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The Ivy League is made up of eight elite private colleges, all of which are based in the Northeast. Being accepted to an Ivy League college is something some students work toward all their lives — but there’s more to gaining admission to these schools than good grades and a long list of extracurriculars.

With admission rates now hovering in the 4%-5% range, there’s a heightened sense of competition among top students in high schools across the country and around the world.

Read on to learn more about Ivy League colleges, including which schools are considered “Ivies,” the benefits of going to an Ivy League college, how much they cost, and ways to make your application stand out.

What Are the Different Ivy League Schools?

Named for their ivy-covered campuses, the eight private colleges that make up the Ivy League have many things in common. However, each school has its own unique reputation and characteristics that attract different kinds of students. Here’s a closer look at these top-ranked schools.

Brown University

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is known for its humanities programs as well as its Warren Alpert Medical School. Its open curriculum allows for a relatively free-form educational model where students are encouraged to take classes they like without having to accumulate certain requirements. Brown also gives students the option of taking as many classes as they want on the basis of pass-fail.

Columbia University

Located in New York City, Columbia is one of the most diverse Ivy League schools with 59% of undergraduates identifying as minorities. It also has one of the highest percentages of international students at any Ivy League, with up to 21% of its student body coming from foreign countries. This cosmopolitan college is host to renowned business, journalism, and law schools, and requires students to adhere to its core curriculum, which focuses largely on liberal arts.

Cornell University

Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell is one of the largest Ivy League universities, occupying a sprawling campus in this scenic upstate town. Known for its agriculture and engineering schools, Cornell also has strong Greek life and a wide range of athletic programs.

Dartmouth College

Located in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth is the most rural of the Ivies, drawing a student body interested in the outdoors and Greek life — around 60% of students participate in sororities or fraternities. Its somewhat smaller student body allows for more one-on-one attention in classes and a strong sense of community on campus.

Harvard University

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard encourages students to take a wide range of courses through their general education requirements, which allows students to broaden their interests and take advantage of intellectual curiosities. The school has 12 residential houses that seek to foster a sense of community in an otherwise imposing setting.

The University of Pennsylvania

Located in Philadelphia, Penn is known for its four distinct undergraduate colleges, including the Wharton School of Business and the College of Arts and Science. Students have the option of taking part in Greek life, and are also encouraged to explore opportunities in the greater Philadelphia area, from internships to the wide array of cultural events available.

Princeton University

Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University offers either a liberal arts or engineering and applied science degree for undergraduate students, with both programs including general education requirements. Princeton is known for its international affairs and engineering programs, as well as their storied eating clubs, which serve as coed dining halls and social centers for students, and are comparable to nonresidential fraternities or sororities.

Yale University

Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University is known for its creative writing and arts programs, as well as a residential college program and an array of secret societies. It’s also home to a renowned graduate drama program and law school.

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

Benefits of Attending an Ivy League School

For those who get that coveted acceptance letter, the benefits can be worth the years of hard work it took to get in. From growing your network to gaining access to world-renowned resources and professors at the top of their field, attending an Ivy League school can set students on an accelerated path to intellectual and professional success.

Having an Ivy League school on your resume may open countless doors when it comes to applying for jobs, fellowships, or graduate programs and may provide a leg up when it comes to advancing your career.

The amount of funding available at Ivy League schools can also be a major draw. All Ivy League schools have need-blind admissions policies, meaning that admissions officers will not look at a student’s financial need when considering their application. They also have a promise to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need based on household income.

Princeton recently announced it was waiving tuition for low-income students, a policy Harvard has in place, too, which takes things even further. Ivy League schools also have incredible funding opportunities for research and travel for students, allowing them to broaden their interests and perspectives.

Recommended: Paying for College With No Money in Your Savings

The Cost of an Ivy League School and Options for Paying for Tuition

All of the Ivy League schools are private universities, which usually implies a hefty price for tuition. The average undergraduate tuition for an Ivy League school for the 2024-25 school year was $64,806, plus room and board. But due to the universities’ impressive, multi-billion-dollar endowments, these schools are able to offer generous financial aid packages to prospective students.

While Ivy League schools do not offer merit-based or athletic scholarships, there are generally a wide variety of need-based scholarships awarded to students depending on their household income.

A student’s household income is equal to the combined gross income of all people occupying the household unit who are 15 years of age or older. Among Brown’s class of 2027, for example, students with household incomes below $60,000 received an average of $87,781 in annual financial assistance — nearly full rides, including room and board. For families making between $60,000 and $100,000, students received an average of $75,840 in annual need-based aid.

In addition to aid offered by Ivy League schools directly, students or their parents may choose private student loans to help ease the burden of paying college tuition and expenses.

Students will generally want to exhaust all federal student aid options (which include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans) before considering private student loans. But if there is still a gap between federal student aid and the remaining cost of attendance, a private loan may be an option for some students.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

GPA Requirements for Ivy League Schools

An impressive grade point average (GPA) is only one aspect of a student’s college application. However, to even be considered for admission to an Ivy League school, students may want to see if their own GPA falls within the average for admitted students. Among the Ivies that release statistics on accepted students’ GPAs, the average weighted GPA is about 4.0 to 4.25, meaning mostly As.

How to Make an Application More Competitive

In addition to a high GPA and impressive SAT and/or ACT scores, prospective students often need to prove themselves in other ways to gain admission to an Ivy League school.

Excelling in advanced courses, like honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes throughout high school may improve students’ chances of admissions, especially if students show a particular area of interest, like science or humanities.

While in the past, college admissions counselors would advise students to be “well-rounded” candidates, it’s now advisable to develop and demonstrate a passion for a particular subject area, which helps Ivies to build a more well-rounded student body.

Students can show their interests beyond academics by taking part in extracurricular activities. By engaging in activities early in high school and growing that interest over time, students show their commitment and enthusiasm for a particular area.

Strong interviews and letters of recommendation can also improve a student’s application, along with a strong personal essay. Ivy League admissions teams look for essays that highlight a student’s best qualities, perhaps expressed through a personal anecdote or description of a unique passion that displays a candidate’s distinctive character.

Hitting the “Submit” Button

Following the tips above may help improve a student’s Ivy League application, helping to gain admission to one or more of the most prestigious universities in the world. Of course, there are many schools that have the same academic rigor of an Ivy League, and it’s generally advisable to sprinkle in one or two “safety” schools for good measure.

But once a student has decided they want to apply to an Ivy League school, determined which is the right one for them, applied for financial aid, and completed their applications, it’s time to hit submit!

The Takeaway

If you’re hoping to attend an Ivy League college, you’ll want to consider each school’s admission rate, along with its particular academic program and financial aid statistics, to determine which is the right school to apply to.

However, it can be helpful to apply to a range of schools, both in terms of admission standards and tuition costs. This will give you options in case a school’s financial aid package isn’t as generous as you hoped.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Which is the easiest Ivy League to get into?

While the Ivy League schools aren’t considered easy to get into, Cornell typically has the highest acceptance rate.

Why isn’t Stanford an Ivy?

Stanford is not considered an Ivy League school mainly because the Ivy League refers to a specific athletic conference composed of eight private universities in the Northeast, and Stanford is located on the West Coast.

What’s the #1 hardest school to get into?

The #1 hardest school to be admitted to is usually considered to be Harvard University. Harvard typically has an extremely low acceptance rate of 3%-5%.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

The summer before college can be a transformative time before you head off for your independent life as a student. You can reflect, work, get organized, and spend quality time with the people you love at the places you love one last time before school is in session.

At the same time, there are a number of tasks you’ll need to complete to make sure your transition to school goes as smoothly as possible. Here’s a simple checklist that can help ensure you make the most of your last summer before college.

Getting Organized

Now is the time to clear out the old so you can bring in the new. The bedroom is a good place to start.

Clear out your closet: Use the summer to clean out your closet and dresser and get rid of any clothing you may no longer need or want for college. Start by pulling every single item out and making a giant pile on the floor, separating the clothing into piles to keep, toss, and donate. Donating gently used items to a local charity or second-hand shop will help them find a second life. Or you might try to sell your stuff and raise some cash.

Toss old academic work: Go through notebooks, binders, and bookbags, using the same sorting method as with clothing. Cleaning out your computer and deleting any files you no longer need — perhaps moving some to cloud storage — can allow you to enter college with a clean desktop and plenty of space on your hard drive.

Start packing: To make the moving process a little smoother, try organizing your items and packing slowly over the summer instead of cramming it all into one day. Creating boxes labeled as bedding, kitchen, bathroom, academic, and miscellaneous — maybe limiting the size of that particular box, though — then adding items as you’re organizing will make moving easier when the time comes.

Cleaning up Your Social Media

Just like cleaning out your closet, it’s probably time to think about cleaning up your social media presence, too. You may have joined Facebook groups or liked pages that no longer reflect your interests or what you believe in.

On Twitter and Instagram, it may be a good idea to look back at your content to make sure what you’re sharing is appropriate for future employers to see. If not, you might want to consider deleting it.

Finally, think about your social media handles and your email address. If possible, it might be a good idea to use your full name or a combination of first initial and last name — something clean and simple. Potential employers will likely look at this information before hiring for summer internships or future jobs, so presenting yourself as a professional might pay off in the long run.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

Spending Quality Time With Your Family

Even though your parents may have sometimes embarrassed you through your high school years and your siblings may have annoyed you since you became siblings, you’ll probably still miss them when you head off to college. Use this time to make memories with your family so you have something fond to look back on if you’re ever homesick.

Over the summer, try creating family date nights. Play board games, cook together, go to your favorite restaurants, the movies, whatever makes you all happy. As a bonus, you’ll get to visit all your favorite hometown spots along the way, too.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing For College

Connecting With Your New Roommate

If you’re living in a dorm in the fall, you likely already know who your roommate will be. You may want to use the few weeks before school begins to prepare for the college experience ahead by connecting with them, via phone, text/email, Facetime, or, if possible, in-person.

Consider making a list of dorm room items that you can share, and try making a list of ground rules before you even move in. This could help alleviate any issues before they ever begin.

Recommended: A Guide to Making Friends in College

Preparing Your Dorm Essentials

After chatting with your roommate and figuring out what you both need, it’s time to make a full list of dorm essentials. This essentials list should include bedding, toiletries that fit into a basket to carry to and from shared bathrooms, a pair of slippers to use in common areas (including shower areas), and office supplies like pens, paper, notebooks, labels, rubber bands, scissors, and sticky notes.

You’ll now be responsible for doing your own laundry, so make sure to add on a laundry basket and detergent. The list can also include decorations such as desk lamps, a bulletin board, and any fun decor that fits your style.

Becoming Familiar With Your College Town

You can get familiar with your new town even before you set foot in it by checking out local publications, including local news sites and your school’s newspaper. You might want to make a list of restaurants you want to try and local attractions you’d like to see.

You might also consider sharing the list with your new roommate so you can explore the town together.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Registering for Classes

It could be prudent to check out class offerings before registration even opens. Familiarize yourself with the classes offered (such as lower vs. upper division courses) in your degree program, which ones are available to freshmen, and which electives you’d like to take. Make a list and have it handy for registration day.

Pro tip: Sign up for classes as soon as registration is open because popular classes may fill up fast.

Checking Out Your Professors Online

Once you’ve got your classes lined up, it’s time to check out your future professors. Doing a bit of online research on the people who will be teaching you could help identify any potential future mentors.

Getting to know professors can make asking for recommendations for internships and jobs easier. If they don’t know you well, it might be difficult for them to recommend you.

Getting Your Finances in Order

It’s time for the most adult step of all. During the summer before college, it’s probably time to get your finances in order. If you don’t already have a checking account, it’s a good idea to open one, ideally at a bank that you can access easily while at school.

Now is also a good time to explore — and discuss with your family — how you will finance all four years of your college education. You may have filled out the FAFSA and explored your options for funding your expenses.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Unlike federal student loans, private student loans will require a credit check. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

The summer before college starts can be a good time to get organized, spend time with friends and family, connect with your roommate(s), explore your new campus, register for classes, and make sure you’re ready to handle the cost of your education.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Should I work the summer before college?

It can be a smart move to work the summer before college, even if you have tuition covered for the upcoming terms. By working, you can save money for incidental expenses or begin an emergency fund.

What is the summer before freshman year good for?

The summer before your freshman year of college is a good time to get acclimated to the school year ahead. It can be wise to consider the supplies you’ll need for your living space and classes; spend time with family and hometown friends, and learn how your new campus operates and what extracurricular activities are available. The summer is also a good time to earn some extra money to put toward your education.

How to be productive the summer before college?

There are a variety of ways to be productive the summer before college. You might get a job, internship, or volunteer position. Or you could organize your belongings as you pack, selling or donating what you don’t need. Another idea is to prepare for your classes, if you know what they are, by securing books and looking at the course syllabus. You could also reach out and begin forging a relationship with your roommate(s).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Attending community college can often be a much more affordable choice than going to a four-year public or private university. Students and their parents can save money both on tuition as well as travel and living expenses, especially if the student lives at home. This can translate into taking out smaller student loans and paying them off sooner after graduation.

Going to a community college also comes with other benefits. Here’s a closer look at why a college-bound student might consider choosing a community college.

What Is a Community College?

A community college, also known as a junior college or two-year college, provides a two-year course of study that either ends with an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree. Alternatively, it can provide the equivalent to the freshman and sophomore years of a four-year college, since credits can typically be transferred and used toward a bachelor’s degree.

Community colleges are located throughout the U.S. and come in varying sizes. You can find large community colleges with multiple campuses in urban and suburban areas, as well as small community colleges in rural settings.

Many community colleges also have technical and vocational programs with close links to local high schools, community groups, and employers.

Benefits of Attending a Community College

Here’s a look at some of the advantages of going to a community college vs. a four-year college or university.

A Smoother Transition

The transition from high school to college can be challenging, but attending a community college can be easier for some people.

Community college classes are generally smaller and less intimidating. If you prefer smaller class sizes and not having to walk across a large campus daily with thousands (or tens of thousands) of students, then a community college may feel less overwhelming.

Transferring to a four-year college could also be easier for students who have taken classes from a community college.

If you are thinking about using community college as a stepping stone to a four-year school, you may want to find out if the school has a transfer relationship with any four-year colleges, and what GPA and grades are needed to successfully transfer.

If the school doesn’t have a relationship with a college you’re considering, you’ll want to make sure that the credits earned will count at that college.

Flexibility

One reason that many students opt for community college is the flexibility. You can typically take as many classes as you want, and it can vary from semester to semester.

Community colleges also give students the option to enroll when they want, unlike four-year universities, where you typically need to enroll by early fall.

Rolling admissions give students more flexibility in planning their studies, especially if they are working part time or need to save money to pay for tuition and books. The community college website will include key deadlines and requirements, such as transcripts from high school or another college, and any prerequisite classes.

The schedules at community colleges also tend to be more flexible, often allowing a student to work during the day and take classes in the evening.

A Possible Bachelor’s Degree

A growing number of states are allowing some community colleges to offer bachelor’s degree programs. This means students do not always have to transfer to another college after taking classes the first two years. While many of the degrees are focused on a particular industry or skill, community colleges are adding more degree options.

Obtaining a four-year degree at a community college could save a student the time of researching other universities and colleges, transferring credits, having to move, and potentially accruing more student loan debt.

Community colleges are updating the type of degrees offered to meet the needs of the workforce and often include ones in information management, nonprofit management, and health care.

Recommended: A Guide to Choosing the Right College Major

Price Tag

Community college tuition is typically significantly lower than tuition at public and private universities. Some states even offer free community college.

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of tuition at an in-district community college is $3,598 per year. For out-of-state students, the average community college tuition is $8,622.

For comparison, yearly tuition at a public university averages $11,260 (for in-state students) and $29,150 (for out-of-state students). The average student at a private college or university spends a total of $41,540 on tuition and fees.

Even if you don’t live at home while attending community college, you may be able to find housing that is less costly than living in a dorm or an off-campus apartment in a college town. Plus, taking classes at a nearby community college gives you the flexibility to work part time and earn some income you can use to cover your college expenses.


💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate.

Financing a Community College Education

You can cover the cost of community college (and potentially two additional years at a traditional college after that) using a combination of savings, help from family, financial aid, and loans.

A great first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will let you know if you are eligible for financial aid, which includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans (which may be subsidized or unsubsidized).

You can also help pay for your community college tuition by working at a part- or full-time job while taking classes in the evenings.

If you still have gaps in funding, you may want to look into getting a private student loan. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and Public Service Loan forgiveness — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Community college can be an affordable, flexible, and convenient way to pursue higher education. The average cost is less than $4,000 a year for in-district tuition, which can make it a valuable choice for many students. However, students may still need help making ends meet financially, which is where federal and/or private student loans can help.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What are the pros of going to community college?

Community colleges can provide affordable, flexible educational options, often with smaller class sizes. Credits may be transferable should a student choose to pursue a degree at a four-year institution.

Is it better to go to a university or a community college?

Finding the right fit will depend on a student’s needs. In general, a four-year college or university will provide deeper training and greater career readiness than a community college. However, community colleges can be flexible and affordable ways to pursue a degree after high school.

What are the cons of a community college?

Possible cons of going to a community college include more limited paths of study, less preparation for careers, and less sense of community and bonding with classmates and professors as you work toward graduation.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Remote internships have become a staple in today’s professional world, offering students the chance to gain work experience from anywhere. Whether you’re in a different city, balancing classes, or simply prefer the flexibility of working from home, virtual internships can open doors to opportunities that once required relocation.

The question is, are virtual internships valuable? The answer is yes, especially if you know how to make the most of them. From finding the right opportunity to building your professional network, there are key steps you can take to ensure your experience is both productive and rewarding. Here’s what you need to know to succeed in a remote college internship.

Finding Remote Internships

Colleges usually have information about internships, both those that are available during the school year and summer internships. It’s a good idea to check in with your school’s career center and see what intel it has on remote internships.

You might also get in touch with your school’s alumni organization, ask around in your personal networks, and see if your school will be hosting any job fairs during the upcoming semester.

You might also check out the Virtual Student Federal Service, which matches students with projects from a variety of federal agencies. This program is virtual, students can be in charge of their timetable, and the commitment is 10 hours a week. The application period opens in October for the following summer.

💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders help you pay down your student loans sooner with reward points you earn along the way

Creating a Home Office to Support Success

Working from home is a new experience for some people, so creating an environment that helps to maintain focus and health is key to success.

As with any office building, there are a few things that can be done to make the space healthier.

If you’ll be spending most of the day in your home office, you may want to consider opening the windows, keeping the space clean, and investing in an air purifier.

A key piece of staying productive and reducing stress is having an organized space. When working from home, it helps to have a desk free of clutter. Research has shown that maintaining an organized space helps with cognition, emotional health, and behavior. All of these factors contribute to how people perform at work.

Succeeding at an internship as well as at school can be challenging. Setting boundaries for your work may help with prioritizing and prevent you from losing valuable study time.
Having set work hours can make it easier to turn “off” work mode and transition into study or relaxation mode.

Recommended: 3 Summer Jobs Ideas for College Students

Paying Attention to Health

It’s important to be aware of the impact that working from home can have on your physical health. Long hours on a computer, both writing papers and doing work for your internship, can take a toll.

To prevent eye strain, try the 20-20-20 rule. It goes like this: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

In addition to preventing eye strain, it’s a good idea to pay attention to your posture throughout the day. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends working in a neutral position that won’t strain joints and tendons, and changing positions, stretching, and walking throughout the day, as well as performing some tasks while standing.

Physical health isn’t the only kind that can be affected by spending long periods of time at home.
Some people have reported that working from home caused them to feel more stress, whereas others said it reduced stress. Since this varies, you’ll want to pay attention to your mental well-being during a remote internship.

To take care of your mental health, be sure to implement routines like walking, meditating, and calling friends.

Finding Value in Virtual Networking

Video calls are a great way to connect and network with others virtually.

Emails and phone calls are still important pieces of remote work, but with video calls, it’s easier to connect with remote coworkers and better understand them during meetings. Nonverbal communication skills are essential to good communication.

This means that networking virtually is possible. Networking during an internship is important because internships have the potential to turn into full-time positions. Asking colleagues to get together for a video chat to ask questions or better understand their position could improve the chance of being offered a job at the end of the internship.

Networking virtually takes planning and intentional communication, because coworkers can’t bond over lunch or chat at the water cooler. Setting up a virtual chat to get to know colleagues better can demonstrate the ability to take initiative and how seriously you are taking the position.

Recommended: A Guide to Post Grad Internships

Starting Off on the Right Foot

A virtual internship is going to work a bit differently from an in-person internship, which means students should be ready to ask a lot of questions.

Before beginning the internship, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer via email or video chat. Asking questions can help you develop important leadership skills, so it’s a good habit to develop during an internship.

Starting an internship off right also involves setting up regular check-ins with a manager. They may do this already, but if not, it’s OK to ask for it to be implemented. Receiving regular feedback can improve performance, and therefore help you get the most out of your internship.

Juggling studies and a remote internship may be intense, so part of being prepared is getting a calendar to track important dates and internship tasks. Blocking off time in a calendar to focus on the internship tasks could prevent moments of burnout and feeling overwhelmed.

Brushing Up On the Tech

Before beginning a virtual internship, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the common platforms that are used in remote work for communication, task management, file sharing, and online calendars.

Each workplace is going to use different programs; some may prefer Asana versus Trello when it comes to task management, and some may prefer Slack versus Microsoft Teams for communication within the team.

There are tons of programs out there to make virtual work easier. Interns won’t be able to learn them all, but brushing up on what’s popular may ease anxiety and increase feelings of preparedness.

Recommended: Am I Eligible for Work-Study?

Documenting Your Success

It can be really easy to forget all that you’ve accomplished during an internship. Most internships last a whole semester (or summer), and if you aren’t tracking what their tasks and accomplishments are, you may forget them.

This is important information to keep for both yourself and your manager. Keeping things documented can help you easily add your accomplishments and new skills to your resume.

It will also make it easier for managers to write a letter of recommendation at the end of the internship. With luck, the manager will remember the best of your accomplishments, but if they’re managing a large team it could be difficult for them to write a letter without reference points.

A letter of recommendation can help you once you enter the workforce and begin applying for jobs.

💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

The Takeaway

Remote internships can be just as valuable as traditional, in-person experiences, potentially even more so. They can broaden your professional network across locations, give you flexibility in managing your schedule, and help you build essential digital communication skills. Success in a virtual setting comes down to preparing: finding the right opportunity, setting up a productive workspace, staying connected with colleagues, and keeping track of your achievements.

While many college internships are paid, some are not. Either way, you’ll likely still need financial support to cover the cost of college. Your funding options include federal aid (including grants, scholarships, and subsidized student loans), savings, help from parents or others, and private student loans.

It’s generally recommended that students exhaust all options of federal aid (including federal loans) before moving on to private loans. Federal loans come with benefits that students may not find elsewhere, such as income-based student loan repayment plans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

How does a remote internship work?

A remote internship operates entirely online. You work from home or any location, communicating with your team through email, video calls, and project management tools. Tasks and deadlines are set, and you collaborate virtually. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions ensure you stay on track and receive guidance.

Is a remote internship worth it?

Absolutely. Remote internships offer flexibility, allowing you to gain valuable experience and skills without geographical constraints. They provide exposure to diverse industries and work cultures, and you can build a professional network. The experience can be just as enriching as an in-person internship and can significantly enhance your resume.

How can you succeed in a remote internship?

To excel in a remote internship, it’s important to stay organized and proactive. Be sure to set a routine, communicate clearly and frequently with your team, and use technology effectively. Take the initiative to ask questions and seek feedback, and stay engaged by participating in virtual meetings and networking events. Demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic will help you stand out and make the most of the opportunity.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

When it comes to college admissions, two standardized tests stand out: the ACT and the SAT. Both are designed to assess a student’s readiness for higher education, but they have distinct differences in format, content, and scoring.

Keep reading to learn more about how these tests compare, which one you should take, and how colleges feel about these two exams.

Purpose, Structure, and Cost

The SAT and ACT are two exams that serve the same purpose. Colleges utilize both exams to determine admission and award merit-based scholarships. Both tests are similar in length and structure, with the SAT taking 2 hours and 14 minutes, and the ACT taking 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay), and 3 hours, 40 minutes (with essay) to complete.

For the 2025-26 school year, it costs $68 to register for the SAT. There are additional charges if you change test centers ($34) or you register late ($38). Your first four score reports are free if you order them within nine days after the test date. After that, any additional reports you want to send to multiple colleges cost $15 each.

The cost to register for the ACT for the 2025-26 school year is $65 with no writing ($25) or science ($4). There are additional charges if you change test centers ($44) or you register late ($38). Your registration fee covers reports for you, your high school, and up to four colleges (if you provide the codes when you register). Additional score reports are $19.

💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

The Subject Matter

These two exams cover similar subject matter and include an optional essay portion, although there are some key differences worth noting when it comes to preparing to take these exams. The main difference between the ACT and SAT subject matter is that the ACT has a science section, whereas the SAT does not.

ACT Subject Matter

The ACT includes four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. The English section focuses on grammar, usage, and rhetorical skills, while the Math section covers a broader range of topics, including trigonometry and advanced algebra. The Reading section tests comprehension and analysis of passages, and the Science section evaluates a student’s ability to interpret, analyze, and evaluate scientific information and data.

SAT Subject Matter

The SAT is structured into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math, with an optional Essay section. The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section is divided into Reading and Writing & Language tests, focusing on critical reading, vocabulary, and writing skills. The Math section is split into two parts: one that allows the use of a calculator and one that does not, and it emphasizes problem-solving and data analysis, with a greater focus on algebra and less on advanced math topics like trigonometry.

How Each Exam Is Scored

Both the SAT and ACT have unique scoring systems. Here’s a bit of information on each.

How the SAT Is Scored

The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600. Breaking down the scoring process a bit further, the SAT has not just a “total score,” but “section scores.” Each of the main sections, reading/writing and math, may be scored up to 800 points. These scores are then combined for the total.

Last but not least, students will receive subscores, evaluating their performance of certain or subject areas. These scores are included as a part of the total score, but this breakdown can be insightful for students looking to retake the test and improve their skill set.

Recommended: How to Help Your Child with SAT Practice

How the ACT Is Scored

The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The ACT scoring system begins by taking into account how many questions a student answers correctly. The “raw scores,” which represent the number of correct answers on each test, are then converted to “scale scores.” Each subject section — English, Math, Reading, and Science—receives a scale score.

The “composite score,” which ranges from 1 to 36, is an average of each subject test, rounded to the nearest whole number. The scoring process is completed after identifying the percentage of correctly answered questions.

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

Do Colleges Prefer the ACT or SAT?

Both the ACT and SAT are widely accepted by U.S. colleges and schools generally don’t have a preference for one over the other. Many people believe that the SAT is more popular, especially with elite colleges, but that is a higher education urban legend.

There may, however, be some regional preferences between ACT vs SAT. College Raptor analyzed the numbers of students who applied to colleges with ACT or SAT scores (numbers that colleges and universities report to the government) and found that, while many states were split down the middle, a few lean more in one direction towards ACT or SAT. For example, Wisconsin leans heavily towards an ACT preference — there, 95.27% of applicants submitted ACT scores.

Knowing Which Test to Take

While some students opt to take both the SAT or ACT, some choose just one in order to focus on preparing for the test they believe they are more likely to score higher on. Neither test is generally easier than the other, but some students may find their different structures suit their needs better.

The SAT focuses more on critical reading, writing, and problem-solving, with a greater emphasis on algebra and data analysis in its Math section. The ACT, on the other hand, includes a Science section and covers a broader range of math topics, including trigonometry. If you excel in science and math, the ACT might be a better fit. If you are strong in reading and writing, the SAT could be more advantageous.

Taking a full-length practice test of each exam can give you a better idea of which test you’ll score higher on. Once you’ve determined which is a better fit, you can spend their time and resources preparing for just one test instead of two. If you feel comfortable preparing for and taking both exams, doing so can be beneficial as you will have two scores to choose between to send to colleges.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2026). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

Paying for College

The options don’t stop after you complete the test (or tests) of your choice. Once you use your solid scores to get into the college of your dreams, you and your family may be faced with some other big decisions, especially when it comes to paying for college.

Luckily, there are options — including grants, scholarships, and federal student loans — that can help offset the out-of-pocket costs. If you’ve exhausted those avenues and still have a funding gap, you may want to explore private student loans and or parent loans.

Private student loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Unlike federal loans, applying for a private loan requires a credit check. Students who have solid financials (or a cosigner who does) typically qualify for the best rates and terms. Just keep in mind that private loans don’t come with the same protections, like government-sponsored forgiveness programs, that you get with federal loans.

The Takeaway

In the ongoing debate between the ACT and SAT, it’s clear that most colleges do not have a strong preference for one over the other. Both tests are designed to measure college readiness and are widely accepted. Ultimately, the choice should be based on which test aligns better with your strengths and testing style.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Do most colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?

Most colleges do not have a strong preference for one test over the other. They accept both and consider them equally in the admissions process.

How can students decide which test to take?

Students should consider their strengths and testing style. If you excel in science and advanced math, the ACT might be a better fit. If you are strong in reading and writing, the SAT might suit you more. Taking practice tests for both can also help determine which one you perform better on.

What are the main differences between the ACT and SAT?

The ACT includes a science section and covers more advanced math topics, while the SAT focuses more on critical reading and writing. The ACT is generally more straightforward, while the SAT can be more complex and requires strong reasoning skills.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.