Welcome to the comprehensive overview of the Best Colleges 2016 guidebook, published by U.S. News & World Report. This invaluable resource is designed to assist high school students and their families in navigating the complex college admissions process. It is not just a book; it is a roadmap that leads you from the initial steps of preparing for college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT to the final stages of choosing and financing your dream college. With over 30 years of experience, U.S. News has established its Best Colleges program as the gold standard for college evaluation in the United States.

The Best Colleges 2016 guide delves into emerging trends within higher education, offering readers insights into significant changes that are shaping the landscape. For example, the guide highlights how business schools are increasingly integrating liberal arts courses into their curriculums, reflecting a broader educational shift. Additionally, it discusses upcoming alterations to the SAT test, which could impact how students prepare for college admissions.

Moreover, the guide addresses critical issues such as campus safety, specifically the measures colleges are implementing to combat sexual violence. This focus on safety provides parents and students peace of mind as they consider their options.

Education experts, including a diverse panel of admissions officers, contribute valuable advice on how to plan your college search effectively. The guide emphasizes the importance of communication in applications and essays, providing tips on what to include and what to avoid. As highlighted by USA Today, the guidebook compiles all essential information about colleges, making it a go-to resource for anyone involved in the college search process.

One of the standout features of this guide is the extensive directory section, which profiles nearly 1,600 colleges across the United States. This 160-page section is particularly beneficial for college admissions professionals and families alike, offering up-to-date information on median 25th-75th percentile scores for all colleges, application deadlines, ethnic diversity, popular majors, and expenses related to tuition, room, and board.

Additionally, the guide presents exclusive rankings based on thorough data collection and expert analysis. These rankings evaluate various types of schools, from large national universities to small liberal arts colleges, as well as institutions with exemplary undergraduate business and engineering programs. It also highlights state-supported colleges, the best value schools, and historically black colleges and universities.

Beyond rankings, the guide identifies colleges that excel in providing internships and undergraduate research opportunities, as well as those whose graduates carry the least debt upon graduation. This practical information can significantly influence a student’s decision-making process.

In addition to these features, the guide includes several informative chapters that cover a wide range of topics essential to prospective students:

• Tame Your Test Anxiety: Strategies for managing the stress of standardized tests.
• Is Greek Life Right for You? An overview of the benefits and drawbacks of participating in sororities and fraternities.
• A+ Schools for B Students: Tips for students with average grades to find schools that will nurture their potential.
• Consider A Public Honors College: Advantages of attending a public honors program.
• Your College Search To-Do List: A comprehensive checklist starting from freshman year of high school.
• The Inside Scoop on Financial Aid: Insights into navigating the financial aid process.
• Work-study, STEM scholarships, and how to save money: Practical advice for financing education efficiently.

Notably, much of the information contained within this guidebook is unique and difficult to find elsewhere, whether in print or online. It serves as an essential tool for students and families aiming to make informed decisions about higher education.

In summary, the Best Colleges 2016 guidebook is a must-have for anyone preparing for college. With its detailed insights, practical advice, and exclusive data, it empowers students to approach their college search with confidence and clarity.