Extracurriculars in College Admissions (and What Really Matters)

When it comes to college applications, students often ask: Do extracurriculars really matter as much as grades and test scores? The short answer is yes—but maybe not in the way you think. Why Colleges Care About Extracurriculars Extracurriculars give colleges insight into who you are outside of the classroom. They show your interests, passions, and how you choose to spend …

Curvebreakers Welcomes 10 New Partners

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—10 new schools and organizations have officially joined as partners with Curvebreakers. Together, we’re expanding access to the tools, strategies, and confidence students need to excel on the SAT, ACT, and beyond. Meet Our Newest Partners From classrooms in New York City to community-driven organizations in New Jersey, each of these new partners represents …

August Regents Exams: Everything You Need to Know

As summer wraps up, many New York high school students are getting ready for one more academic milestone before fall: the August Regents Exams. Whether you’re aiming to retake a test, boost a score, or fulfill graduation requirements, these exams are your second chance to succeed. And we’re here to help—with in-person Regents Review sessions designed to give you the …

Enhanced ACT Coming Soon: Free Practice Exams Now Available

The enhanced ACT is bringing big changes, and Curvebreakers is here to guide students through every step. Starting in 2025, the ACT is rolling out a series of enhancements aimed at making the test more efficient, secure, and student-friendly. If you’re planning to take the ACT soon, it’s essential to understand what these updates mean for your prep strategy—and most …

Best Long Island High Schools by SAT Scores

Long Island is home to some of the best public and private high schools in New York State. Many of these schools consistently produce outstanding SAT scores, reflecting strong academic programs and a commitment to college readiness. Whether you’re a student aiming for top-tier colleges or a parent exploring the best local options, understanding where schools stand in terms of …

College Application Timeline: What to Do Each Year of High School

Applying to college can feel overwhelming—but with a clear plan in place, the journey becomes much more manageable. Starting early and knowing what to prioritize each year of high school can set students up for success by the time senior year rolls around. Here’s a year-by-year breakdown of what students should focus on to build a strong college application. Freshman …

How to Use GradBetter

GradBetter is a powerful tool that helps students understand how much merit aid they might receive from colleges—and even helps them appeal for more. If you’re applying to college or in the final stages of comparing offers, this guide will walk you through how to make the most of your GradBetter account. GradBetter Student Tutorial How to Create a GradBetter …

How to Choose the Best College for Your Major

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student will make, and selecting the right school for their intended major is crucial. While factors like campus life, location, and cost matter, ensuring that a college provides strong academic support and career opportunities in a chosen field should be a top priority. Here’s how students can effectively evaluate …

College Essay: 10 Most Common Topics

Writing a compelling college essay is one of the most crucial parts of the college application process. Admissions officers use essays to gain insight into students’ personalities, aspirations, and writing skills. If you’re struggling to come up with an idea for your personal statement, you’re not alone! To help, we’ve compiled a list of the ten most common college essay …