Entries by David Petersam

Which Law Schools Are Most Likely to Yank Merit‑Based Financial Aid?

Merit‑based financial aid is a major factor for many law school applicants, especially as tuition continues to rise. But not all scholarships are created equal—and at some law schools, merit aid can be reduced or even revoked if students fail to meet certain academic requirements. Understanding which schools are more likely to pull funding can […]

Reapplicant Strategies for PhD Programs: How to Strengthen Your Application the Second Time Around

Reapplying to PhD programs can feel daunting, but it’s far more common—and far more successful—than many applicants realize. Doctoral admissions are highly competitive, often admitting only a small percentage of qualified candidates. A rejection isn’t a verdict on your potential; it’s often a signal that your materials, research alignment, or experience need refinement. If you’re […]

Career Placement Differences and Similarities Between Full‑Time, Part‑Time, and Executive MBA Programs in 2026

Choosing the right MBA format is one of the most important decisions business school applicants make. While full‑time, part‑time, and executive MBA (EMBA) programs all deliver advanced business training and access to strong networks, their structures create meaningful differences in career placement outcomes. Understanding these distinctions can help you select the program that aligns with […]

How Important Is Your High School in College Admissions?

For college applicants, one of the most common questions is whether the high school they attend affects their chances of getting into competitive colleges. Admissions officers evaluate students in the context of their environment, which means your high school can influence how your application is reviewed—but not always in the way students expect. This blog […]

What the Potential Sale of the GRE and TOEFL Means for Graduate School Applicants

News that the GRE and TOEFL may be sold by ETS has sparked widespread discussion among graduate school applicants, universities, and admissions experts. These exams have long been central to graduate admissions—especially for international students—and any ownership change could reshape how they are administered, scored, or even required. While the sale is not yet finalized, […]

Career Placement Differences and Similarities Between 1‑Year and 2‑Year MBA Programs in 2026

Choosing between a 1‑year and 2‑year MBA is one of the biggest decisions business school applicants face. While both formats offer strong academic training and access to top employers, their structures create meaningful differences in career placement outcomes. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the program that aligns with your goals, timeline, and professional […]

The Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year Before Law School: A 2026 Applicant’s Guide

Taking a gap year before law school has become increasingly common among applicants, especially as admissions committees place greater value on maturity, professional experience, and clarity of purpose. But a gap year isn’t the right choice for everyone. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages can help you decide whether pausing your academic journey will strengthen your […]

Should You Submit Your ACT or SAT Score? A 2026 Guide for College Applicants

As the college admissions landscape continues to evolve, one question remains top of mind for many students: Should I submit my ACT or SAT score? With test-optional policies still in place at many schools—but not all—making the right decision can significantly impact your application. Here’s how to decide whether submitting your ACT or SAT score […]

The Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year Before Medical School: A 2026 Applicant’s Guide

Taking a gap year before medical school has become increasingly common as applicants look for ways to strengthen their applications, gain clinical experience, and prepare emotionally and financially for the demanding journey ahead. But a gap year isn’t the right choice for everyone. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages can help you decide whether stepping away […]

The Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year Before Graduate School: A 2026 Applicant’s Guide

Taking a gap year before graduate school has become increasingly common as applicants look for ways to strengthen their profiles, gain clarity about their goals, and build real‑world experience. But a gap year isn’t automatically the right choice for everyone. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages can help you decide whether stepping away from academics for […]

ACT and SAT Accommodations for College Applicants in 2026: What You Need to Know

Standardized testing remains a major component of the college admissions process, even as many schools continue test‑optional policies. For students with disabilities or health‑related needs, the ACT and SAT can pose unique challenges. Fortunately, both the College Board (SAT) and ACT, Inc. offer comprehensive accommodations to ensure equitable access for all test‑takers. If you’re planning […]

GMAT Accommodations for Business School Applicants in 2026: What You Need to Know

For MBA and business master’s applicants, the GMAT remains one of the most important components of a competitive application. But for test‑takers with disabilities or health‑related needs, the standard GMAT testing environment may not provide an equal opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. That’s why GMAC—the organization that administers the GMAT—offers a comprehensive accommodations process to […]