With the March SAT approaching quickly, many students and parents are asking the same question:Is it still possible to raise an SAT score by 200+ points in this time frame? The answer is yes—but only if you study strategically. The weeks before the March exam are critical, and how you use them can make a major difference in your final …
High-Scoring Students Do These 5 Things Differently on the SAT
Every year, we work with high-scoring students who raise their SAT scores by 100, 200—even 300+ points. And here’s the surprising truth: it’s not because they’re naturally better at math or reading. High-scoring students don’t study more—they study differently. If your student feels stuck or isn’t seeing results despite putting in the time, these five habits are often the missing …
Deferred ≠ Rejected: What to Do If Your College Decision Is Deferred
Few words cause more stress for families than “deferred.”At first glance, it can feel like a quiet no.As a result, students often feel discouraged, while parents are left wondering what went wrong. However, here’s the truth—a deferral is not a rejection.In fact, in many cases, it means a college still sees you as a strong candidate and simply needs more …
What a “Good” SAT Score Really Means in 2025
If you’ve ever asked yourself “Is this SAT score good enough?”—you’re not alone. Parents and students alike feel enormous pressure around SAT numbers, especially as college admissions continue to evolve. Add in test-optional policies, shifting averages, and social media comparisons, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth? A “good” SAT score depends entirely on where a student is applying—not …
What Colleges Actually Care About
When it comes to college admissions, parents often have a picture in their heads: perfect grades, perfect test scores, and a perfectly polished resume. But in reality, colleges are looking at a much more nuanced picture. Understanding the difference can save your teen—and your sanity. What Parents Think Colleges Look At It’s easy to see where parents get the idea. …
Finished the SAT? Here’s What You Should Do Next
Congratulations! You’ve finished the SAT — whether it felt like a breeze or a marathon, that’s a big milestone. Now that the test is behind you, you might be wondering: What’s next? Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the weeks after your SAT. 1. Take a Moment to Breathe First things first: give yourself a break. You just …
College Essay: How to Perfect Your Essays Before the New Year
The end of the year is the perfect time for high school seniors to polish their college essay. With deadlines approaching, taking the time now to refine your essay can make all the difference in standing out to admissions officers. Here’s a guide to help you perfect your college essay before the new year. 1. Start With a Strong College …
Financial Aid Hacks: Getting More Money Without Extra Effort
Navigating financial aid can feel overwhelming, but did you know there are smart ways to maximize your aid without spending extra hours filling out applications or hunting for scholarships? These “financial aid hacks” help students and parents unlock more money with minimal effort. 1. Double-Check Your FAFSA Early Filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the …
5 Ways Parents Can Make the Most of Black Friday for Their Student’s Future
Black Friday isn’t just about snagging the latest gadgets—it’s also the perfect time to invest in your student’s education. From tutoring packages to tech tools that make learning more efficient, parents can make smart purchases that pay off long after the holiday season. Here are five ways to take advantage of Black Friday for your student’s future. 1. Invest in …
Procrastination: How to Beat It (Even When You Don’t Feel Motivated)
We’ve all been there — staring at a pile of notes, a blank Google Doc, or a study plan we swear we’ll start tomorrow. Procrastination is one of the biggest obstacles students face, especially when it comes to preparing for big tests like the SAT, ACT, or AP exams. The good news? You don’t need endless motivation to get things …