Testing the Waters: Is Standardised Testing Making a Comeback Post-Pandemic

Cheerful woman with test results signaling a return to standardised testing, The Red Pen

College admissions underwent a profound transformation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Standardised testing, once a cornerstone of the US admissions process, was relegated to the sidelines. The number of test-optional colleges in the US dramatically increased from 1,075 in March 2020 to 1,700 by the fall of the same year. However, a significant […]

Atypical Careers for Social Science Majors

International students discussing about Social Science Majors

Social sciences is a vast and dynamic field encompassing various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science. Many social science majors may envision traditional career paths such as counselling, research, or public policy. However, the versatility of a social sciences degree extends far beyond these conventional options. A liberal arts education is becoming increasingly […]

The Double Major Dilemma – Is It Worth the Extra Effort?

Balancing academic workload with a double major program - The Red Pen

When it comes to mapping out your undergraduate journey, the choice of a major is pivotal. While many students opt for a single major, potentially coupled with a minor, pursuing a double major is a compelling and increasingly popular alternative worth considering. The College Board’s statistics reveal that roughly 25 percent of college students pursue […]

Unveiling the 5 Best Non-Ivy League Colleges of 2024

Celebration of academic excellence among graduates from the best non-Ivy League institutions of 2024 - The Red Pen

The term “Ivy League” made its way into the American lexicon in the early 1930s when Caswell Adams, a sports journalist at the New York Herald Tribune, used it to characterise the formation of an emerging athletic conference. Today, it has become synonymous with prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, Yale University, University of Pennsylvania, […]

The Revival of Liberal Arts Education in India

Benefits of Liberal Arts Education for Indian Students - The Red Pen

The echoes of liberal education once resonated within the hallowed halls of ancient Indian universities like Taxila and Nalanda. But as the colonial education system took precedence, its fixed curriculum and the allure of vocational degrees captivated minds, and the vibrant spirit of liberal arts began to wane. Fast forward to current times. In a […]

Undergraduate Application Outcomes: What They Are and How to Respond?

Curious teen considering her options after receiving university admission decisions - The Red Pen

After the frenzy of putting together and sending applications to institutions on your university list, waiting for their responses can feel like an eternity. However, not every college admission story ends with acceptance or rejection. You may also face grey areas like waitlisting and deferrals. But what do these responses mean, and what should you […]

Co-Op Programmes for International Students: Everything You Should Know

How Co-Op Programmes Help International Students Gain Work Experience - The Red Pen

College graduates often face a classic conundrum: Employers want candidates with work experience. But how do you get experience without a job? Co-op programmes often provide the perfect solution.  A dynamic fusion of classroom learning and paid work experience, these programmes have become integral to modern education. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the essence […]

Unique Advantages of STEM-Designated Majors in the US

International STEM students conducting experiments in a laboratory.

“STEM”, the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, encompasses the core disciplines that drive innovation and progress today. Beyond imparting knowledge in these fields, pursuing a STEM degree offers a multifaceted educational experience that cultivates essential skills such as critical thinking, innovation, scientific literacy, and collaborative teamwork. These experiences enrich your intellectual capabilities and […]

Favouring US Universities: Is it a Growing Trend Amongst International Students in the UK?

International high school graduates holding Stanford pennant and American flag, The Red Pen

In recent years, a significant trend has emerged in the educational landscape: an increasing number of international students studying at day and boarding schools in the UK are opting to pursue higher education at US universities. This shift in preference highlights the exceptional opportunities and advantages in the US, enticing ambitious young minds across the […]

How to Choose the Right Undergraduate Admissions Consultant

Friendly study session with admissions consulting materials on the table - The Red Pen

Undergraduate admissions get more and more competitive with every passing year. Admission rates of several US colleges reveal that the Class of 2027 is one of the most competitive years. For instance, New York University’s admissions rate fell from 12.8 percent for the class of 2025 to 8 percent for the class of 2027. Similarly, […]