September Admissions News

By Brandie Erickson September 23, 2024 BS/MD Admissions Consulting Newsletter

 

The past month has been intense for seniors as they juggle personal statements and numerous essays. Since the Common App went live on August 1, colleges have been releasing their supplemental essay prompts. Many Moon Prep students have already been invited for interviews! One of the perks of submitting applications early. If you feel like your student is already falling behind, Moon Prep can help them stay on track and present their best self in their applications. 

Our team is filling up fast, so act now and schedule your complimentary call! We have expert essay coaches standing by to help guide you every step of the way with essays:

  • Brainstorming and outlining ideas

  • Refining content and adjusting the angle as needed

  • Conducting multiple rounds of thorough editing

You do not have to be on your own to complete these essays!


Did you know you can listen to BS/MD advice while you drive to work? We not only release videos on our YouTube channel, but we’ve also launched a podcast called The White Coat Club.

 

Early Decision

Application types, particularly Early Decision (binding), are a frequent topic of discussion. It’s a key question in college list meetings, especially if direct medical programs are included. Each student and situation requires a tailored strategy, so we handle these discussions on a case-by-case basis. Thankfully, our expert counselors Nicole and Lindsey take time in this podcast episode, Early Decision, to explore the Early Decision process and its impact on BS/MD applicants. They discuss how Early Decision can influence acceptance rates, weigh the pros and cons of applying Early Decision to a school, and share key strategies to help you navigate this crucial step in your college journey. 

X Factor Resumes

With BS/MD programs, it is truly not enough to “check the boxes.” Almost every applicant has shadowing hours and hospital volunteering. At Moon Prep, we specialize in unique resumes that stand out among these direct medical programs. Listen to our latest podcast episode, Most Important Thing For BS/MD Applications (Passion!), as we explore how a student’s passion can significantly influence acceptance rates. When woven into course rigor, applications, GPA, and essays, showing passion can be that X factor on your resume. Discover why showcasing genuine enthusiasm and dedication in your BS/MD application can set you apart from the competition. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are in the thick of the application process, this episode will guide you on how to make your passion shine through every aspect of your application.

Casper Exam

Are you gearing up for the Casper exam? You should be if these schools are on your list:

  • Hofstra University

  • Drexel University (but only if the student receives an interview)

  • Texas Tech University

  • University of Illinois at Chicago (optional)

This crucial situational judgment test is a key part of the admissions process for many medical schools and BS/MD programs, assessing your ability to handle ethical situations. While some may say you can’t study for it, the pros at Moon Prep know better—preparation is everything.

Our expert counselors specialize in the Casper assessment, providing personalized guidance to help you confidently navigate ethical dilemmas. Learn expert strategies to pass your exams and understand what the test scorers seek in compelling answers. Many students answer too narrowly, but with Moon Prep, you’ll learn to view scenarios from multiple perspectives.

Moon Prep can assist in preparation for a variety of situational judgment tests and assessments. Schedule a complimentary call to learn more!


As students continue to build college lists into the fall semester, we want to share some important college updates. 

  • UMass Amherst now requires the SRAR.

  • Many colleges and universities are reinstating the SAT/ACT requirement. Read more for the full list. 

  • UAlbany Launches Course for Student Families to Help Demystify College Experience. Read more.

ACT News

The ACT has announced some critical updates:

  • A modern, new, flexible format is available to test-takers with national online testing in spring 2025 and school-day testing in spring 2026. 

  • The test duration for the core sections has also been reduced to two hours instead of three. 

  • The composite score will now be the average of the English, reading, and math scores as the core scores, with science and writing offered as optional sections. 

  • Students are able to select from the ACT, the ACT + science, the ACT + writing, or the ACT + science and writing.


September financial advice: Focus on writing outstanding supplemental essays now to recycle in the spring for outside scholarship applications.

Want more tips like this? Sign up for our free Scholarships and Financial Aid Crash Course.
 

Creative Biolabs Scholarship
1 award, due September 30, $1,000

Any of our physical science majors immediately qualify for this creative and flexible scholarship! This scholarship requires an essay or PowerPoint presentation demonstrating your understanding of a few topics listed on the application, like stem cell therapy, gene therapies, or viruses. This is the perfect example of how it pays to be passionate about science! Apply here.

Stay Connected  
 

Want the latest college admissions and BS/MD news?
 

Text @moonprep to 81010 for updates on news, events, and specials!