The Conversation More Families Are Having I’ve met with two families in the past few weeks who shared a similar experience. Both had been told by another test prep company that their students were “behind” and should already be planning to take the August SAT. So I asked a couple of...

PSAT Scores Are Coming: Now What? PSAT testing has already begun at many schools, and scores will start rolling in as early as October 23rd. Whether you’re a sophomore seeing the PSAT for the first time or a junior aiming for National Merit, here’s what to do once your scores come...

Building a thoughtful college list—one that balances aspiration with realism—can save stress, increase options, and even reduce costs.

In the age of artificial intelligence, students have unprecedented access to tools that can assist with their academic work. While these tools offer numerous benefits, a growing concern is emerging: students are increasingly relying on AI to complete assignments, leading to a decline...

A New Era in College Admissions? If you’re a parent preparing your teen for college—or a consultant guiding families through the application maze—there’s a new trend you need to watch: merit-based college admissions. The spotlight is on the University of Austin (UATX), a...

College applications are a stressful and exciting time for students and their families. Parents often focus on grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and crafting the perfect personal statement. However, one critical factor is often overlooked—choosing the...

Test-optional is fading in college admissions. For the past few years, test-optional policies have dominated college admissions. In response to COVID-19 and long-standing concerns about standardized testing fairness, many colleges eliminated SAT and ACT requirements. However, a...

The college admissions landscape is evolving rapidly, and families with high school students—especially in the Class of 2026 and 2027—need to stay ahead of the curve. With major college admissions updates in 2025, including new testing policies, application trends, and essay...

The college admissions landscape is undergoing significant changes in 2025, shaped by evolving institutional priorities, new legal precedents, and shifting student needs. Staying informed about these trends is essential for students and families preparing for the competitive...