Glossary of Terms and Acronyms

Campuswink.com Presents:

The Insiders Guide to College Admissions

A comprehensive glossary of modern terms, acronyms, and what they actually mean.

A Note from a Mom

When I went through the college admissions process with my own kids, I quickly realized the hardest part wasn’t

just the decisions — it was the vocabulary. Acronyms and insider language are everywhere. This guide is designed to give you clarity and confidence, so you can understand what colleges and forums are actually saying and to make informed decisions for your family.

APPLICATION TYPES & DECISION STATUS

1. Early Action (EA) – A non-binding early application option allowing students to apply and receive a decision earlier than Regular Decision. Students are not obligated to enroll if admitted.

2. Early Decision (ED) – A binding early admission agreement requiring the student to enroll if accepted, provided financial aid is sufficient.

3. Early Decision II (ED2) – A second binding Early Decision round with a later deadline, often used strategically after early rejections or deferrals.

4. ED0 – ED0 is most commonly used to describe a binding Early Decision pathway offered to students who attend certain summer programs at a college—most famously at University of Chicago.

a. How ED0 works at UChicago: Students attend a UChicago Summer Session program. After completing the program, they are invited to apply through an ultra-early, binding round. This happens before ED1 →hence the nickname ED0 and means that decisions often come earlier than typical ED1 admits. ED0 at University of Chicago shows extreme demonstrated interest, provides a direct experience with Admissions, and can provide a slight admissions edge at a very selective school

5. Rolling Admission – Applications reviewed continuously as received; decisions are released on an ongoing basis until spaces are filled.

6. Restrictive Early Action (REA) – A non-binding early application that restricts applicants from applying early

to other private colleges, though public early action applications are usually allowed. It is also called Single-

Choice Early Action (SCEA). Schools that offer REA include:

a. Harvard – REA program, you cannot apply EA or ED to other private schools, but you can apply EA to public universities

Yale – Uses the acronym SCEA, it has the same restrictions as Harvard and is extremely selective.

Princeton – Uses the acronym SCEA and does not allow EA or ED to any other private college.

Stanford – Uses the acronym SCEA, same rules as Harvard and Yale and is also extremely selective.

University of Notre Dame – Their REA option is slightly more flexible, but still restricts many early applications to private colleges and universities.

7a. Holistic review is a college admissions approach where schools evaluate the whole student—not just grades and test scores. Selective schools use holistic review to: Build a well-rounded class , Understand context behind achievements, Look for fit, character, and potential.

Admissions officers look at a combination of:

• Academics: GPA, course rigor, class rank

• Test scores (if submitted)

• Extracurriculars: clubs, sports, leadership, work, passions

• Essays: your voice, story, character

• Letters of recommendation

• Personal context: background, challenges, opportunities

• Special talents or achievements

8. Deferred – An Early applicant moved into the Regular Decision pool for further evaluation.

Demonstrated Interest – Measurable actions (visits, interviews, emails, virtual sessions) showing serious intent to enroll. Check the CDS to see if colleges track this—not all do.

9. Auto admit – A guaranteed offer of admission based on meeting specific academic criteria (usually GPA, class

rank, and/or test scores)—no holistic review required. What qualifies you

a. Class rank (most common)

b. Minimum GPA

c. Sometimes SAT/ACT scores

d. Most famously UT Austin and Texas A&M

10. Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) – A letter sent after deferral or waitlist reaffirming interest and providing meaningful updates. (Some colleges want these some do not)

11. Postponed (University of Michigan) – U-M’s official term for Early Action applicants moved into Regular Decision for additional review. It is not a denial; final decisions are typically released by late March or earlyApril.

12. Priority Deadline – An earlier deadline that increases eligibility for scholarships, housing, honors programs, or competitive majors.

13. Regular Decision (RD) – Standard application cycle with deadlines typically in January and decisions released in March or April.

14. Single Choice Early Action (SCEA) – Similar to REA; applicants may apply early to only one private institution but are not required to attend if admitted.

15. Waitlist (WL) – Status indicating admission may be offered later if space becomes available in the incoming class.

16. Cipher Postcard (William & Mary) – A cryptic branded postcard sent to students—basically a soft signal of interest, but not official.

BREAKDOWN OF EARLY DECISION, EARLY ACTION, AND REA/SCEA

1. 2. 3. Early Decision (ED) – Binding.

Early Action (EA) – Non-binding, flexible

REA/SCEA – Non-binding but exclusive.

CAMPUSWINK TIP

REA/SCEA is best for students who have a clear top-choice school, want financial aid flexibility, and still want public

school EA options as back ups.

ADMISSIONS STRATEGY & CATEGORIES

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Accredited (for IECs) – A credential that shows an IEC has met professional standards, experience

requirements, and ethical guidelines. Common accrediting organizations:

a. Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA)

b. Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)

c. What it means:

d. Verified experience in admissions counseling

e. Ongoing education + training

f. Commitment to ethical practices

g. Think: a “stamp of credibility”

Alumni Interview – An interview with a graduate of the college as part of the application process.

Awesomely Average Kid (AAK) – Informal term describing a solid, well-rounded student (often under ~3.5

GPA) who may not stand out at highly selective institutions.

Direct Admit (for Selective Majors like Business & Nursing) – Acceptance straight into a specific major or

school (like business or nursing) as a freshman, rather than applying later after enrolling.

a. Most often in Highly structured, competitive majors:

b. Business schools

c. Nursing programs Engineering (sometimes)

d. Examples:

e. Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business)

f. University of Michigan (Ross School of Business)

g. University of Texas at Austin (McCombs School of Business)

Limited spots → very competitive

h. i. j. k. If you’re NOT direct admit:

You may have to apply later (internal transfer)

Or may never get into that major

This is huge for majors like nursing where spots are extremely tight.

The alternative (if not direct admit)

l. Apply after freshman year (not guaranteed)

m. Meet strict GPA + prereqs

n. Compete again for limited seats

Essay Coach – A specialist who helps students brainstorm, structure, and refine college essays—without

writing them for the student. What they do:

a. Help uncover authentic story ideas

b. Guide structure + flow

c. Edit for clarity, voice, and impact

d. Should NOT write the essay for you (that’s unethical)

e. They work for the student/family (paid or sometimes part of IEC services)6. First Generation / Low Income (FGLI) – Student who is first in their immediate family to attend college and/or

from a low-income household.

7. 8. High Stats – Applicant whose GPA and test scores significantly exceed a college’s admitted student averages.

Hook – Institutional priority that may provide an admissions advantage (athletics, legacy, unique talent,

institutional goals).

9. IEC (Independent Educational Consultant) – A private college admissions expert who helps students navigate the entire application process—outside of their high school. What they do:

a. Build a balanced college list

b. Guide applications + strategy

c. Advise on timeline, testing, extracurriculars

d. Help position a student’s story + strengths

e. Who they work for:

f. The student/family (paid service)

g. Think: your personal college admissions strategist who helps market and present your best application

10. International (INTL) – Student applying from outside the United States and often requiring visa sponsorship.

11. In-State (IS) – A legal resident of the same state as a public university, typically eligible for reduced tuition.

12. Out-of-State (OOS) – Applicant whose legal residence is outside the public university’s state; often pays higher

tuition.

13. Legacy – Applicant with a parent or close relative who attended the institution.

14. Likely Letter – A message from highly selective schools telling a student they’ll likely be admitted (before

official decisions).

15. Niche Direct Admission – When a college offers you a spot based on information already available (like your

GPA, coursework, or profile data). With Niche Direct Admissions, students get a real admission offer , not a

hint, not a pre-read from participating colleges that review their profile. Students are accepted by the college

that sent the offer. However, most schools will still require enrollment steps like:

a. Submitting your official transcript

b. Completing your FAFSA or financial aid forms

c. Paying an enrollment deposit

d. Confirming your major or housing

e. It is not a full application, but it is a true admission.

f. not binding.

16. Prestige Trap – Choosing a school for its name/status instead of fit, happiness, or financial sense.

17. Reach School – College where admission is highly competitive for that student.

18. Recruited Athlete – Applicant formally supported by a college coach in the admissions process.

19. Safety School – College where admission is highly likely based on academic profile.

20. State Flagship – The main public university in a state, often the oldest or most selective (e.g., University of

Georgia, University of Texas).

21. Student-Athlete (SA) – Student participating in NCAA or collegiate athletics.

22. Target School – College where student profile aligns closely with admitted averages.

23. Underrepresented Minority (URM) – Groups historically underrepresented in higher education at a specific

institution.

24. Yield – Percentage of admitted students who ultimately enroll.

25. Yield Rate – The enrollment percentage of admitted students; often used as a measure of demand and

selectivity.

FINANCIAL AID & COST

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Cost of Attendance (COA) – Total annual estimated cost including tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, supplies,

transportation, and personal expenses.

CSS Profile – Additional financial aid application used by many private institutions for institutional aid.

Enrollment Deposit – Payment due by May 1 securing a spot in the incoming class; often non-refundable after

deadline.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) – Former FAFSA metric replaced by SAI.

FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid used to apply for federal need-based assistance.

Fee Waiver – Permission to waive application or testing fees due to financial hardship.

Financial Aid Appeal (Professional Judgment Review) – A financial aid appeal is a request for a college to

reconsider your financial aid package due to new or special circumstances not reflected in your FAFSA (which

uses income data from two years prior). Valid Reasons for an Appeal:

a. Loss of Income: Job loss, reduced hours, or pay cuts

b. Medical Expenses: Significant out-of-pocket healthcare costs

c. Family Changes: Divorce, death of a parent, or new dependentd. One-Time Financial Events: Income spikes (e.g., inheritance, IRA withdrawal) that don’t reflect ongoing

finances

e. Competing Offers: Another school offered a better aid package (more common at private colleges)

f. Academic Improvement: Higher GPA or test scores (for merit-based aid reconsideration)

8. Full Ride – Scholarship covering tuition, housing, meals, and sometimes additional expenses.

9. Full Tuition – Scholarship covering tuition only.

10. Gapping – When a school doesn’t meet your full financial need, leaving a “gap” you must cover.

11. Grandparent Waiver – In-state tuition eligibility based on a grandparent’s state residency (varies by

institution).

12. Housing Deposit – Separate payment securing campus housing; refund policies vary by school.

13. Meal Plan – Prepaid dining program required or selected by students.

14. Net Price Calculator (NPC) – College website tool estimating likely aid and projected out-of-pocket cost

15. Merit Aid – Scholarships based on academics, athletics, or talents—not financial need.

16. Need-Based Aid – Financial aid based on your family’s financial situation—not your grades/test scores.

17. Parent PLUS Loans – Federal loans parents can borrow to cover remaining college costs.

18. Pay-to-Play – Paying for club teams or showcase events to gain athletic recruiting exposure.

19. Pell Grant – Federal grant for eligible low-income undergraduate students; does not require repayment.

20. Student Aid Index (SAI) – Current FAFSA formula number used to determine federal aid eligibility.

21. Stacking Scholarships – Combining multiple scholarships and grants to reduce net cost.

22. Transportation Costs – Variable portion of COA covering travel to and from campus.

23. Work-Study – Federal program allowing students to earn wages through approved campus employment.

24. 529 Plan – Tax-advantaged savings plan for qualified education expenses.

TESTING & ACADEMICS

1. 2. 3. Academic Advisor – A college staff member who helps you pick classes, stay on track, and navigate your major.

ACT – Standardized admissions test covering English, math, reading, and science reasoning.

Advanced Placement (AP) – College-level high school courses that may earn college credit or advanced

placement.

4. Block Schedule – Taking fewer classes at a time, but for longer periods (instead of 6–7 classes daily).

5. Class Rank – Academic standing relative to classmates.

6. CLEP Exams – Exams allowing students to earn college credit by demonstrating subject mastery.

7. Course Rigor – How challenging your high school classes are (AP , IB, honors).

8. Desmos Calculator – Online graphing calculator embedded within the digital SAT and ACT .

9. Dual Enrollment – Earning college credit while still enrolled in high school.

10. Full-Time vs. Part-Time (Typical College Standard) – Student type depending on the number or credit hours a student takes. This may vary by school.

a. Full-time: Usually 12+ credit hours

b. Part-time: Usually under 12 credit hours

c. Most aid requires full-time enrollment

d. Dropping below 12 credits during add/drop can reduce or cancel aid

11. GPA – Grade Point Average; cumulative measure of academic performance.

12. IELTS – International English proficiency exam alternative to TOEFL.

13. Higher Level (HL) – Advanced IB courses comparable to AP rigor.

14. International Baccalaureate (IB) – International diploma program with standardized assessments.

15. Mac vs. PC – Choosing a laptop—some majors (like engineering/business) may require specific software that works better on one.

16. National Merit Finalist (NMF) – Final stage of National Merit Scholarship competition based on PSAT performance and application.

17. Placement Test – An exam taken after you enroll in a college to determine the right starting level for your

classes (especially in math, writing, or languages). What it’s used for:

a. Math placement (algebra → calculus track)

b. English/writing level

c. Foreign language placement

What determines your placement

d. Placement test score

e. Sometimes SAT/ACT , AP , or IB scores

f. High school coursework

18. PSAT/NMSQT – Preliminary SAT that also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

19. Recalculated GPA – Colleges often recalculate your GPA using their own formula (usually focusing on core academic classes).

20. Rigor – How challenging your high school coursework is (AP , IB, honors, etc.).21. Salutatorian – Student ranked second in graduating class.

22. SAT – Standardized admissions test covering math and evidence-based reading and writing.

23. Standard Level (SL) – IB courses with less depth than HL.

24. Superscore – Combining highest section scores from multiple test dates.

25. Transfer Equivalency Charts – Guides showing how courses transfer between institutions.

26. TOEFL – English proficiency exam for non-native English speakers.

27. Test Optional – Policy allowing students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores.

28. Test Blind – Policy where submitted test scores are not considered at all.

29. Unweighted GPA – GPA calculated without additional weight for advanced courses.

30. Valedictorian – Student ranked first in graduating class.

31. Weighted GPA – GPA including additional points for Honors, AP , or IB courses.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS & PROGRAMS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Alumni Interview – Interview conducted by a graduate of the institution.

Brag Sheet – Student-created document summarizing achievements to assist recommenders.

Coalition Application – Alternative shared college application system.

Common Application – Shared online platform used by hundreds of colleges.

Common Black College Application – One application used to apply to multiple participating HBCUs.

Early College – Programs through universities that offer full pathways in addition to dual credit that allows

high school students to take college-level courses (often for credit and usually at a discounted or in-state

tuition rate) before graduating HS sometimes even earning an associate degree at the same time as their high

school diploma. Credits don’t always transfer to every school. Highly selective colleges may prefer students

take the most rigorous classes available at their high school

7. 8. Extracurricular Activities (ECs) – Structured activities outside academic coursework.

First-Year Seminar (FYS) – A small, discussion-based class that helps freshmen learn how to succeed in college

academically and socially. What it’s like:

a. Small class (10–20 students)

b. Focus on writing, discussion, critical thinking

c. Easy way to meet people in your first weeks

d. Sometimes tied to a theme or major

e. Think: your “how to do college” class

9. Glimpse – Optional short video submission showcasing personality.

10. Ivy Day – Coordinated decision release day for Ivy League schools.

11. Letter of Recommendation (LOR) – Written endorsement from teacher, counselor, or mentor.

12. May 1 (Decision Day) – National deadline to submit enrollment deposit.

13. Orientation – Intro program before school starts to help students meet people and learn campus systems.

Students can usually sleep in the dorms and may register for classes during this time.

14. Passion Project – Self-initiated long-term project demonstrating depth of interest.

15. Personal Statement – Primary essay submitted with the application.

16. QuestBridge – Nonprofit connecting high-achieving low-income students with full scholarship opportunities.

17. Resume – Summary of activities, awards, leadership, and employment.

18. Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) – System where students enter transcript information manually.

19. STARS – Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System used by many public universities.

20. Supplemental Essays – Additional required essays specific to each institution.

21. Why Us Essay – Essay explaining fit and interest in a particular school.

22. Colleges and Programs with "Funnel" Potential

a. Brown University Pre-College: Extensive, in-depth on-campus courses.

b. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR):Highly competitive, 8-week program.

c. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS):Prestigious, selective academic sessions.

d. Columbia University Summer: NYC residential programs.

e. Northwestern University Center for Talent Development (CTD): Focuses on gifted students.

f. Boston University's RISE (Research in Science & Engineering): Highly selective, offering lab research.

g. Emory Pre-College Program: Specialized academic sessions.

SCHOOL TYPES & ATHLETICS

1. 2. 3. Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) – Major NCAA Division I conference primarily on the East Coast.

Big Ten Conference – Major NCAA Division I conference primarily in Midwest and Mid-Atlantic.

Buyer School – A college that is actively trying to attract and “buy” students, often by offering merit

scholarships, perks, or incentives. What it looks like:

a. Generous merit aid / discountsb. Lots of emails, fee waivers, outreach

c. Honors programs, priority housing, extras

d. Higher acceptance rates

e. Why they do it:

f. Compete for strong applicants

g. Increase enrollment + stats

h. Build stronger incoming classes

i. Think: the school is “selling” itself to YOU

4. Club Sports – Student-run teams that compete against other colleges, but are not NCAA varsity. What it’s like:

a. Tryouts often required

b. Travel for games/tournaments

c. Some fees (uniforms, travel)

d. Moderate time commitment

e. Think: competitive but not full-time athlete life

5. Colleges that Change Lives – This refers to a group of smaller, student-focused colleges highlighted by the

Colleges That Change Lives organization. These schools are known for Strong teaching (professors prioritize

undergrads), tight-knit communities, and a strong focus on personal growth over prestige.

6. 7. Dream School – Student’s top-choice institution regardless of admission odds.

HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) – A college or university where at least 25% of full-time undergraduate

students are Hispanic/Latino.

8. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) – Institutions founded to educate Black students prior to

1964.

9. Honors College – Selective academic program within a university offering enriched coursework.

10. Intramural (IM) – Casual, for-fun sports played within the student body. What it’s like:

a. No tryouts

b. Play with friends or dorm teams, inter fraternity/ sorority

c. Short seasons, flexible schedule

d. Low-stakes competition

e. Think: fun, social, zero pressure

11. Ivy League – Athletic conference of eight selective Northeastern private universities.

12. Land-grant institution – A college or university that was given federal land (or funding from it) to make higher

education more accessible and practical, especially in fields like agriculture, engineering, and science.

13. Liberal Arts College (LAC) – Undergraduate-focused institution emphasizing broad arts and sciences

education.

14. Little Ivies –

“Little Ivies” is an informal term for a group of highly selective small liberal arts colleges that offer

an Ivy League–level education but in a smaller setting. They’re known for small class sizes, close professor

relationships, and strong academic rigor. Common examples include: Williams College, Amherst College,

Swarthmore College, and Middlebury College.

15. MSI (Minority-Serving Institution) – A broad category of colleges that serve a high percentage of minority

students. Includes:

a. HBCUs

b. HSIs

c. Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs)

d. Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs)

16. Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) – NCAA policy allowing athletes to earn compensation.

17. National Letter of Intent (NLI) – Binding agreement committing student-athlete to a specific school.

18. Official Visit – College-funded visit for recruited athletes.

19. Preferred Walk-On – Athlete promised roster spot without scholarship.

20. PWI (Predominantly White Institution) – A PWI is a college or university where the majority of the student

population is white, typically meaning 50% or more of students identify as white.

21. Rec (Recreational Sports) – Open-access sports and fitness activities run by campus recreation. What it’s like:

a. Gym classes, pickup games, fitness programs

b. Yoga, spin, basketball runs, etc.

c. No teams required

d. Think: stay active on your own terms

22. Seller School - A college that is in such high demand that it doesn’t need to offer incentives—students compete

to get in. What it looks like:

a. Little to no merit aid

b. Highly selective admissions

c. Low acceptance rates

d. Strong brand/reputation

23. Service Academies – U.S. military academies requiring post-graduation service commitment.24. Small Liberal Arts College (SLAC) – Smaller LAC with close faculty engagement.

25. Southeastern Conference (SEC) – Major NCAA Division I athletic conference in the Southeast.

26. State School – Any public university funded by a state government. What it means:

a. Includes ALL public colleges in a state system

b. Offers lower in-state tuition

c. Can range from small regional schools to huge universities

27. Top 20 (T20) – Informal reference to colleges ranked roughly in top 20 nationally.

28. Top 30 (T30) – Informal ranking reference to top 30 institutions.

29. Top 50 / Top 100 – Informal ranking bands used in discussions.

30. Unofficial Visit – Family-funded campus visit.

31. Varsity (NCAA) – Official college teams that compete at the highest level (NCAA). What it’s like:

a. Recruited athletes

b. Major time commitment (practice, travel, training)

c. Possible athletic scholarships

d. Big games, school representation

e. Think: high-level, serious commitment

32. Walk-On – Athlete joining team without scholarship.

PATHWAYS & REGIONAL PROGRAMS

1. Academic Common Market – Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) tuition-sharing program allowing

students from participating southern states to pay in-state tuition at certain out-of-state public institutions

when a major is unavailable in their home state.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. A–G Requirements – Required high school coursework for UC/CSU eligibility.

BS/MD – Combined bachelor’s and medical degree pathway.

Cal Grant – California state financial aid program.

Capped Major (UC) – UC major requiring competitive internal admission.

Combined / Accelerated Master’s – Program allowing bachelor’s and master’s in shortened timeframe.

Common Data Set (CDS) – Standardized annual report containing detailed admissions, academic, and financial

data.

8. Co-op – Alternating academic study with paid full-time work experience.

9. Coordinated Admission Program (CAP) – UT Austin transfer pathway.

10. CSU Eligibility Index – Former GPA/test-based CSU admission formula.

11. Direct Admit – Acceptance directly into a specific major.

12. Enlisted-to-Officer Programs – Military pathways allowing enlisted members to become officers.

13. Florida Bright Futures – Florida merit-based state scholarship program.

14. First Year Abroad – Freshman year completed at international campus.

15. Gap Year – Year taken between high school and college for growth experiences.

16. Georgia HOPE Scholarship – Georgia state merit scholarship program.

17. GI Bill – U.S. military benefit that helps pay for college (tuition, housing, etc.) for veterans or their dependents.

18. Independent College Counselor – Private consultant assisting families through admissions.

19. Illinois MAP Grant – Illinois need-based state grant.

20. Impacted / Capped Major – Major with limited enrollment and higher entry standards.

21. Institutional Priorities – Behind-the-scenes goals (majors, diversity, athletes, geography) that influence

admissions decisions.

22. Internships – Career-related work experiences during college.

23. Learning Community – Cohort-based residential or academic grouping around shared interests.

24. Military Tuition Assistance – Tuition benefits for active-duty service members.

25. New York TAP – Tuition Assistance Program for eligible New York residents.

26. Pennsylvania PHEAA Grant – Pennsylvania state grant program.

27. PIQs – Personal Insight Questions used in UC applications.

28. Rah-Rah – Strong school spirit and athletic culture.

29. Resident Advisor (RA) – Upper-class student who lives in residence halls to mentor students and enforce

Policies.

30. ROTC – Reserve Officers’ Training Corps leading to military commission.

31. Summer Programs – Short-term academic enrichment programs hosted by universities.

32. State/Military Service Commitment – Required service obligation after graduation from certain programs.

33. Texas Top 6% Rule – Automatic admission policy for top Texas high school graduates to certain public

universities.

34. Transfer Pathway – Structured program guaranteeing transfer upon meeting requirements.

35. UC Comprehensive Review – Holistic admissions review process.

36. UC System – University of California public university system.37. UC TAG – Transfer Admission Guarantee for eligible community college students.

38. Verto Program – A program where students start college abroad for a semester/year and then transfer to a

partner university.

39. Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) – Organization coordinating WUE and regional

agreements.

40. Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) – Tuition reciprocity program among participating western states.

41. Work Hard / Play Hard – Campus culture balancing rigorous academics and active social life.

42. 2+2 Program – Two years at one institution followed by transfer to complete degree.

HOUSING

1. 2. 3. 4. Housing Portal – Online system where admitted students select housing preferences.

Housing Lottery – A randomized system universities use to assign students a time and day to chose housing.

Living-Learning Community (LLC) – A housing program where students with a shared interest or major live

together and often take classes together. What it’s like:

a. Live in the same dorm or floor

b. Often linked to a specific academic theme (business, STEM, honors, etc.)

c. Built-in events, study groups, and social activities

d. Constant community from day one

e. Think: your built-in friend group

+

support system

Suite Style – Dorm setup where you share a bathroom with a small group instead of the whole floor. Common

area sometimes with kitchen in the middle and bedrooms and bathrooms surrounding.

GREEK LIFE

1. Bama Rush – The highly publicized sorority recruitment process at the University of Alabama that went viral

on TikTok and became a cultural phenomenon.

a. OOTD rush edition

2. 3. Bid – Invitation to join a Greek organization.

Continuous Open Bidding (COB) – COB is an informal way to join a sorority after the formal recruitment

process is over. Sororities that still have open spots can invite potential new members to smaller, more casual

events — like coffee meetups or hangouts — instead of the full structured rush.

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Greek Life – Fraternity and sorority organizations on campus.

Interfraternity Council (IFC) – Governing body for fraternities.

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) – Governing body for historically Black Greek organizations.

Panhellenic Council – Governing body for sororities.

Potential New Member (PNM) – A PNM is any student who is going through sorority recruitment but has not

yet joined a sorority.

9. Rho Chi (Recruitment Counselor) – An active sorority member who temporarily disaffiliates from her chapter

to serve as an unbiased guide for PNM’s during primary recruitment. They provide emotional support,

logistical guidance, and mentorship to help PNM’s navigate the process, often hiding their own affiliation until

bid day. The name “Rho Chi” may very by school. Examples include:

a. Rho Gamma

b. Gamma Chi

c. Pi Chi

d. Rho Chi

10. Recruitment/Rush – Recruitment period for Greek organizations. Some campuses are converting to the term

recruitment instead of rush.

11. RushTok – Refers to the wave of TikTok content centered around sorority recruitment (“rush”).

12. Snap Bid – A snap bid is an invitation to join a sorority that happens immediately after formal recruitment

ends but before bid day. It’s usually offered to fill last-minute open spots, and if you receive one, you have a

very short window to accept.

13. Sorority Recruitment Consultant (Rush Coach) – A private coach hired by a student/family to help prepare for

sorority recruitment (rush). What they do:

a. Help plan outfits (OOTDs) for each round

b. Practice conversations + confidence skills

c. Teach recruitment strategy (ranking, expectations)

d. Prep for social media presence

14.

“Touse”

- This is a term meaning top house. The top house is the sorority with the biggest amount of PNM’s

that received a bid from that house, you can think of it as the most popular house.MISCELLANEOUS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Add/Drop Period – a short window at the beginning of a college semester when students can change their

class schedule (add or drop courses) without academic penalty.

Bed Party – A new trend where families decorate a bed with college merch to celebrate a commitment—

photos, gear, the whole moment.

Coursicle – A class scheduling app that helps students track courses, plan schedules, and get alerts when a full

class opens up.

FERPA – Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act; a federal law that protects the privacy of a student’s

education records, including grades, financial aid, and billing information. Once a student turns 18 or enrolls

in college, FERPA rights transfer to the student, not the parent. Students must give permission (usually by

checking a box or completing a form in their college portal) to allow parents/guardians access. What Happens

If They DON’T Give Access

a. Parents cannot see grades

b. Parents cannot access financial aid details or bills

c. Colleges cannot discuss the student’s records with parents

Meal Plan – A pre-paid program that allows students to access dining halls and other meal locations on

campus. Often times a certain meal plan is required for incoming freshman.

Syllabus Week – Also called sylly week. The first week of a college semester, usually a lighter week known for a

“party atmosphere”

. While classes often only review the syllabus, it is a good time for students to socialize,

pick seats, and establish routines, despite the temptation to skip class.

Rate my professor – A popular website where college students leave anonymous reviews and ratings of

professors to help others choose classes.

Retention rate – The percentage of first-year students who return to the same college for their second year.

Campuswink.com – A platform that connects prospective students with current college students for real,

unscripted insight on campus life. You can:

a. Book virtual sessions or custom in-person tours.

b. Learn about dorms, classes, Greek life, and social culture.

c. Hear the real story from students actually living it.

d. Gain specific, authentic insights that strengthen your “Why Us” essays and application strategy.

e. It’s better way to explore colleges, and write about them with confidence.