HIGH SCHOOL FELLOWS FAQ

What is “virtual college advising”?

Virtual college advising means you’ll work one-on-one with a well-trained college advisor using the technology you use every day including text, Google Hangouts, Skype, email and phone. Because your advisor is “virtual,” you don’t need to wait to get an in-person appointment — you can connect with an advisor whenever you need to, from wherever you are.

Who are the Matriculate advisors?

Matriculate advisors are a lot like you! They are current college students who come from all backgrounds and from all across the country. All of our advisors are at target schools including Berkeley, Columbia/Barnard, Notre Dame, Princeton, Williams, and Yale. They not only have first-hand experience applying to and getting into college, but also receive extensive training so that they can give you accurate information about getting into the college that’s the best fit for you.

What can Matriculate Advising Fellows help you with?

Our advisors are trained to support you with all aspects of the college and financial aid application process.
They can help you narrow down your college list and introduce you to great colleges you may not have considered. Your advisor can help you as you write your personal statement, search for scholarships, or apply for financial aid, and even talk with you about what it’s like to leave home and live in a dorm. Matriculate Advising Fellows are prepared to answer any college application question that is important to you.

How much does remote advising cost?

Nothing, it’s free. Remote advising is provided at no cost for eligible students.

I have a great counselor in my school/ community. Can I work with an Advising Fellow too?

Sure – you can never have too much good advice! Advising Fellows can provide you with extra one-on-one support to supplement other resources in your school and community. Advising Fellows can also help you prepare for meetings with your school counselor, so you know just the right questions to ask to make the most of that time.

I already know where I want to go to college. Can Advising Fellows help me?

Definitely. Picking a college is just one of the steps on the path toward going to college. Advising Fellows can help you with your college essay, the Common App and financial aid and scholarship applications.
Advising Fellows can also introduce you to other, similar colleges you may want to check out.

How often can I meet with an Advising Fellow?

Most students like meeting with an Advising Fellow once a week.

What do you mean by “best fit and match” college?

When we say “best fit and match” college, we’re talking about a college that meets your academic, financial and personal needs. We believe that when you go to the college that’s the best match and fit, you’ll have a better chance of being successful and graduating. Advising Fellows can help you identify the qualities that are most important to you and the colleges that match!

Is this a scholarship opportunity?

Nope. There are no scholarship dollars attached to virtual advising, but Advising Fellows can help you find and apply for scholarships.

How do I register?

Signing up is easy! If you’re a high school junior and need free college application help – the Matriculate Class of 2026 Application will open in February 2025 – join our mailing list and get early access to the application. 

If you’re a younger student and need free college application help – join our mailing list to receive quarterly college prep newsletters and be the first to get access to the application for your class.

Why do you need so much information when I register?

We need this information to ensure that you’re eligible for virtual advising. But don’t worry, all of your information is private and we don’t sell it or share it with any other party.

If you have further questions, please email us at [email protected].