Feeling the pressure to apply early to college? You’re not alone. With selective schools filling most seats before regular deadlines, early applications are more critical than ever. But is your teen truly ready? Here’s what the latest data shows—and how to decide if Early Decision or Early Action is the right move.

If your child struggles to enjoy reading, you're not alone. This article offers practical, parent-tested strategies to help foster a love of reading at home. Learn how to create a reading-friendly environment that supports every kind of reader.

For students preparing for private school admissions, understanding the differences between the SSAT and ISEE is key to creating an effective prep plan. In this post, we break down how the two tests compare in content, format, and scoring—and offer expert guidance on how to choose the right test for your student.

Once considered dependable “safety schools,” top public flagships are now anything but. In this post, we dig into the surprising numbers behind surging selectivity, why out-of-state applicants are feeling the squeeze, and how families can build smarter, balanced college lists that reflect the new admissions reality.

As sophomore year winds down, it’s the perfect moment to look ahead to standardized testing. This guide walks rising juniors through three simple steps—diagnostic testing, picking a first test date, and starting prep—so they can head into junior year with a clear plan and way less stress. Sophomore summer is where it all starts!

With the ACT’s new changes, the Science section is now optional — but should you skip it? In this article, we unpack why keeping Science in your prep plan might be the smartest move, how it fits into the new composite score, and what colleges are really looking for.

Curious about the new Enhanced ACT? I took the computer-based version on April 5th and lived to tell the tale. From quirky interface features to surprising changes in difficulty and timing, here's what students and families need to know—plus why paper testing might still be your best bet (for now).

The SAT is administered digitally to all students (with the exception of specific accommodations). Although the SAT has evolved over time, its role within the college admission process has changed little. The SAT is still used to predict students’ college readiness and success in entry-level college courses. Adaptive Structure

As college application season inches closer, now’s a great time for juniors to take stock. How do their grades and test scores align with their dream schools? This guide offers practical tools and perspective to help students calibrate their college list for realistic goals, smart planning, and stronger outcomes.

Junior year isn’t over—and your story definitely isn’t written yet. If your GPA isn’t where you want it to be, now’s the moment to get strategic, shift your habits, and finish strong. This post breaks down exactly how to make the most of these final months and boost your college readiness.

Not sure what to expect from this year’s digital AP exams? You’re not alone. With Bluebook officially taking over, here’s everything you need to know—from how hybrid tests work to why you’ll want to try Desmos in advance. Plus, some handy tips to help you feel confident going in.

When a software glitch shut down the SAT mid-test for thousands of students on March 8, the College Board scrambled to fix the issue—but did their solution go far enough? Here’s what happened, how students were affected, and why the College Board needs to rethink its response to this debacle.

Executive Function coaching has gone mainstream – and for good reason. With increasing academic stress, digital distractions, and packed schedules, students need the tools to plan, focus, and manage their time effectively. From early interventions to virtual coaching, EF support is more accessible than ever, helping students thrive now and in the future.

Think advanced math isn’t for you? Think again. From boosting college applications to strengthening problem-solving skills, AP Precalculus and Calculus offer benefits beyond the classroom. Learn why tackling a challenging math class with the right support can save you time, money, and stress—and set you up for lifelong success.

Your math skills are solid, so why aren’t your test scores? Rushing, test-day stress, and overlooked gaps in knowledge can all hold you back. Instead of endless drilling, take a smarter approach. Learn how to identify and fix the real issues – so your scores reflect what you’re truly capable of!

APs are an undeniable fixture of American education, with over 3 million students in 2024 sitting for 5.7 million exams and over a third of the graduating class of 2024 having taken at least one AP exam. Students interested in attending highly selective colleges know that APs, IBs, or

Navigating the Digital SAT can feel overwhelming, but the right tools and strategies make all the difference. In this guide to the Bluebook testing app, we’ll break down the test structure, share key tips for each section, and highlight must-know features like Desmos—so you can walk in on test day with confidence!

The digital ACT is coming, and we’re gaining clarity on the new format, content tweaks, and what it means for students. With a practice test released, registrations open, and new insights from ACT researchers, this article breaks down the latest updates to help you prepare for this exam's evolution in 2025.

Navigate the ever-changing college admissions landscape with confidence! From the resurgence of standardized testing to the rising competitiveness of Southern colleges and selective majors, 2025 brings new challenges—and opportunities. Discover seven key trends shaping the process, actionable strategies for success, and one enduring truth: thoughtful planning and authenticity are your best allies.

Maximizing your AP success can be a game-changer in the college admissions process, especially for schools that value academic rigor. Did you know that at UCLA, strong AP scores are explicitly considered as part of the admissions review? Not only can high scores strengthen your application, but they may also earn you college credit, saving both time and money. Choosing the right AP classes during sophomore and junior year is just as important as excelling in them—focus on your strengths and future goals to make the most of these opportunities.

Advanced Placement courses have transformed American high schools, reshaping college admissions while fueling both opportunity and stress for students. With millions tackling APs each year, how can we balance their benefits and challenges? Explore the history, data, and debate surrounding AP’s dominance—and what balance means in today’s high-pressure academic landscape.

The demographic shift predicted for over a decade has arrived, with fewer high school graduates affecting college admissions nationwide. As institutions adapt to these changes, students are rethinking the value of a degree. This article explores the trends shaping higher education’s future and what they mean for families and schools alike.

Big changes are coming to the ACT in 2025! With a shorter format, optional Science section, and revamped scoring, the "Enhanced ACT" promises a new testing experience. But is it better? We break down what’s new, how it impacts students, and why sticking with the old test—for now—might be smart.

Anxiety and executive functioning are deeply intertwined. Students with strong EF skills are more resilient to academic stress, while those who struggle to master EF skills often feel overwhelmed. Discover how key skills like planning and organization can help students manage anxiety, regain control, and achieve academic success with confidence.