School Resources & Learning Center

Accredited Schools Online is dedicated to student success. Whether K – 8, high school or college and beyond, we create in-depth, expert-driven guidebooks that tackle key academic and finance-related issues. Many of our guides also address important student health and safety concerns, or help student groups with specific educational and career goals find the information and resources they need to succeed.

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7 Habits of College Dropouts How to Avoid Them

Financial struggles, loneliness and procrastination are all reasons that students who have left college before finishing give as some of the main reasons they were forced to drop out of school. Learn the other reasons college dropouts give for leaving school, and hear from experts how students can avoid these pitfalls and make it to graduation.

11 Relatable Ways to Lose a Good Grade

If you’re a college student, chances are that you’ve made some decisions that impacted your grade. Before you get upset and focus on the negatives, know that you’re not alone and we’ve all been there. To help students understand that these things happen, we put together this list of 11 relatable (and hilarious) ways students let their grades slip.

Academic Probation in College

Academic probation can be a huge blow to your confidence and can have serious academic and financial consequences. But it doesn’t have to mean an end to your college career. Find out what it means to be on academic probation and how to get back on the degree track.

Academic Success for Students with a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury does not have to be a barrier to achieving academic goals. Students of all ages can successfully return to the classroom thanks to a variety of resources, organizations and programs offering TBI support. Learn about the accommodation and accessibility options, get advice on how to deal with challenging scenarios after a TBI, and understand how to better support students with TBI as a parent, teacher or academic administrator.

ACT Prep for College-Bound Students

The ACT is a comprehensive exam that helps institutions determine whether a student is prepared to study at the college level, by testing competency in English, math, reading, science — and an optional writing section. Examinees looking to learn more about this test and gain insider knowledge can find that info in this guide.

Best Apps for College Students

There’s a lot to do and keep track of in college, but fortunately, there’s an app for that! From decorating your dorm to finding scholarships, smartphones can make college life a lot easier. Find out the best apps for college students.

Budgeting for College Students

For many students, college brings newfound control over money and finances. This freedom, however, also comes with responsibility. You’ll have to make sure you have enough funds to cover basic needs and potential emergencies, but you’ll also want to have a little on the side to just have fun. Get expert tips on how to create a realistic budget and stick to it. You can also learn more about several apps that help make budgeting simple and easy to understand.

College Admissions Guide

For any high school senior (or parent), the college admissions process can seem long and onerous. When do you start, what do you compile, and how do you send all the right stuff at the right times? Our experts provide a detailed rundown of the college admissions timeline complete with tips to get things done early and done right.

College Interview Guide

While not always required, the college admissions interview is a good way for students to set themselves apart and learn more about prospective schools. Find out how to prep for a college interview, practice commonly asked interview questions and learn what to do if things go wrong on the big day.

College Options for Students without a GED or High School Diploma

Many people don’t get a chance to finish high school for various reasons but that doesn’t mean the door to higher education is forever closed. There are a few different options you can pursue, even if you don’t currently have a GED or high school diploma. Find out what those options are and what you’ll need to do to get back on track.

Colleges with Late Application Deadlines in 2018

For most colleges, the application deadline for regular decision is January 1 or 15. Because of family, work or personal obligations, however, some students may need to apply later in the year. Fortunately, there are several colleges across the country with deadlines in February through September. Search for schools with late application deadlines and get expert tips for staying organized so you don’t miss the big due date.

Dual Enrollment for High School Students

Whether students are looking to get a head start on earning college credits, explore subjects that aren’t covered in traditional high school classes, take on a more rigorous or engaging workload or get an early glimpse of life after high school, dual enrollment can be an excellent route to take. Keep reading for information about dual enrollment programs and how they compare with other college-level academic programs, and gain advice and insights from dual enrollment insiders.

Extracurricular Activities, College Acceptance & Getting Hired

College acceptance and the job market are competitive. Applicants to schools and jobs are looking for just the right edge to put them ahead of the pack, and quite often, she or he who has the most extracurricular activities wins. Not any extracurricular activity will do, however. Students should cultivate and carefully curate the outside activities that will matter most to both admissions officers and hiring managers. This guide will help students determine which activities matter most, how many activities are too many, how to present those activities in the best light possible and why extracurricular activities matter so much.

Find a Pre-College Summer Program

High school students have the opportunity to get a taste of college life via pre-college summer programs. These programs run the gamut from robotics to literature. Learn more about pre-college summer programs, and use the search tool in this guide to find one in your state or favorite university.

First-Generation College Students

Being the first in the family to get a higher education can come with unique challenges. This guide addresses some of the hurdles first-generation college students face and provides information on paying for a college degree, programs that help first-gen students and what to consider when applying to schools.

Freshman Mistakes

Managing your credits, choosing a major, building up a new social network while still making time to study. There are a lot of new experiences to navigate during the first year of college and a lot of chances to slip up. Discover the most common freshman mistakes and get expert tips on how you can avoid them.

Gaming in College: Student Addiction Support & Resources

Although video gaming seems like a normal activity for college students, it’s important to be aware of when this casual hobby turns into a full-blown addiction. This guide covers what gaming addictions and disorders are, how to determine when you or your student has a gaming dependency, and where to seek help in college. Subject matter expert, Dr. Lori Whatley, also offers advice on how to balance academics and gaming in college.

Getting the Most out of Academic Advising in College

Academic advisors play an important role in encouraging student success by helping them navigate college and determine the path best for them. However, students should not expect their advisor to do all the work—successful advising appointments rely on the students being involved as well. This guide explains what academic advisors can help with and how students can prepare for and maximize their appointment time.

GMAT Prep for Students: Expert Advice & Tips for Success

The GMAT exam is often required for admission to MBA programs and whether or not you pass can have a direct impact on your business school application. Prospective students looking to know more about this test and how to succeed can learn about it here.

Going Back to College as an Older Adult

More than a third of undergraduate students are older than 25, and these adult students likely face challenges of not only financing their educations, but balancing work and family time along with their studies. This guide provides tips for easing this transition, paying for college and addressing the hurdles that may arise when older adults make a return to college.

Graduate School Guide

A comprehensive guide to graduate school, including making the decision to go, the types of degree programs available, and how to get the most out of your experience. Also read about the highest return on investment degrees, find scholarships, and read advice and tips from grad school experts.

GRE Fast Study Guide

Whether it takes a while to decide on an academic discipline or the application deadline is sneaking up fast, many potential grad students find themselves in a time crunch when it comes to studying for and taking the GRE. If you’re in this boat, have no fear: This guide provides a truncated study schedule, checklist for getting organized, and expert advice from an examinee who managed a perfect score.

Guide to Studying Abroad

Studying abroad gives college students the opportunity to experience life-changing growth and one-in-a-lifetime experiences in another country as they gain college credit. Going away to another country for an entire semester or longer takes planning and organization. This guide offers comprehensive lists, timelines, a sample budget and more to ensure the study abroad experience goes smoothly.

Hidden Gem Colleges & Universities

Universities like Harvard, Yale and Stanford have no shortage of applicants, which is why it’s no surprise that less than 10 percent of those who apply get in. These schools are in high demand for good reason: they offer some of the best educational opportunities in the country. There are lesser known schools, however, offering enriching opportunities and tremendous educations at a fraction of the cost. Many of these hidden gem schools are underrated and underappreciated, but students are enjoying high employment rates and low student debts upon graduating from these schools. Learn more about hidden gem schools that are worth their weight in gold.

High Paying Associate Degrees

You may have heard the best way to make a lot of money in your career is to earn a degree. It’s true, but you don’t need a Master’s or a PhD; an associate degree can pay off big if you choose the right field. Check out the high paying careers you can get after earning an associate degree and learn more about how to get there.

High School Equivalency Exams

There is a pathway to college that doesn’t involve a traditional high school diploma, and there are other avenues besides the GED. Understanding your options and finding the right high school equivalency exam for you is the key first step. Read this guide for an in-depth look at the various high school equivalency exams available and tips to help you select the best fit.

How to Apply to College as a Homeschooler

Applying for college as a homeschooler isn’t any more difficult than applying as a traditional student, but some differences do exist. It’s best to know and understand what is required of homeschool students during the college application process early on, and work towards fulfilling those requirements as a continual process throughout the high school years. Learn more about applying to college as a homeschooler, find resources and scholarships especially for homeschoolers, and hear from an expert homeschool educator and a homeschool student who successfully applied to college.

How to Choose the Right College

Choosing the right college doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s how to sift through options to find the best academic and personal fit. This guide also provides expert advice and answers common questions.

How to Choose Your Field of Study

With so many bachelor’s degrees available to students, finding the perfect fit can feel extremely overwhelming. Whether you’re currently enrolled in college or still making plans to attend, this guide will help answer some of the common questions about choosing a major, calm anxieties about making the “right” choice and provide additional info and support on your journey.

How College Accreditation Works

When a school is accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, it is eligible for federal funding and its students are eligible for federal student aid. The accreditation means an academic program meets standards. Learn how to determine school accreditation, why it matters, and what can happen if you choose a school that’s not accredited.

How to Earn College Credits in High School

Participating in programs that allow gifted high school students to earn college credits not only helps them save money on tuition but provides them invaluable experience with college-level work and a leg-up with admissions committees at their desired colleges. Read this guide to learn how to tap AP, IB and summer college programs to earn college credits early.

How to Get a Great Letter of Recommendation

Applying for college admissions or for a new job can feel incredibly daunting, because it’s not hard to imagine that thousands of other applicants are submitting applications with similar – or even better – credentials than you. Your ace in the hole could very well be the letters of recommendation you get from teachers, professors and supervisors. Find out how to ask for, and get, great recommendation letters.

How to Get to Into Grad School With a Low GPA

Although GPA is an important factor that graduate schools look at when evaluating prospective students, a lower GPA doesn’t have to keep students from getting into grad school. In this guide, we provide information on how students can still be accepted despite having a low GPAs and discuss what other criteria schools consider when evaluating prospective grad students.

How to Prevent Students from Dropping Out

A student drops out of high school every 26 seconds and nearly four million college students drop out each year. There are many reasons students don’t stay in school school, but there’s also much parents and schools can do to keep students from dropping out.

How to Study in the USA as an International Student

With so many top high schools and colleges, the US is a popular destination for international students looking to study aboard. Whether participating in a short-term experience or pursuing a degree program, this guide outlines costs and requirements for studying in the US as an international high school or college student. Before leaving home, make sure you have everything in order so you can make the most of your US experience.

How to Transfer to Online Schools

Transferring from a brick and mortar school to an online school can be confusing. What happens to the previous credits you earned? How do you choose the right school? Do you have to apply first to enroll? If you’re considering switching from a traditional classroom setting to online learning, this guide will walk you through the process to help you find the right school and ensure your credits transfer over.

How Regional Accreditation Works

Although there are a number of different types of college accreditation, regional accreditation is often considered the “gold standard” by institutions, employers and degree-holders. Find out why regional accreditation is so important, how to find out if your school is regionally accredited and which accreditation agencies are active in your state.

Landing a Dream Career in STEM

Some of the highest-paying careers today can be found in STEM industries: science, technology, engineering and math. Find more information on the hottest jobs and industries, how organizations and educators are advocating for and promoting women and minorities in these fields, and get resources for landing or furthering a rewarding STEM career with this guide.

Learn About Nationally Accredited Colleges

This guide explains the difference between national and regional college accreditation and why both matter. Learn how accreditation works and see which accreditation agencies are accrediting schools on the national level.

Learning Styles for Students Kindergarten through College

After a few years in the classroom, it becomes quite obvious that everyone has a different way of learning the same subject matter. While one person might take copious notes, another might doodle and appear not to listen at all – but both of them make great grades. This is just one example of how different students in the same classroom can have entirely individual learning styles. Take the learning styles quiz and find the styles that go best with online learning.

Libraries as Student Makerspaces

‌Makerspaces can be attached to anything from robotics and product production, to papercraft and Lego building but at their core, they promote creation and exploration. Read this guide for a deeper dive into makerspaces, how they’ve provided opportunities for individuals and small groups to make stuff and learn from one another, and how they can be invaluable resources for students and learners of all ages.

LSAT Prep for Students: Expert Advice & Tips for Success

The LSAT exam is often required for law school admission and whether or not you pass can predict if law school is right for you. Prospective students looking to know more about this test, how to register and learn tips for success may benefit from this guide.

MOOC Guidebook

By offering free online courses without limit to how many students can participate, MOOCs offer students a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and education in a nearly unlimited variety of topics. Rather than being offered for college credit, most MOOCs are offered by many esteemed institutions in the spirit that knowledge should be shared and free. There are some exceptions, however, and some MOOCs do offer the opportunity to gain a credential. This guide explores all kinds of MOOCs and offers advice on getting the most out of them.

Moving Back Home After College

Whether it’s because of student loan debt, unemployment or a gap year, many college grads are moving back home to live with mom and dad. If you’re one of these graduates – or are a parent of a boomerang grad – this guide can help you prepare for the transition and ensure it’s only a temporary solution.

Navigating College Wait Lists

Being put on a school’s waiting list may feel like a terrible turn of events in a student’s journey to attend college. A wait list may seem like an outright rejection, but schools have an important, practical reason for using them, which doesn’t have anything to do with a specific group of applicants themselves. There are, however, things that students can do to deal with the situation. This guide provides info and expert advice on navigating the college wait list process.

Note-Taking in College

Developing effective study skills is critical to the academic success of a college student. Of these skills, effective note-taking can play a huge role in determining how information and ideas are recalled, digested and employed. Additionally, students looking for ways to improve their reading comprehension can also take advantage of tips and tricks for getting the most out of the text at hand. Use this guide to help you learn how to take your study skills to the next level.

Online College Courses

Continuing your education or advancing in your career doesn’t have to mean enrolling in a full degree program. Individual online courses are an increasingly popular and convenient way to continue learning, no matter your interests. Learn more about the different types of online courses, how much they cost and what they entail.

Online Colleges that Don’t Require the SAT or ACT

Some students just aren’t good test-takers even though they have a GPA that would suggest otherwise. And many people argue standardized tests aren’t good predictors of college success. Those are just a couple reasons why more and more colleges are using test-optional admission policies. If you’re worried about your SAT or ACT scores, find out more about how test-optional admission policies work and what you’ll need to do when applying to a college without those scores.

Online Colleges with Open Enrollment

When it comes to grades and SAT/ACT scores, not all students are at the top of their class. For some, straight As and perfect scores come naturally but for others, the results can be more of a mixed bag due to a variety of reasons. Everyone, however, can benefit from a college education, even if their GPA and standardized test scores are less-than-stellar. For this reason, many colleges have open enrollment policies, which grant admission to anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent. Learn more about open enrollment colleges, including how the application process works and which online colleges welcome all students with open arms.

Online Community Colleges

There were over five million students enrolled in public two-year colleges in 2016, and some of them attended classes online. There are many benefits of attending a community college, including the often-cheaper price of tuition when compared to four-year schools, and online community college programs offer even more benefits to their students including flexibility and the ability to start college at a slower pace. Learn which students can benefit most from an online community college education, find resources, and hear what an expert has to say about online learning at community colleges.

Online School Guidebook

Extensive online education opportunities exist for elementary school, middle school, high school and college students. Most k-12 students have access to public or private online school, while virtually every college offers one or more online degree programs. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) such as Coursera and edx provide yet another way for students to learn online. This guide provides k-12 and college students and parents online school resources along with tips, tricks and information on getting the most out of an online school experience.

Preventing Plagiarism

Students across the country plagiarize, whether intentionally or not. Some knowingly copy large sections of text to cut corners, while others grab portions of a text thinking it’s academically ok. For students, there may be confusion. For educators, the challenge is stopping it from happening. This guide dives into plagiarism, how to understand it as a student, and how to prevent it as an educator.

Reading Fluency in School

A whopping 2 out of every 3 children fail to achieve proficiency in reading. And studies have shown that a lack of reading proficiency leads to problems down the line. The good news is that reading fluency — the ability to read text aloud, accurately and quickly — can be improved or enhanced at any age, but it’s an especially important endeavor in K-12 environments. This guide delves into what reading fluency and comprehension mean, how parents and teachers can help students become better readers and what resources exist to further the cause.

Taking a Gap Year Before College

Whether traveling the world, volunteering or working, taking a gap year between high school and college can be a great experience. It’s an opportunity for exploration, personal growth and resume-building. Find out what you’d need to do to take a gap year, learn about the pros and cons, and get expert tips on preparing for or applying to college after the year is over.

SAT Prep Guide for High School & College Students

Before diving into post-secondary degrees and all the learning opportunities awaiting their arrival, all college hopefuls must take a standardized test used by admission offices and scholarship panels. The SAT, or Scholastic Assessment Test, is the most popular option in America (alongside the ACT) as evidenced by the 1.7 million high school seniors who sat for the exam in 2015. It may seem scary at first, but students who take time to understand the test, develop strategies, and prepare thoroughly need not worry. This guide aims to help with those goals.

Scholarships & Grants for Non-Traditional College Students

Scholarships and financial aid are top of mind for all students, especially for nontraditional college students. Nontraditional students come from diverse backgrounds and have unique funding needs that may not impact traditional students. Learn who these students are, explore available scholarships and grants and get connected to additional resources to help succeed in school.

School Fundraising

Budget cuts have led to an increased need for school and classroom fundraising. These events can be beneficial in many ways. In addition to raising necessary funds, it can also be a great way to teach students of all ages valuable skills and also help foster a sense of community. This guide includes tips and strategies from various experts and educators as well as several resources to help teachers, parents, and others plan and spearhead a successful school fundraiser event.

Self-Improvement for College Students

Pursuing self-improvement while in college is a great way to expand your skills outside of the classroom. While completing a degree is a huge accomplishment, balancing academics with other personal development strategies can make you a better student while still in school and improve your abilities in other ways. Explore what self-improvement is, various strategies to get started and expert advice for getting the most out of self-improvement in college.

Service Learning For High School And College Students

High school and college students who are interested in taking what they learn in the classroom to make a difference in real world communities should consider participating in service-learning. Find out what service-learning is, how it’s different from community service, the benefits of participating and how to get involved.

Should You Pursue a Dual Degree

Is two degrees better than one? In the case of dual degrees, the answer is “it depends.” In some fields, such as business and technology or business and law, a dual degree can open some big doors of opportunity. Of course, earning a dual degree takes more time, work and money, but could be worth it depending on your future goals. Learn more about dual degrees, get advice and find valuable resources in this guide.

Social Media in the Classroom

Social media is everywhere–we use it for work, school and fun. But there are still many questions about whether or not the same social media sites parents, teachers and students use in their personal lives can also be helpful learning tools at school. Learn more about some of the opportunities and challenges surrounding the use of social media in the classroom and get expert advice and ideas on incorporating social media technology and teaching online responsibility, to start successfully blending lessons with a variety of social media platforms.

Student’s Guide to Starting a Business Right After College

Research from the Center for Generational Kinetics found 74% of millennials said they’d be more likely to start their own business if they knew where to get help. Starting a business is tough for anyone, but the process can be especially daunting for new grads who don’t yet have years of experience under their belts so may not know where or how to start. This guide offers tips and advice from two young entrepreneurs. Find out the steps they took to launch their successful businesses and get information and resources to help you do the same.

Student Public Speaking Guide

No matter what you’re majoring in, as a college student, you’ll be expected to give a presentation at some point during your time at school. This makes college the perfect time to conquer public speaking anxiety, and this guide can help get you started with support, useful resources, tips and expert advice on giving impactful, dynamic presentations and delivering concise, interesting speeches.

Student Success with a Learning Disability

Jim Rein, M.A., has lectured around the country on post-secondary options and summer programs for children and young adults with learning and attention issues. Rein co-founded and served for 20 years as Dean of the Vocational Independence Program at New York Institute of Technology (NYIT). He also co-founded Introduction to Independence, a summer work-study program at NY IT, and Vista, a vocational and life skills center in Westbrook, Connecticut.

Successful Careers for Cooking Fans

For love, money or both? Those who enjoy cooking don’t have to settle for working in a standard culinary career. Learn about the options outside of the restaurant or food service industry for people who want to translate their passion for food into the classroom. Explore different industries and get details on alternative degrees, with and tips on how to make money if cooking is what you love.

Technology for K-12 & College Classrooms

From digital tools such as tablets and computers to fully online degree programs, technology continues to fundamentally alter historic student engagement and instructional delivery methods. These exciting trends in education will only continue with the development of new and improved educational technologies and tools. The educational technology examples provided in this guide offer insight and highlight common characteristics and features of many of the most widely used educational technology tools being used in K-12 and college classrooms.

Top Study Skills to Master Before College

College seems tough – that’s why students must go prepared with the proper study skills. But what carried them through high school with great grades should be just fine, right? Well, not exactly. Even the most successful high school students might be surprised with how different college learning can be. The following guide aims to provide as much study insight as possible to the incoming college student, so they can be ready to succeed well before the first day of class. Evaluate your own study skills and learn how to improve them for college here.

Traveling as a College Student

Although traveling may seem unrealistic for current college students, there are many discounts and programs available to help them travel on a budget while maintaining their academics. In this guide, we provide information on how students can travel while pursuing their degree, find student-specific discounts and expert advice to making the most of their travels.

Understanding Social-Emotional Learning

Social-emotional learning has proven effective in K-12 classrooms over the last two decades, with benefits including better academic performance, fewer disciplinary incidents and greater awareness and understanding for students about how to handle their emotions. This guide explains social-emotional learning, outlines its benefits, highlights how other schools have implemented the framework and provides expert insights and additional support.

What to Do if You’re Failing a College Class

Your GPA, financial aid and acceptance to graduate school can all be put at risk by a failing grade. Find out what you should do if you’re struggling in a college class. Plus, get expert advice on when to drop, withdraw or take an incomplete.

Writing Resources for College Students

College and high school students will need to write many essays throughout their academic years. Find out the types of essays they may be required to write, and how to find and evaluate academic resources. Plus, learn how to outline a paper and discover strategies for effective proofreading.

Bullying Awareness Guidebook

Bullying affects students at all academic levels and manifests any a variety of different forms – physical, psychological, cyber and more. The following guide looks at bullying in-depth, uncovers patterns, prevention techniques, includes resources, and, most importantly, offers key advice and tips from multiple experts in psychology and education.

Dealing with Peer Pressure in School

Most people will experience some form of peer pressure during their lifetime, but it can be especially difficult for students. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help students overcome peer pressure, as well as a wealth of information for parents who want to support their children. Explore this guide to gain a better understanding of what peer pressure is, how it affects students, and how to resist negative pressures.

Child Vision Problems in the Classroom

Vision issues can contribute to learning problems, poor academic and athletic performance and behavioral issues in the classroom. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can help equip children with the tools needed to succeed. Find out how to spot common learning-related vision problems in the classroom.

College Substance Use and Abuse

College may be the first time students experience drug and alcohol use. Changing cultural norms have made substance use in college more “acceptable” in recent years. Students should be aware of and prepared for the substance use, and abuse, encounters they might face during their time in school. Use this guide to help navigate the social situations and addiction and recovery possibilities associated with drugs and alcohol abuse to make sure your college experience is a fun and safe one.

Emergency Preparedness in School

Natural disasters and other emergencies can happen at any time, and schools are responsible for the safety of their students and staff when the time comes. This guide offers an in-depth look at natural disaster risk across the country, with detailed preparedness steps and resources for earthquakes, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes and active shooter events. This guide also features college student preparedness checklists, information and options for grab-n-go emergency kits, and advice from our school safety expert.

First-Year College Student Mental Health

The excitement of going off to college for the first time is undeniable. Freshman students have so much to look forward to, including new classes, new friends and living apart from their families. Along with that excitement, other emotions are bound to creep in, emotions such as homesickness and loneliness. These feeling are normal, but when they lead to depression, it’s time to get help. This guide helps freshman college students how to navigate new territory and how to deal with common emotions that are experienced by most new college students.

Full Ride Scholarships for College Students

Full ride scholarships are certainly rare, but there are many ways to earn them. While most of these scholarships are offered through schools, full-ride scholarships can be won privately for more than just sports and academics. This guide addresses common questions about these awards, expert tips to landing them, and 16 available full-ride scholarships for students.

Girls’ Guide to Health & Happiness

By high school, less than one third of girls feel positive about themselves. And this lack of self-worth can have a direct impact on academic performance. Fortunately, there is much that parents, teachers and schools can do to support the health and happiness of girls and boost their self-esteem.

Guide to Healthy Communication & Debate for Students

Learning how to debate the issues of the day and communicate respectfully and constructively is crucial to success in school and later on in life. In this guide, two experts weigh in on what constitutes true debate and how students can engage in dialog in a professional manner. We also offer tips and techniques on communicating effectively when working with fellow students on group projects, and we discuss why college is a great time to be exposed to new belief systems.

Guide to Safety & School Success for Kids with Allergies & Asthma

Childhood allergies and asthma are a growing concern, which makes finding the right school a daunting task. From safety to academic performance to bullying, there’s a lot for parents of children with allergies/asthma to think about. This guide offers parents some peace of mind by providing tips to ensure kids with allergies/asthma are safe, happy and succeeding in school. You’ll also find helpful advice from an allergy expert and information on apps and products to alleviate symptoms and prevent serious reactions.

Helping Students Cope with Grief

Students, particularly in college, undergo tremendous growth and change in school as they move towards graduation. It’s quite possible that during this time of growth and maturation, they may be faced with a loss that leads to grieving. Whether it’s the loss of a pet or something more serious such as the loss of a parent or friend, students need help and resources to enable them to manage their grief and not give up on their academic aspirations.

Parents’ Guide to Suicide Prevention

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students in the U.S. Supporting a student who struggles with mental health can be difficult for parents. This guide provides expert advice and resources for parents of high school and college students to help them provide compassionate support for their children.

Preventing Student Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a serious problem among students, with 26% of teens reading or sending a text at least once every time they drive. Unsafe driving habits like using a cellphone, focusing on the radio or eating behind the wheel are all common teen behaviors and can all lead to an accident. Find out what parents, schools and students can do to reduce distracted driving.

Preventing Violence in K-12 Schools

An alarming number of violent acts have been committed on K-12 school grounds ranging from small rural schools to large metropolitan campuses. There are many things that can be done to help troubled students and create a safer learning environment for all. This guide provides insight from school safety and mental health experts, plus concrete and practical advice for educators, administrators, parents, and students.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Recovery

There are many assumptions and gray areas surrounding the topic of sexual assault. This page provides answers to common questions, including what consent does (and doesn’t) look like, and gives definitions to what constitutes misconduct, rape and more. Get a rundown of how to help sexual assault survivors of all ages and learn if a situation you’ve experienced was sexual assault or not.

Stress Management in School

Excess stress in school can cause physical and emotional symptoms in students. But parents and teachers can make small changes to help reduce stress in the classroom. Find out how to identify signs of stress in students from elementary school to college. Plus, discover ways students can lessen and manage stress.

Student Eating Disorder Resources

Stress can be a leading factor in developing an eating disorder, and college students experience their fair share of it. Moving away from home, making new friends and an unfamiliar routine can all lead to disordered eating behavior. Students can use this guide to identify the symptoms of an eating disorder in themselves and others, learn how common eating disorders are treated and find out where to get help on campus and in their community.

Student Guide to Managing Chronic Conditions at School

Millions of students attend school while managing a variety of chronic health conditions, including epilepsy, diabetes, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, lupus and more. While some of these conditions are more severe than others, there are important steps students can take to stay healthy and thrive in their learning environments. This guide offers tips, tools and valuable resources for managing chronic health conditions at school.

Student Nutrition & Fitness Guide

As witnessed by the shocking statistics on childhood obesity, students of all ages are striving to find the balance between healthy eating and physical activity. This guide explores the issues involved and offers wellness solutions and resources with special sections for K-12 students and college students.

Students & First Time Voters

Voting is one of the easiest and most powerful ways for Americans to make their voices heard, but it can be a confusing and even intimidating process for first-timers. Get to know more about voting rights and requirements, dispel common myths, learn the ins and outs of political parties and get tips from an election expert here, and prepare to exercise the right to vote with confidence this election season.

Support for Students with Serious Illnesses

There was a time when a serious or life-threatening illness meant forgoing education, at least for a while. But times are changing for the better. There are now so many academic resources available to help students with serious illnesses continue their education and detail how educators and parents can support their student while managing a serious illness. That’s where this guide comes in, providing information that can help students with serious illnesses reach their full academic potential.

Transportation in College & on Campus

For students who don’t own a car or live in an area with good public transportation, getting to a college campus can be impossible. For other students, getting around a large college campus can be fraught with frustrations, from where to park to how to get to class in a blizzard. Get solutions to your college transportation problems in this guide, and get expert advice.

Workouts for College Students

Balancing a busy school schedule with regular exercise can be tough. Fortunately, you don’t need a complicated routine or equipment to get in shape in college. Get tips for how to add exercise to your day. Plus, try our expert’s easy five-minute, 30-minute and hour workout routines.

Zen Living: Fitting Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness into Your School Schedule

Most students experience some level of stress at school, but students deal with stress in many different ways. While some may choose to eat unhealthy, stay up late, or engage in other unhealthy activities, there is a better way. School is a great place to practice Zen living and engage in healthy lifestyle practices such as yoga, meditation, mindful eating and holistic wellness. Learn more about the mind/body connection for students and find out how students are achieving and staying in the Zen zone, and how you can, too.

6 Ways to Maximize Your GI Bill Benefits

The GI Bill is an education benefit made available to military members and veterans. While most GI Bills are aimed toward currently-serving members and veterans, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can also be used by spouses and dependent children under certain situations. Find out if you qualify for GI Bill benefits and how to best use them to pursue your higher education goals.

41 College Scholarships for High School Students

It’s never too early to start applying for and landing scholarships. By starting the scholarship hunt early, students can increase their chances of receiving a scholarship and have a better idea of their finances before choosing a college. This guide breaks down available scholarships that high school students can apply, expert tips to maximize their chances of winning an award, and additional resources to help them land money for college.

Asian & Pacific Islander College Support: Scholarships & Resources

Although enrollment of Asian or Pacific Islander students continues to increase, there are still many challenges these students might face in college. Fortunately, there are many scholarships and support resources available on college campuses to help these students succeed in school. Check out this page to explore available scholarships, resources and expert advice for API college students.

Catholic Scholarships

Catholic scholarships are available to help Catholic students pay for their education. While some of these scholarships come directly from Catholic colleges and universities, some are open to all catholic students and are awarded based on student values, faith and service. This guide offers expert advice, tips and resources for Catholic students to apply for and get the most money for school.

College Application Fee Waivers

The cost of applying to colleges can add up to hundreds of dollars when you consider that each application costs anywhere from $50 to $70. The cost of applying to college should never be a reason not to apply, though, especially when there are ways to get around paying for the cost of applying. Learn about college application fee waivers and the different ways in which you can apply to college for free.

College Scholarships for Hobbies and Interests

Whether you’re a dancer, ice sculpture, poet or crossword puzzle enthusiast, there’s probably a scholarship for your specific interest or hobby. To help you find and apply for these scholarships, we’ve compiled 34 hobby-based scholarships along with expert advice to land them. Explore our list of scholarships for college and see if you qualify for any awards.

College Without Debt

Students typically borrow to pay for college, but this option can leave students with considerable debt after graduation. As a result, it’s necessary to search for alternative ways to pay for higher education expenses, whether through scholarships and grants or in non-traditional ways like crowdfunding and work-study programs. Learn more about these four ways to pay your way through school and keep your higher education journey completely (or at least mostly) debt-free.

Cost of Online Learning

You may be wondering which is cheaper: an online degree, or a campus degree. It depends on several factors, including type of program chosen, school and living expenses. When considering the cost of getting a degree online, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. This guide will show you how to calculate the net price of college degree programs and how to compare online and campus programs.

Everything You Need to Know about the FAFSA

Filling out the FAFSA is necessary for students to receive federal student financial aid, including Pell grants. Filling out the FAFSA isn’t hard, you just need to have the right information assembled to do so. Learn what information you’ll need to have on hand as you begin filling out the FAFSA, and get some of your FAFSA question answered in our FAFSA guidebook.

Financial Aid Advice for Middle Class Students

Students from middle-class families are often hit with a harsh reality when it comes to planning for college: traditional financial aid methods might not be available based on their family income level. However, that doesn’t mean finding help paying for school isn’t possible. Get advice on how to make college more affordable for the average, middle-class student.

Financial Aid for Minority Students

Paying for college may seem a tough task for anyone. However, governments, organizations and private companies offer scholarships to help students defray the cost of higher education. This guide explores scholarship and other funding options for minority students, including resources to help them discover what’s out there, where to look, and when and how to apply.

Guide to Affordable Schools

What makes a school affordable? The first step is to understand what exactly goes into the cost – tuition, room, board and other fees. The second is learning all payment options available and how those can work together to minimize expenses. Learn from experts about the real cost of college and how scholarships, grants and some financial aid savvy can keep bills low and the likelihood of a degree much higher.

Online Colleges That Accept MyCAA

While most educational financial aid for the military is focused on the service member themselves, there is a program just for service-members’ spouses. Eligible program participants can receive up to $4,000 toward earning a license, certificate, certification or two-year associate degree in a variety of career fields and occupations – but not all spouses are eligible. Learn about the program for military spouses and find schools that accept MyCAA benefits.

Online School Financial Aid

Financial aid remains the primary way for students to pay for a college education. But what about online learning? Do students with online education on the mind have the same financial aid options as those in a fully brick-and-mortar degree program? Yes, and no. Learn the keys to landing the right aid for online school.

Identifying Unscrupulous Student Loan Tactics

Student loans account for the second largest type of debt in America, with more than 44 million borrowers currently owing a combined total of nearly $1.5 trillion. Many students are using financial aid to make attending college possible, which means that there are more possibilities for lender abuses. In addition to mounting lawsuits against servicing agencies, complaints filed by borrowers are also on the rise. Approximately 770 complaints were received from January through March in 2016, while 3,284 were received during the same period in 2017. Prospective students or current borrowers looking to understand the world of student lending and loan repayment will find valuable information in the following guide, including how to spot predatory lending habits and illegal behaviors and what to do about them.

LGBTQ Scholarships by State

There are tons of scholarships available for LGBTQ students and allies but they aren’t always easy to find. This guide helps make the process a little easier for students and their parents by listing LGBTQ scholarships by state. You’ll also find tips for applying to a scholarship and information on how to find an inclusive, supportive school – and city – if you’re thinking of moving away from home.

‌MBA Scholarships

Getting a business degree can be expensive but well worth the investment. If you’re concerned about paying for your MBA, there are tons of financial aid opportunities available to help you cover the cost. This guide features MBA scholarships for all b-school students, including awards for minorities, women and servicemembers. You’ll also find helpful tips from two MBA scholarship recipients on how to improve your chances of winning a grant. Don’t let the cost of an MBA get in the way of your career goals.

Native American Student Scholarships & Resources

Native Americans have some of the highest high school and college dropout rates of all demographic groups. Couple this with the fact that only a small portion of Native American students enroll in college in the first place, and it’s not hard to understand how they are underrepresented in institutions of higher learning. The reasons for this are many and complicated, but often boil down to the lack of academic and financial resources available to many Native American students. On the positive side, there are special scholarships and grants available to Native American students, along with support from advocacy groups. The purpose of this guide is to provide an overview of the scholarships and grants available, as well as potential help through tribal colleges for Native American students.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Hispanic Students

While Hispanic learners are expected to make up almost 50 percent of all K-12 U.S. students by 2040, they still lag behind other ethnic and racial groups when it comes to achieving a post-secondary education. Black, white and Asian people hold a higher percentage of bachelor’s degrees than Hispanics currently, but many organizations are in place to help Hispanic students achieve their higher education goals. This guide offers support and guidance for Hispanic, first generation, migrant and undocumented students including scholarship information, how undocumented students can get help paying for school, and the unique challenges and opportunities available to first-generation students and students from migrant worker families.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Veterans and Dependents

Those who have served the country honorably should not have to go into debt or take on a financial burden to receive a college education. While veterans have important aid for attending college in the form of the GI Bill and related benefits, the GI Bill doesn’t always cover all a veteran’s college expenses. Additionally, while servicemember dependents have some college funding benefits available as well, they don’t usually cover all costs. That’s where other financial aid, such as scholarships and grants, can fill in some gaps. Learn how veterans and benefits can get all the funds they are entitled to in order to attend college, and look over dozens of scholarships in this comprehensive guide to scholarships and financial aid for veterans and dependents.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Women

Women who are looking for scholarships, grants and financial aid that doesn’t have to be paid back have some interesting and useful resources available to them. It’s crucially important to understand how and when to apply for financial aid and scholarships, and how to stand out from the rest of the applicants. This guide offers a large list of grants, fellowships, and scholarships for women, including those for STEM majors, leadership, single mothers and nontraditional students. Find out how to apply for scholarships for women and what’s required to receive a grant or fellowship.

Scholarships For Black Students

With the rising cost of college, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for African-American students to fund their education without going into debt. On average, black students will end up owing nearly $8,000 more than other students. Fortunately, there are plenty of scholarships and financial aid available to help black students afford college and reach their academic goals. Explore available scholarships and see if you qualify for any here.

Stress-Free Guide to Student Loans

Carrying student loan debt can be an overwhelming experience, but there are ways for students to take control of their finances and work with lenders to create a plan for success. This guide takes a deep dive into student lending, repayment practices and managing mental health.

Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

Student loan balances topped $1.5 trillion during 2018, according to the Federal Reserve. However, the federal government is poised to let many borrowers off the hook for billions in outstanding balances. Can you get a piece of the action? This guide will walk you through the various loan forgiveness programs offered by the federal government and at the state level.

Students with Disabilities Financial Aid Guidebook

Students with disabilities run into many of the same hurdles as most other students when it comes to finding the money to attend school. That’s why understanding financial aid options and finding scholarships specifically for students with disabilities is so important. This guide offers a comprehensive listing of scholarships specifically for students with disabilities, listed by disability, along with tips, tricks and expert advice on obtaining financial aid beyond scholarships as well. Readers will also hear from deaf and hard-of-hearing scholarship recipients on what to look for when choosing a school to best meet your needs.

‌Preparing for College with a 529 Plan

A 529 plan offers several tax advantages for those preparing to send a child to college. Yet surveys show many people don’t know what a 529 is, how to open one or how to take advantage of the benefits. Whether you’re starting to save early on or only have a couple years before the start of college, this guide can help you decide if a 529 is the best savings plan for you and your child.

American Sign Language Degrees

Almost any workplace or field can benefit from an employee fluent in American Sign Language, and students looking to study it can choose from a variety of degree levels and focus areas. Find out more about ASL degrees – including Interpreting and Deaf Culture and Studies—and which schools offer them.

College Advice for Rural Students

Rural students are the least likely to go to college, despite being some of the best and brightest students in the U.S. Learn about some of the college myths and other unique challenge rural students face and get advice on how to overcome them and make college a possibility, no matter how small a town you may be from.

College Experience Now & Then

From the posters adorning dorm room walls to the way term papers are delivered, there has been a huge shift in the experiences of the average college student from 1978 to 1998 to present day. This fun and revealing infographic explores how times have changed on the college campus.

College Internships And Employment

While working their way through school, college students may realize that in addition to their academic success, their future employers will expect some work experience. Internships are a great way for students to gain valuable work experience in their field while maintaining their courses. Learn how to find and land your dream internship here.

Colleges That Are Great Community Citizens

Performing community service in college benefits not only the neighborhood, but many times, students themselves. Beyond the gratification of participating in projects that will better the community, getting involved in social or community service programs while in school can bolster a resume, offer new networking opportunities, and occasionally, even earn students college credit. What’s the difference between social service and community service on campus, and how can you get involved?

Getting Involved in Student Government

Participating in student government or student council can be great for boosting resumes, but it also offers much more. Learn about the different types of student governments and positions. Plus, discover how student government helps students gain skills and get involved in their schools.

Girls Starting Computer Science

Though computer technology has advanced rapidly in the past few decades, women still make up only a small fraction of the workforce in computing industries. But a movement to empower more girls to get involved in computer technology is underway. Learn how advocacy and educational groups are working to make computer tech more approachable and accessible for girls around the world, and how anyone–regardless of their computer knowledge–can encourage the girls in their community involved. This page shares information on getting girls of any age, from kindergarten through college, started in computer science, so their unique perspectives, ideas and creativity can continue to take our world to new technological heights.

Having a Pet in College

Having a pet in college can be emotionally and physically beneficial to students, but it’s also a big responsibility. Before purchasing a furry friend, students should understand the costs and commitments. Learn about the pros and cons of owning a pet in college and see if a pet is right for you.

The Housing Dilemma for College Sophomores

After getting used to dorm life, sophomores are sometimes ready to spread their wings and discover what other living situations exist. This guide highlights available housing options for second-year students and how to avoid common mistakes.

ESL/ELL Resources for Teachers, Parents and Students

Students who are English Language Learners (ELL) make up 9.3 percent of the U.S. public school population, according to 2013-14 estimates. At the same time, less than one percent of public school teachers are qualified ESL instructors. For students to get the education they need—both in English language and other academic subjects—teachers, parents and the students themselves must team up and take advantage of the resources available. This guide provides over 50 online ESL resources along with crucial information for ELL students, their families, and teachers.

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Find Schools with ROTC Programs

ROTC programs offer qualified students the opportunity to receive a scholarship to college. In return, they must participate in ROTC activities while in school, and upon graduation, they are expected to fulfill their obligation to serve in the armed services. Learn more about ROTC programs and scholarships, and search for schools and programs near you.

First-Year College Student Survival Guide

Students drop out of college after the first year for many reasons, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the proper support, life skills and tools in place, freshmen students can survive and even thrive their first year of college, which makes it more likely they will return for their sophomore year. Find tips, expert advice, and valuable resources to help first-year college students make it through their freshman year.

Getting a Job After College

Getting a job is usually the top priority after college, but, unfortunately, that may be easier said than done. Aside from having college experience in one’s favor, there’s still more to do to lay the groundwork for securing employment. This guide will provide insights, tips and expert advice on how to effectively land that first job after college.

Guide for Parents of Students with Disabilities

To better support students with disabilities, parents should familiarize themselves with their children’s rights and the laws created to protect them. In this guide, readers will find information on several laws that ensure their children aren’t discriminated against or deprived of the help they need to be successful academically.

Guide for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities face a number of unique challenges when it comes to higher education. Do their target schools have the right accommodations in place? Can they get discounts on hearing aids or other tools to help make their learning environment more welcoming? Lots of questions. This guide looks at the tools, technology and resources that facilitate academic success for more than a dozen separate disabilities.

Higher Education for Military Veterans

Each year, thousands of troops make the transition from active service to civilian life. These new veterans, as well as many others, have a number of resources available to help them earn a college degree. Veteran and education benefits expert Ron Kness discusses the GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program and more than dozen other resources for the aspiring veteran student.

Homeless Students and Education

Education should be accessible to everyone. However, homeless students face many academic barriers while pursuing their education, both at the K-12 and collegiate level. Fortunately, there are now many resources on- and off-campus available to help homeless students succeed in school. Explore these resources for students, families, and educators and hear from a formerly homeless graduate here.

How to Support Students with Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that impacts how a student responds to an environment behaviorally, socially and communicatively. No matter where a child falls on the spectrum, however, parents must work with schools to ensure students receive the education they deserve. This guide discusses the unique difficulties autistic students face and how educators and parents can support them.

Is JROTC Right for Me?

Most students ignore their school’s JROTC program because they don’t want to join the military. It’s a common misconception that could be a big mistake. JROTC teaches life skills that can help students be successful in the classroom and beyond, and there’s no obligation to join the military after completing the program. Another benefit – JROTC can help pay for college. Learn more about the program and how you can take full advantage of its many benefits – with and without a military obligation.

Low Income Student Guide

College students from low income families may face challenges and hurdles above and beyond those faced by their classmates. What challenges do these student face, and how are schools helping? What can these students do to ensure their success now and in the future? We discuss this with an expert and offer practical solutions for low income students.

Making Sense of the Athletic Recruiting Process

Many students have grown up playing a team sport they are passionate about and don’t want to stop playing their sport just because they’re graduating from high school. Out of the millions of athletes playing high school sports, however, less than 600,000 will go to play on in college, and only a fraction of those will end up on an NCAA Division I team. It’s important to remember, however, that there are hundreds of great colleges in other athletic divisions offering the opportunity to embark on a college athletic career. It’s important to keep an open mind and be well informed when making the move to college athletics. This guide offers student-athletes and their parents a comprehensive look at the different college athletic divisions and their requirements along with a step-by-step plan to make those college sports dreams a reality.

Most Diverse Community Colleges

Compared to four-year universities, community colleges serve more diverse students from underrepresented groups in terms of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and religion. And schools are catching on to how important it is to retain and support these diverse students. See our spotlight of the 50 U.S. colleges that are leading the charge on diversity and inclusion, and learn why more schools should follow.

Multicultural & Diversity Guide

College students receive a richer and more meaningful education when they gain exposure to students from other cultures and backgrounds by attending an inclusive school. Their horizons are widened, and they learn how to practice tolerance and interact with a variety of people. This guidebook discusses the many benefits of attending a school with a diverse student body and offers dozens of multicultural and diversity resources on campus and in the community.

Online Learning at Christian College

Christian colleges offer students a higher education centered on faith. But how do they treat online education? Do online students have the same religious benefits or requirements as their campus-based counterparts? We asked two experts with first-hand experience taking or teaching online courses at religious colleges and universities. Learn the basics and read the details that matter.

Pursuing a Degree in Public Service

‌Communities are always in need of experienced individuals dedicated to contributing to the common good. That’s where public service comes in. By pursuing a degree in a public service field, students can prepare to enter one of the many careers that public sector has to offer. This guide can help prospective students determine if public service is right for them and help them prepare and plan for their academic path

Real Life Role Models: 34 Women to Watch in Computer Tech

Computer careers are jobs of the future, but current stats show the industry is missing out on the unique perspectives and ideas of women. Though only a small percentage of girls graduate with Computer Science degrees today, there are many women who are ignoring the odds and conquering computing careers with ease. Learn about these leading ladies of computer science in this real-life role models profile of women to watch in the computer tech industry.

Resources & Scholarships for Single Moms & Dads in School

Being a single mom or dad takes energy, determination, and love. Single moms and dads who strive to earn a college degree deserve respect, but there are also many challenges associated with being a student and a single parent. Fortunately, there are many systems in place to help them reach their goals, including scholarships and other forms of financial support. Find out how single parents are getting their college degrees and learn about the organizations helping them get there.

Guide for Transgender College Students

Transgender college students can face many hurdles when it comes to accessing basic student services, safe spaces and typical college experiences. They also experience discrimination and harassment at alarming rates. This guide will help trans students know their rights, what to do if they face discrimination and how to find a school environment that acknowledges and supports their gender identity.

Studying with ADHD

College students who have been diagnosed with ADHD struggle to stay focused, motivated and organized, which can make studying and earning good grades a real challenge. But adjusting one’s study habits and routine can make a world of difference. This guide discusses how the different types of ADHD affect learning and retention, and also offers strategies on how to overcome the most common studying obstacles for students with ADHD.

Supporting & Protecting Undocumented Students

With DACA currently set to expire in March 2018 and Congress’ unsuccessful attempts to reach a bipartisan agreement on immigration, undocumented students are fearful and worried of what will happen next. This guide offers information and resources for anyone interested in supporting and protecting the undocumented community during this time of uncertainty.

Volunteering & Non-Profit Careers

Giving back while still in school can have many personal, educational and career benefits. Fortunately, there are many volunteer opportunities beginning in elementary school. Find out what benefits students gain from volunteering and how they can use these opportunities to start a career in the non-profit sector.

Women In Stem

It’s more than just girl-power, it’s creative power, brain power and the power of the unique perspectives that women bring to the table when they choose to pursue a STEM education. From kids to lifelong learners, this page empowers women of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels to give computers, sciences, engineering and tech fields a try. See which U.S. colleges are graduating the most women in STEM, and get expert advice and tips on steps to getting a STEM education as a girl.

Youth Caregiver Resources

When students are faced with juggling school and caregiving responsibilities at home, extra help may be needed to stay on top of it all. Learn more about the unique challenges these young caregivers face, and the resources, scholarships and expert advice that can help them succeed in school and taking care of their loved ones.