IvyWise Blog

If you have a passion for STEM, stepping outside the classroom curriculum and diving into STEM resources can deepen your understanding in ways traditional learning sometimes can’t — not to mention, it makes you a more competitive STEM applicant. This curated list of books, periodicals, podcasts, and documentaries is designed to introduce you to new ideas and perspectives, help you develop critical thinking skills, broaden your vocabulary, and perhaps even discover the specific area of STEM that truly captivates you.

The SAT may have changed a lot in recent years, including going digital-only for international students in 2023 and for the U.S. in 2024. But one thing hasn’t changed ­— a good SAT score will help you gain acceptance into the schools on your college list, even if they’re test-optional. Of course, standardized test scores are just one component of a strong college application, but they help provide a more comprehensive picture of your college readiness. If you’re preparing to take the SAT, keep reading to learn more about how the score is broken down, what’s considered a good score, and what the score range is for the middle 50% of enrolled students at some of the top universities in the U.S.

As the traditional spring semester winds down, a unique academic opportunity known as Maymester emerges at many colleges and universities across the U.S. This accelerated college term, typically held in May, offers students an opportunity to engage in intense study, explore new subjects, or even embark on exciting study abroad programs — all within a focused timeframe.

While the Common Application is the most widely used college application, it’s not the only option for students who are getting ready to apply to their best-fit colleges. The Coalition Application is an alternative that now counts more than 160 institutions as member colleges, including highly selective colleges and universities like Columbia, Harvard, and UPenn.

If you’re applying to college this fall, you can (and should!) be thinking about and getting a head start on your applications — even though most don’t open until mid-summer. Let’s look at the application timeline and why starting early is crucial. We also offer some college application tips to maximize your chances of success.

For nearly 25 years, I’ve made a career out of helping students navigate their road to college. From test prep to pre-college summer programs to admissions counseling, I have seen firsthand how the right support can transform uncertainty into confidence and turn dreams into acceptances.

While the college search process is an exciting time for your child, the financial aspect may leave you feeling stressed and anxious. It’s crucial to discuss college costs and budgeting openly and honestly with your college-bound child early in the process. This ensures everyone in the family is on the same page financially and helps your student feel confident and supported in their educational choices.

If you aspire to a top-flight college or university and are seeking financial aid and scholarships, you have probably come across an organization called QuestBridge. Like many others, you may wonder what it is, who it’s for, and how it works.

From Notre Dame’s leprechaun to Oregon’s duck, college mascots are more than just a figure on the sidelines — they are a treasured part of college life at many institutions. They embody the spirit, history, and identity of a college or university, rallying students, alumni, and fans alike under a shared banner. They evoke a sense of belonging and pride within the campus community and beyond.

As part of the medical school admissions process, students need to take the MCAT, which is nearly an eight-hour exam (including breaks) with four sections. The MCAT is an intensive exam, and students need to understand the content and formatting to prepare.