Letters of Recommendation: How to Secure Strong Ones This Fall

Letters of recommendation can make or break a student’s application, whether it’s for college, scholarships, or competitive programs. Securing strong, personalized recommendations takes strategy, preparation, and thoughtful communication. Here’s how to get the best letters this fall. 1. Start Your Letters of Recommendation Early Don’t wait until the last minute. Teachers and mentors are busiest during the school year, so …

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 …