Insider college admissions knowledge - unlocked for your college journey.
Our collection of free, expert-crafted ebooks and guides deliver actionable insights from our team of former admissions officers and experienced counselors.
Featured ebooks
Navigate the complex world of college admissions
Empowerly’s Guide to the college application
Approach your college applications with a well-defined strategy.
Empowerly’s Guide to Summer Programs
Make the most of your summer with our expert advice.
Empowerly’s Guide to Application Essays
Approach your college essays with a well-defined strategy
Your Resource Shelf
Browse our full library of free ebooks & guides
Mastering the University of California Application
The Complete Student Checklist for 2025: Freshman Edition
The Complete Student Checklist for 2025: Sophomore Edition
The Complete Student Checklist for 2025: Junior Edition
The Complete Student Checklist for 2025: Senior Edition
Empowerly’s Guide to Extracurriculars 2
Empowerly’s Guide to Application Essays
Empowerly’s Guide to High School Internships
Empowerly’s Guide to Letters of Recommendation
Empowerly’s Guide to Choosing a Major
Empowerly’s Guide to Understanding the College List
Empowerly’s Guide to Student Success
A Parent’s Guide to US Admissions: PT 1
A Parent’s Guide to US Admissions: PT 2
A Parent’s Guide to Financial Aid
College Essay Tips for the UC Schools
Empowerly’s Guide to Extracurriculars
Empowerly’s Guide to Choosing a Major
Empowerly’s Guide to Understanding the College List
Empowerly’s Guide to Student Wellness
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tailored to you, supporting you through every step of your college journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Empowerly’s Ebooks & Guides library?
A free collection of expert-crafted ebooks and guides covering essays, deadlines, extracurriculars, financial aid, and more to support your college application journey.
How can I access Empowerly’s ebooks and guides?
You can view the library by signing up with your name, email, zip code, and graduation year to unlock full access.
Are the ebooks free?
Yes – Empowerly’s ebooks and guides are available at no cost to help students and families navigate the admissions process.
What topics are covered in the guides?
Guides cover essays, summer programs, extracurriculars, recommendation letters, building your college list, and more.
How often are new ebooks published?
Empowerly updates the library regularly to include timely resources and up-to-date admissions strategies.
Can I use these guides for students applying outside the U.S.?
While most content focuses on U.S. admissions, many strategies (essays, activities, planning) are broadly applicable globally.
Do the guides help with test prep too?
Yes – some ebooks include sections or guides on test prep, deadlines, and how testing fits into your overall application strategy.
Can counselors help me use these guides?
Absolutely – your Empowerly counselor can walk you through relevant guides and help you apply them to your application plan.
Are there guides for parents too?
Yes – there are “Parent’s Guide” editions that explain how to support students through admissions and financial aid.
What is the “Complete Student Checklist” in the library?
It’s a series of checklists by year (freshman to senior) that help you stay on track with academic, extracurricular, and application milestones.
