How to Boost College Admissions with Academic Rigour

How Academic Achievements Influence College Acceptance - The Red Pen

As you transition from secondary school to high school and prepare for college applications, the term “academic rigour” is one you’ll frequently encounter. Those aspiring to attend a reputed university abroad must understand how colleges evaluate your profile. While a high GPA (grade point average) is crucial, several universities also assess your academic rigour. But […]

UK Boarding School Admissions: Everything You Need to Know

Tips for preparing your child for UK boarding school interviews - The Red Pen

UK boarding schools are renowned for their history, academic excellence, and unique approach to education. There are approximately 500 boarding schools across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with 1,926 Indian overseas students enrolled in 2023, according to the Independent School Council. These UK schools are well-known for facilitating entry into selective universities like Ivy […]

Oberlin College: A Distinctive Fusion of Liberal Arts and Music

College student playing guitar, showcasing Oberlin's focus on music and arts education by The Red Pen

When you enter Oberlin College & Conservatory, the first thing to hit you is the enchanting sound of music permeating our campus. So, when I talk to students about our institution, many say, “I thought Oberlin was just a music school.” But the reality is far more intriguing.  The institution is a small private liberal […]

How to Ace the ‘Why College’ Supplemental Essay?

Young woman brainstorming ideas for her college application essay outdoors - The Red Pen

In addition to the Common Application essay, several universities in the US require college-specific essays, commonly referred to as supplemental essays. While prompts may vary, the most common supplemental essay topic is a version of why you want to study at a particular college and are known as the ‘Why College’ essay. Below, we help […]

How to Ace Third-Party Interviews for US College Admissions

Key strategies to succeed in third-party interviews for US college admissions - The Red Pen

The US remains a popular destination for international students. An Open Doors Report revealed that the US had 948,519 international students in 2022, reflecting a four percent increase compared to the preceding academic year. HolonIQ forecasts that the US will see 1.2m+ international students by 2023. Amid this influx, US universities face a new challenge […]

US Undergraduate Application Deadlines: All You Need to Know

Important dates for US undergraduate applications and tips to stay ahead - The Red Pen

When it comes to the final submission of your applications to US colleges, January 1 is the first thing that comes to mind. Most students rush to complete applications in the last week of the year because several deadlines fall on this day. After that, they wait for April 1, when colleges declare their results. […]

What Makes Macleans College an Excellent International School

Macleans College campus view showcasing its international learning environment - The Red Pen

If you want to give your child an international high school experience, consider New Zealand, a safe destination renowned for its emphasis on academic excellence. Ranked as one of the world’s leading English-speaking countries focussed on preparing students for the future, New Zealand is home to several top international schools.  Macleans College in Auckland is […]

7 Compelling Reasons to Send Your Child to Boarding School

Reasons Why Boarding Schools Are Great for Child Development - The Red Pen

Recently, there has been a distinct trend of Indian families opting to enrol their children in domestic and international boarding schools. This shift is particularly evident in British boarding institutions, where Indian students account for roughly 16 percent of the total population. Similarly, in Swiss boarding schools, Indian students constitute approximately two to five percent […]

Demonstrated Interest: Why it’s Important for Undergraduate Admissions

Young woman in a cozy sweater with a backpack, showing enthusiasm for college applications and demonstrated interest - The Red Pen

Many US colleges for international students have become highly selective. Harvard University’s acceptance rate fell from 10.5 percent to 3.19 percent within a decade. Besides the best and brightest, universities are looking for sincerity. Students must demonstrate interest to express their desire to join the college.  What is demonstrated interest?  Unlike your grades, test scores, […]

Extracurricular Activities: Everything you need to know for US College Application

How Extracurricular Activities Impact US College Applications - The Red Pen

Along with grades and test scores, extracurricular activities are critical to your university application. They enable colleges to see if you can go beyond the classroom and contribute to their campus life. According to Jorge Delgado, Associate Director of International Admissions at Brandeis University, “there are only so many hours in the day. So seeing […]