Paying in Full as the Ticket Into Colleges

By KATE ZERNIKE

Many colleges are looking more favorably on wealthier applicants as they make their admissions decisions.

The Choice Blog

For Top Colleges, Economy Has Not Reduced Interest (or Made Getting in Easier)

By JACQUES STEINBERG and TAMAR LEWIN

The nation's most selective colleges and universities will be admitting a smaller percentage of applicants than in previous years.

Weeks of Wooing First Lady Pay Off for a New University

By JESSE McKINLEY

Michelle Obama has chosen the University of California, Merced, the smallest, newest campus in the state system, as her sole stop on the college commencement circuit.

The Saturday Profile

In Scotland, New Leadership Crumbles Old Barrier

By RAYMOND BONNER

Louise Richardson, a naturalized United States citizen and Catholic, is the first woman president of the University of St. Andrews since it was founded 600 years ago.

Well-Regarded New Jersey High School to Use Drug-Sniffing Dogs

By TINA KELLEY

Millburn High School has previously shied away from such measures, and officials would not say what prompted the change of heart.

Harsh Economy Takes Toll on New York State Summer Arts Program

By KATE TAYLOR

A 40-year-old, state-subsidized program that offers training in the arts may have to cut its budget by as much as half because of the drop-off in real estate transactions.

Students Give Up Wheels for Their Own Two Feet

By ELISABETH ROSENTHAL

To confront childhood obesity, traffic and car emissions, a city in Italy is encouraging its children to walk to school.

Defeat and Some Success for Texas Evolution Foes

By MICHAEL BRICK

A debate over new curriculum requirements relating to evolution in Texas stands to influence standards nationwide.

Senate Moves to Expand National Service Programs

By DAVID M. HERSZENHORN

Named for Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the measure would create new cadres of volunteers focused on education, clean energy, health care and volunteers.