesda, MD

# data[].attributes.subject
Rochambeau French International School, Forest Road, Bethesda, MD

# data[].attributes.location_name
Dickinson College, North College Street, Carlisle, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Dickinson College, North College Street, Carlisle, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Dickinson College, North College Street, Carlisle, PA

# data[].attributes.body
Dickinson College - Private

Carlisle, PA

Student population: 2,500 students

Campus setting: Town/Small City

Pictures from my visit

Rankings:

#51 National Liberal Arts College, US News & World Report

#19 For Study Abroad, US News & World Report

#41 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

American Studies

Arabic

Archaeology

Astronomy

Sustainability

Chinese

Economics

Environmental Studies  & Environmental Science

Film & Media Studies

Food Studies

Hebrew

Japanese

Judaic Studies

Medieval and Early Modern Studies

Physics and Astronomy

Portuguese

Russian

Writing

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

35% admit rate

Test-optional

Application Deadlines:

Early Decision - November 1

Early Decision II - January 15

Regular Decision - January 15

Beautiful well maintained campus, while some of the buildings look old on the outside, I was quite impressed with the comforts of the inside of the buildings.  The college is right in the middle of the downtown and the town is vibrant, fun, and full of things to do.  It is roughly 2 hours from the Washington DC area, and the closest other city's or towns are Hagerstown, MD, Harrisburg, PA, and Gettysburg, PA.

The science facilities are AMAZING rivaling those I have seen at major research universities.  Dickinson is among the top 10 for students earning Fulbright awards.  Their graduation and employment stats are stellar with well over 90% of their graduates employed or in grad school within 6 months of graduation.

All students are required to reside on campus all four years, this creates a great sense of community for the students and a great love of the college and campus.  Have an on-campus, student-run, bike repair shop.

This is truly an Ivy League quality education without all the stress and pressure of an ivy league school.  I highly recommend it.

Financial Aid:

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships (must apply by December 1st).

Need-aware admission for international students

Notes on the application process:

Counselors are looking for very high-achieving students (with rigorous courses), as well as students that are well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

Were among the first schools to go test-optional and will remain so.

Foreign Language is a graduation requirement, students with fluency in a language other than English can take a placement test.

TOELF/IELTS/DUOlingo is required

Prefer a transcript with the French Grading rather than a converted US transcript.

# data[].attributes.body
Emmanuel College - Private

Boston, MA

Student population: Approximately 2,000
Incoming class: Approximately 450

Campus setting: Urban/Large City

Pictures from my visit to campus

Rankings:

#151 National Liberal Arts Colleges, US News & World Report

#108 Best College for Social Mobility, US News & World Report

#1 Top College in Virginia, Forbes 2022/Money Magazine, 2022

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

American Studies

Art Therapy

Biotechnology

Criminology/Criminal Justice

Digital History

Diplomacy and Security

Graphic Design

Sport Management

Theology and Religious Studies

Application Deadlines:

Early Action - November 1

Early Action II - December 15

Regular Decision - February 15

School Profile:

Emmanuel College is a Catholic, coeducational, residential, liberal arts, and sciences college.  It is in Boston, MA.  Although co-ed now, it was founded in 1919 by as the first Catholic college for women in New England, Emmanuel's campus is in the middle of Boston's educational, scientific, cultural, and medical communities. Students collaborate with faculty on original research and scholarship and 100%  of students participate in at least one internship.  Strong study abroad, service learning, and obviously Boston provides a ton to do.  Of the five colleges I toured this day, Emmanuel was the only one that felt vibrant and active.  There were students everywhere doing things, playing volleyball outside, enjoying each other's company over coffee, and there seems to be real campus spirit.  I very much enjoyed my visit.

Financial Aid:

Require the FAFSA need-based financial assistance..

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Competitive admission, but there is flexibility with test scores, and you do not need a perfect transcript either.

The admission office is looking for strong academics, but also well-rounded students who want to be at a small school that can personalize the education of each student.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and was somewhat knowledgeable of the strength of the French Baccalaureate program.  They understand that both programs prepare students well for college study

Emmanuel is test optional and will remain so in the future.

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Simmons University - Private

Boston, MA

Student population: Approximately 2,000

Incoming class: Approximately 500

Women's College, Co-Ed Graduate Programs

Campus setting: Urban/Large City

Pictures from my visit to campus

Rankings:

#4 Best Value Regional University - North, US News & World Report

#11 Best Regional Universities - North, US News & World Report

#11 Library and Information Science Program Nationally, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Africana Studies

Biostatistics

Chemistry Management

Exercise Science

French and Francophone Studeis

Library & Information Science

Neuroscience and Behavior

Nutrition

Physics

Public Health

Writing

Application deadlines:

Early Action - November 1

Early Action II - December 1

Regular Decision - February 1

School Profile:

Located in the heart of Boston, Simmons provides all the benefits of a small college campus, but because of its location, all the opportunities of a large university.

You can customize your course of study through combinations of programs of study, majors, and minors.  Leadership is BIG here.   Students are involved and engaged in their school.

Boston provides ample internships, clinical experiences, research, and job prospects.  Healthcare, education, technology, and business are all career options and there are a ton of start-ups for aspiring entrepreneurs. Boston offers so much socially, and culturally.  Strong public transit makes exploring the city easy.

Financial Aid:

100% of first-year students received financial aid.

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Simmons is single gender (Female)

Counselors are looking for students who challenge themselves academically, but you do not need perfect grades to be admitted.

Leadership is an important part of the application review.  Show how you are a leader at Rochambeau or in your community.

Their team is very familiar with IB, less so with French Baccalaureate but they value academic rigor and understand both programs offer strong academics

Simmons is test-optional and will be so for the foreseeable future.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Villanova University, Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Villanova University, Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Villanova University, Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA

# data[].attributes.body
Villanova University - Private

Villanova, PA

Student population: ~6,700 students

Campus setting: Suburban

Rankings:

#51 Best National Universities, US News & World Report

#41 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

#40 Best Value College in America, Niche

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience

French & Francophone Studies

Organizational Development and Management

Peace and Justice

Real Estate

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

25% admit rate

3.9 average GPA

Test-optional currently (unsure of if this will be a permanent decision)

Financial Aid:

Application process is need-blind, meaning that admission counselors do not look at a student’s demonstrated financial need when reading an application.

Villanova meets 80% demonstrated financial need.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Drexel University, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
Drexel University, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
Drexel University, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.body
Drexel University - Private

Philadelphia, PA

Student population: ~12,000 students

Campus setting: Urban

Rankings

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Interior Design

Digital Media and Virtual Production

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Exercise Science

Operations and Supply Chain Management

Screenwriting and Playwriting

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

83% acceptance rate

SAT Range 1210-1420 (currently test optional)

One of the most interesting parts of Drexel is their co-op program. The co-op program gives students the opportunity to have an internship while enrolled. While not required, almost all students complete one. This helps students to make connections with potential employers, and many do end up getting jobs as a result of these opportunities.

Financial Aid:

The average scholarship and grant aid offered to first-year students was $34,053.

All students (domestic and international) are automatically considered for merit aid when they apply.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Boston, Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.headline
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Boston, Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.subject
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Boston, Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.body
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences - Private

Boston, MA

Student population: Approximately 4,000

Incoming class: Approximately 800

Campus setting: Urban/Large City

Pictures from my visit

Rankings:

#1 University for Earning Power, Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education

#4 Most Transformative College in the Nation, Money Magazine

#99 Pharmacy School in the United States, US News and World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Acupuncture

Dental Hygiene

Healthcare Business

Nuclear Medicine Technology

Optometry

Physical Therapy

Pharmaceutical Science

Admission Deadlines:

Early Action - November 1

Early Action II - December 1

Regular Decision - February 1

School Philosophy:

MCPHS is a private, not-for-profit, healthcare-focused university with a full spectrum of healthcare programs. Students at MCPHS are professionally focused and driven, and represent almost every state in the U.S. and dozens of foreign countries. My tour guide was from Bulgaria.  Students spend 3 days a week in clinical experiences applying what they learn in the classroom.

Financial Aid:

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Because of the healthcare focus of all the programs, strong preparation in Math and Science is required.

Rochambeau students regardless if they are IB or French Baccalaureate will be well qualified for admission.

Test optional an will remain so into the future.

Pictures from my visit

# data[].attributes.location_name
University of Richmond, Westhampton Way, Richmond, VA

# data[].attributes.headline
University of Richmond, Westhampton Way, Richmond, VA

# data[].attributes.subject
University of Richmond, Westhampton Way, Richmond, VA

# data[].attributes.body
University of Richmond - Private

Richmond, VA

Student population: Approximately 3,000

Campus setting: Mid-Size City

Rankings:

#18 Best Liberal Arts College, US News & World Report

#7 Best-Run College, The Princeton Review 2023

#26 Best Value Private Liberal Arts College, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Latin American, Latino, and Iberian Studies

Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law

Medieval and Renaissance Studies

Law and the Liberal Arts

Acceptance Rates/Admissions Statistics:

24% admit rate

3.8-4.0 average GPA

Test-optional (1500 average SAT score among those who submitted)

One of the most interesting things I learned about the University of Richmond is that they are very committed to students working in the Richmond community, as well as getting hands-on experience. So much that they will pay you to do so! First, they offer a program called Bonner Scholars. This scholarship will give you the opportunity to earn merit scholarships by committing to community service in the Richmond area. Second, they offer a program called The Richmond Guarantee. If a student is completing an internship that is either unpaid or underpaid, the university will provide a stipend up to $5,000 to compensate for their work.

Financial Aid:

Meets 100% demonstrated financial need

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships (must apply by December 1st).

Need-aware admission for international students

Notes on the application process:

Counselors are looking for very high-achieving students (with rigorous courses), as well as students that are well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

Currently unsure about the future of being test-optional. They should have a decision on this soon.

Students automatically apply for the Arts and Sciences school - however, they have the opportunity to apply to the School of Leadership Studies or transfer to the Business School once they are on campus.

Because students may not have as much time to devote to extracurricular activities due to the demands of their studies at Rochambeau, they are encouraged to use the “additional information” section of the application to explain this.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.headline
Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.subject
Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.body
Massachusetts College of Art & Design - Private

Boston, MA

Student population: Approximately 1,900

Incoming class: Approximately 400

Campus setting: Major Urban City

Nickname: Mass Art

Pictures from my visit

Rankings:

#76 Best Colleges for Art in the US, Niche.com

#102 Best Schools for Visual and Performing Arts, CollegeFactual.com

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Animation

Architecture

Illustration

Glass Art (solid and blown glass)

Fashion Design

Jewelry and Metalsmithing

Film/Video

Creative writing (Minor)

Photography

Admission Information:

Early Action - December 1

Regular Decision - February 1

Test Scores are not required

Portfolio is Required 15 - 20 of your strongest and most recent work.

School Preview:

The nation’s first and only public college of art and design, over 150 years old.  A community of artists and designers from all walks of life, excited by the opportunity to learn, live, and do great work together.

Pursuit of a just, compassionate, and equitable learning environment

Cultivation of a rigorous creative practice by observing, questioning, making, and remaking

Honoring courage, honesty, mutual respect, and self-expression

Belief in the power of art and design to transform our world

Personal Insights:
Extremely inclusive, students of all faiths, races, identities, and nationalities will feel welcome here.  Of the schools I have visited, to date, this was my favorite.  The art is amazing, the facilities are great, and the students are friendly and engaging.  This is an artist's happy place.

Financial Aid:

Require the submission of the FAFSA

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Strong academics are required, but perfect grades are not.

Portfolio is very important in the admission process.

Test optional, SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.

Their team was not super familiar with the French Baccalaureate but is very aware of the IB curriculum.

Because of the limited art offerings on the Rochambeau campus, formal outside artistic endeavors are highly encouraged.

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University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.headline
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.subject
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

# data[].attributes.body
University of Pennsylvania - Private

Philadelphia, PA

Student population: Approximately 11,155

Incoming class: Approximately 2,418

Campus setting: Large City/Urban

Rankings:

#7 Best Public National University, US News & World Report

#59Most Innovative Schools, US News & World Report

#22 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, US News & World Report

#1 Best Business Programs, US News & World Report

#1 Nursing Program, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Actuarial Mathematics

American Public Policy

Ancient History

Architecture

Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

Bioethics

Cell and Molecular Biology

Climate Change

City Planning

French and Francophone Studies

Genomics

Jewish History

Immunology

Landscape Architecture

Nanotechnology

Religious Studies

Russian and East European Studies

Acceptance Rates:

9%  Extremally competitive

56,332 Applicants

3,304 Admitted

2,753 students waitlisted

121 Students admitted off the waitlist

School Philosophy:

Penn’s academics, culture, and ecosystem scream innovation and cutting edge.  The education is grounded in the liberal arts and sciences.  The student's interests are diverse and supported by a tremendous amount of academic program offerings.  Penn focuses on offering students an unparalleled education with a vision of the future, intellectual rigor, research, and the desire to create new knowledge.  It is as impressive as you might think an Ivy League education should be.

Financial Aid:

UPenn meets 100% of demonstrated need.

Notes on the application process:

Very competitive, very high-achieving students (with rigorous courses), they are looking for truly impressive forward-thinking students that are well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

Currently test-optional.  However, of note, the admissions person I spoke to shared that Engineering students have a leg up if they apply with strong test scores.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Washington College, Washington Avenue, Chestertown, MD

# data[].attributes.headline
Washington College, Washington Avenue, Chestertown, MD

# data[].attributes.subject
Washington College, Washington Avenue, Chestertown, MD

# data[].attributes.body
Washington College - Private

Chestertown, MD

Student population: Approximately 1,400

Incoming class: Approximately 400

Campus setting: Small Town/Rural

Rankings:

#98 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges, US News & World Report

Princeton Review Best Colleges

#204 Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education, second highest-rated Maryland private college

Nicknames:

the WAC (Wack)

Shoremen & Shorewomen (Athletics)

Goose Nation (The Canadian Goose is the school mascot)

Trivia:

Only college in the world with George Washington's permission to use his name

First College founded in the Country of the United States

War on the Shore - Annual Lacrosse game between WAC and Salisbury University

Sophie Kerr Literary Prize, the largest undergraduate literary award in the US.

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Archaeology

Neuroscience

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Chesapeake Regional Studies

Creative Writing

Earth & Planetary Science

International Economics

Peace and Conflict Studies

Physics

River & Field Campus (this is a must-see)

Acceptance Rates:

80%

Average GPA 3.7 on a 4.0 scale

Average SAT 1270 out of 1600

School Philosophy:

Washington College students work closely with faculty on projects they are passionate about. With independent research and hands-on learning experiences, the students have access to amazing opportunities no matter what they’re studying. There is no feeling of one-size-fits-all at Washington College, students double-major, carry multiple minors, participate in internships, study abroad, and actively shape their education.

Located in Chestertown, Maryland on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, it is heaven for the students who love the outdoors and for those who enjoy a vibrant, close-knit community.

Financial Aid:

95% of students received financial aid.

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

As a top 100 college the admission counselors are looking for high-achieving students who have taken a challenging academic curriculum.

The international admission counselor is familiar with the rigor of the French Baccalaureate program and the entire team is knowledgeable of the IB curriculum and Rochambeau as an institution.

Test-optional, and will remain so in the future.

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Wentworth Institute of Technology, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.headline
Wentworth Institute of Technology, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.subject
Wentworth Institute of Technology, Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.body
Wentworth Institute of Technology - Private

Boston, MA

Student population: 3,958 undergraduate

Incoming class: Approximately 1,000

Campus setting: Large Urban City

Rankings:

#38 Best Regional Universities (North), US News & World Report

#33 Best Engineering Programs, US News & World Report

#2 Best Architecture Degrees, Learn.org

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Architecture

Biological Engineering

Biomedical Engineering

Electromechanical Engineering

Industrial Design

Interior Design

Applied Mathematics

Located in Boston, MA this dynamic institution is the perfect home for a student who wants to attend a school with a strong STEM reputation but that wants a smaller school environment. This is a creator and hands-on learner's paradise.

Wentworth has one of the oldest Cooperative learning programs in the US, allowing students to take what they have learned in the classroom to paid full-time work experiences while they are still in college.

School Philosophy:

Wentworth offers educational programs for which there is a strong labor market demand producing graduates who consistently bring extraordinary value to their organizations and to the world. They require hands-on learning with required cooperative education experiences and have exceedingly caring faculty.
As they say "Wentworth prepares graduates who are future-focused and career-ready."

Notes on the application process:

Offer three application periods

Early Action I

Early Action II

Regular Decision

Deadlines to apply

EA I - November 1

EAII - January 1

RD - February 1

Pre-Calculus is required for admission to many of their programs of study, notably Engineering.

Their team is familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs!

Wentworth is test optional and expects to stay test options into the future.

# data[].attributes.location_name
Emerson College, Boylston Street, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.headline
Emerson College, Boylston Street, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.subject
Emerson College, Boylston Street, Boston, MA

# data[].attributes.body
Emerson College - Private

Located across the street from Boston Common in the heart of the Boston Theater District, Emerson is a creative students' paradise.  Top notch, fil, theater, and communication programs, as good as any in the US.

Campus Location(s)
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Kasteel Well, Netherlands

Pictures from my Visit

Student population: 4,113

Incoming class: Approximately 1,000

Campus setting: Large Urban City

Rankings:

#7 Best Regional University (North), US News & World Report

#6 Best Film School, Hollywood Reporter

#7 Most Innovative School, US News & World Report

#10 Best Undergraduate Teaching, US News & World Report

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Communication Disorders

Creative Writing

International and Political Communication

Media Psychology

Comedic Arts

Film

Sports Communication

Acceptance Rates:

41% of all Applicants

School Philosophy:

Emerson College educates students to assume positions of leadership in communication and the arts and to advance scholarship and creative work that brings innovation, depth, and diversity to these disciplines.  This mission is informed by core liberal arts values that seek to promote civic engagement, encourage ethical practices, foster respect for human diversity, and inspire students to create and communicate with clarity, integrity, and conviction.  The colleges vision is to educate leading professionals in the arts and communication; to inspire generations of students to think boldly and creatively; and to make sure that all we do brightens the cultural, social, political, and civic life around us.

Financial Aid:

3/4 of Emmerson students receive financial assistance in the form of scholarships and grants, need-based financial aid, or both.

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Accepts the Common Application or the Emerson Application.

Offer Early Decision (Binding), Early Action, and Regular Decision application periods

Deadlines:

ED - November 1

EA - November 1

ED II - January 3

RD - January 17

Some programs require an audition or portfolio."

The admission counselors are looking for creative high-achieving students, as well as students that are creative and well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

Emerson is test optional and expects to remain so.

# data[].attributes.location_name
University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

# data[].attributes.headline
University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

# data[].attributes.subject
University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

# data[].attributes.body
The University of Virginia - Public

Charlottesville, Virginia

Student population:
Approximately 17,000 on campus

Incoming class:
Approximately 4,000

Campus setting:
Small City

Rankings:

#3 Best Public National University,

US News & World Report, 2023

#1 Best Value Public College for Financial Aid,

Princeton Review, 2022

#1 Top College in Virginia,

Forbes 2022
Money Magazine, 2022

Nicknames:

The University

UVA

Cavaliers (Athletic Teams)

Wahoos or Hoos (Athletic Teams)

Unique/Interesting Programs of Study:

Health Sciences Management

Cognitive Science

Commerce

Environmental Thought and Practice

Historic Preservation (minor)

Landscape Architecture

Speech Communication Disorders

Acceptance Rates:

In-State: 28%

Out-of-State: 15%

Note: UVA has an agreement with the state of Virginia that their population will remain two-thirds Virginia residents.

School Philosophy:

UVA was intended by Thomas Jefferson to run on what he called “student self-governance.” The goal upon its opening was to “[foster] a culture that places responsibility - along with the power to change - directly in students’ hands.” Therefore, UVA has a remarkable number of student-led endeavors from honor and class councils to even their admission tour script! The tour I went on was completely designed by student guides and was one of the most transparent and informative tours I’ve ever been on.

Financial Aid:

UVA meets 100% of demonstrated need.

Every student is automatically considered for merit scholarships.

Notes on the application process:

Counselors are looking for very high-achieving students (with rigorous courses), as well as students that are well-rounded in their interests.

Their team is very familiar with both IB and French Baccalaureate programs! They see very high value in both, as they understand how rigorous they are.

Currently unsure about the future of being test-optional. They should have a decision on this soon.

Students apply to one of their schools (Arts & Sciences, Business, etc.) and not a specific major. There are a few exceptions, such as nursing.