College Admissions Blog Posts

How to Get Accepted by Stanford and Ivy League Universities in 2026 (Webinar)

By Solomon Team / 08/12/2026

Updated: 08/12/2026 Being accepted by Stanford or an Ivy League University is becoming more and more difficult every year. Admission rates at these top colleges have collapsed by on average 50%. Watch the webinar to learn how to navigate the Stanford and Ivy League admissions process, position your application, and market your candidacy. Read below for an…

College Essay Structure – Outlines, Templates, and Narrative Frameworks

By Lida Roman / 08/07/2026

Key Takeaways:A strong college essay is not just well-written but well-structured. Most students know what they want to say but struggle to organize it into a compelling narrative. This guide provides concrete essay outlines, templates, and narrative frameworks that any student can use to build a standout personal statement. Whether you are starting from scratch…

College Essay Prompts and Topic Ideas – How to Choose What to Write About

By Hakim Walker / 07/31/2026

Key Takeaways:College essays are undoubtedly one of the most important components of the college application. Virtually every college requires its applicants to write at least one essay for their application, and for good reason. Unfortunately, many students report that writing their college essays is the most daunting and challenging part of the entire application process.…

What’s a Good SAT/ACT Score for Applying to College?

By Solomon Team / 07/21/2026

In addition to the usual application materials, like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays, students are often asked to submit standardized test scores from either the SAT or ACT exam when applying to college. Top schools do not recommend one test over the other; students are allowed to submit whichever one they prefer. SAT/ACT scores…

A Veteran’s Guide to College and Graduate School

By Solomon Team / 07/14/2026

How to Build Your Next Chapter After Military Service Transitioning from military service to civilian life often brings important decisions about the future. For many veterans, higher education can provide an opportunity to build on the skills, experiences, and leadership developed during their service while preparing for new personal and professional goals. Whether you are…

Navigating Legacy Admissions

By Maura Connors / 07/10/2026

In the realm of higher education, the legacy admissions debate encapsulates a myriad of complexities that extend beyond mere familial ties and institutional traditions. It delves into broader issues of socioeconomic disparity, racial inequity, and meritocracy. As we dig deeper into this contentious topic, it becomes increasingly evident that the stakes are high, and the…

How to Show Demonstrated Interest

By Anoi Hindle / 06/19/2026

The importance of demonstrated interest in college admissions is currently under debate. Some colleges and universities put more weight on demonstrated interest than others, with some eliminating it altogether. Given the complex admissions environment, it is essential, as a prospective applicant, to plan and prepare for the range of colleges to which you will apply,…

How early should I start preparing my child for the Ivy League?

By Philana Tenhoff / 06/12/2026

There is no set age to prepare your child for the Ivy League or Ivy-like schools. However, there are many habits we can foster from a young age. Academic prowess, a high level of personal development, along with a strategic approach are all necessary while positioning your child to apply to an Ivy League or…

Juniors – Plan Now, Relax Later

By Grace Chee / 06/05/2026

Key Takeaways: Junior year is an important time during a students’ high school career, but it can also be a busy and demanding season because they’ll be juggling rigorous coursework with early college preparation. Students should create a testing timeline for the SAT or ACT and begin preparing for these standardized exams. Juniors should also…

How to Improve Your ACT Score: Updated for 2026

By Solomon Team / 05/22/2026

Many students take the ACT for the first time during junior year, often in the winter or spring. It is common not to reach your target score on the first attempt, and many students improve after retaking the test with a more focused preparation plan. Rather than taking the ACT repeatedly without a strategy, students…