Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
American University
Q: Where have The Collegiate Path’s past mentees gained admission?
A: We have successfully guided mentees to top universities across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and India, including Ivy League and Russell Group universities. To view a comprehensive list of our undergraduate and graduate admissions, check out our Destinations page.
Q: How early should I start working with The Collegiate Path?
A: We recommend starting as early as middle school or early high school to maximize your/your child’s academic and extracurricular opportunities and to help you benefit from long-term planning and academic coaching. The last two years of high school are typically focused on the college application pathway: college selection, application strategy, essay development, and application submission and follow-up.
For graduate and MBA applicants, commencing the process at least four months in advance of any application deadline ensures ample time to build a strong profile and meet other application requirements. To evaluate your candidacy and determine the optimal application timeline, Contact Us.
Q: Do you help with financial aid and scholarships?
A: Our team provides personalized guidance on financial aid and scholarships by helping our mentees identify funding opportunities, understand application requirements, craft strong scholarship essays, and network with professors. We assist our mentees in navigating the process to maximize any available resources.
Q: Do you guide your mentees in choosing their major or course of study?
A: Our mentors provide personalized guidance to assist our mentees in selecting a major by evaluating their academic strengths, interests, and career goals. They work with mentees to explore potential career paths and recommend relevant coursework and extracurricular activities to help them make informed decisions about their intended course of study.
Q: Do you assist with extracurricular and summer program planning and applications?
A: Our team provides guidance on selecting and applying for extracurricular activities and summer programs that align with our mentees’ academic, personal, and career interests. We assist in identifying opportunities that add resume depth, develop key skills, and strengthen college readiness.
Q: What if I have a low GPA or test scores? Can I still get into a good college?
A: A low GPA or test scores can prove to be a challenge for competitive college admissions. However, many colleges adopt a holistic approach in the admissions process—strong extracurricular activities, compelling essays, recommendation letters, and a well-crafted application can help showcase your strengths to colleges, despite low scores.
Q: How do you support your mentees for their academic success?
A: We support our mentees in achieving academic success through our Writing and Study Skills Center, providing support to improve their writing, learn better using specific study techniques, and manage their precious, limited time effectively. The Center focuses on helping mentees improve their high school performance, earn higher grades, and develop essential skills for college readiness. Please Contact Us for more information.
Q: How do I get started with The Collegiate Path?
A: Every new mentee relationship begins with an Exploration Package (Grades 7-9) or an Assessment Package (Grades 10 onward). If you wish to schedule one, Contact Us.
Q: Do you offer guidance on standardized testing (SAT, ACT, APs, GRE, GMAT)?
A: While we do not provide test preparation support ourselves, we have relationships in place with trusted providers, ensuring a coordinated approach toward application readiness. We do advise on testing strategies for the SAT, ACT, APs, GRE, and GMAT, helping mentees determine the best exam(s) for their goals, plan preparation timelines, and understand score requirements for their target institutions and/or programs.
Q: I am planning to take a gap year after Grade 12. Will it affect my college candidacy?
A: Opting for a gap year after Grade 12 will not negatively impact your college candidacy; as long as you use your time effectively, it can boost your college readiness and future success. We help our mentees develop a well-structured plan that includes meaningful experiences—such as internships, research, volunteering, travel, or skill development—along with time for reflection, which together can strengthen college applications.
The Collegiate Path 