With so many colleges now test optional, families often ask: Do SAT or ACT scores really matter anymore? Short answer: they can, and often do. Unless a college is truly test blind, strong scores can still strengthen an application, support merit scholarships, and help admissions offices understand a student’s academic readiness. Here are six clear […]
Why You Should Test Prep: 6 Simple Reasons Read More »
Parents hear a lot of well‑intentioned advice about college admissions. Much of it is outdated, oversimplified, or taken out of context. In 2026, admissions offices are clearer than ever about what they value, yet common myths still cause unnecessary stress and poor decisions. Below are the most common myths I hear from families, along with
College Admissions Myths That Trip Up Families—and What’s Actually True in 2026 Read More »
Some of the most powerful experiences don’t come from organized activities at all. They come from real life. Here are some examples: These experiences build maturity, perspective, and self-awareness. They also lead to more authentic essays and can be showcased in college applications. Passion Is Not Always Flashy Not every student has a “spike” or
Students Should Have Meaningful Life Experiences, Not Just Load Their Resume Read More »
Every fall brings a new round of surprises, successes, and stress points for seniors applying to college. Reflecting on those patterns now can make a huge difference for current juniors who want to head into 2026 with a strong start. Here are the biggest takeaways from this year’s seniors, along with practical steps juniors can
College Application Tips for Juniors: Lessons From the Class of 2026 Read More »
In recent years, more than 80% of colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning students aren’t required to submit SAT or ACT scores with their applications. At first glance, that sounds like great news, right? After all, it’s one less test to stress about! But for many students, skipping the SAT or ACT can actually be
Why “Test-Optional” Isn’t Always the Best Option Read More »
When families think about college scholarships, they often assume GPA, SAT/ACT scores, or essays will determine how much aid a student receives. While those matter, the biggest factor in earning merit scholarships is choosing the right colleges to apply to. Merit aid—scholarships based on academics, leadership, talent, or extracurriculars—is a powerful way to lower college
The Best Way to Maximize College Merit Aid: Follow the Money Read More »
When college application season rolls around, families are often faced with a swirl of deadlines and terms: Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision. Add in financial aid deadlines, and it can feel overwhelming. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand what’s at stake and how to plan strategically. Early Decision (ED): Binding Commitment Best
A Parent’s Guide to Early Decision, Early Action, and Financial Aid Read More »
If your high school junior or senior is starting the college search, you may be wondering: Do we need a college admissions consultant to get into the best colleges? The answer depends on the schools your student is applying to. The application process for the best colleges can look very different from the process for
Do You Need a College Admissions Consultant for the Best Colleges? Read More »
“Your teen gets straight A’s, aces AP classes… but their college essay misses the mark. Why?” Teenagers getting ready to write their personal essay for college face a lot of pressure from this task, and can feel anxious and unprepared. Often, students have never had to write about themselves in a vulnerable, open way before.
Why Good Students Write Bad Essays: Avoiding the Classic Pitfalls Read More »
When families begin the college planning journey, one of the most pressing — and often misunderstood — questions is: “How much is college really going to cost us?” The sticker price of a college can be quite shocking, but the actual amount you’ll pay — often called the net price — is usually very different.
How Much Will College Really Cost? Read More »
