In this episode you will hear: (11:29) In this week’s news segment, an article from Applerouth.com, “Test-optional Does Not Mean Test Blind”, by Jed Applerouth. This article explains that admissions tests continue to play a key role at many colleges and universities, and families should know that a variety of factors are at play when a school chooses to go test-optional. Mark and Dave discuss why student should not misinterpret what test-optional really means.     (43:36) We are in Chapter 117 of 171 Answers and Mark explains a few of the ways a family can increase their chances of getting need-based aid. As usual, Anika asks great questions.   (01:03:02) This week’s question is from Kim in NYC and she wants to know how to look at a college’s endowment to better understand their financial health. Mark also shares a great resource besides endowment to assess the financial health of private colleges.   As we promised in this week’s episode, here is a link to the financial health grades for 933 private schools     (01:21:19) Mark kicks off his interview with Vincent Garcia, TITLE: Understanding the 23 Colleges in the California State University System   (01:31:03) Mark’s recommended resource of the week is: NACAC’s College Admission Status Update is a central resource of information about changes in college admission as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Here is the link:   (01:40:46) College Spotlight: Chapman University ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"