About four in ten high schoolers report ongoing sadness or hopelessness. Here’s how parents can ease the pressure, listen well, and know when to get help.

Dual enrollment lets high schoolers earn college credit early, but the grades stick and credit policies vary. Here’s what to weigh before signing up.

Does the PSAT count? Do we need to prep? What happens with the score? Here's a grade-by-grade look at what the test actually means for your student.

Would you move to a town just because it ranked #1 in America? Probably not. So why let a college ranking decide where your student spends four years?

Summer is one of the few times students can pause and ask: what do I actually care about? Before you think about programs or internships, start there. The self-knowledge you build this summer shapes every decision that follows.

New on the blog: a look at what the research says about overparenting during the college application process — and why letting your teen handle more than you think they should might be the most helpful thing you do this season.

It’s college-decision season. You open your email or log into your college portal to check your admissions status. But if the message you opened begins with “We regret to inform you…,” it can feel like the air just got sucked out of the room, especially if this was your “first choice” college.

Learn how AP exams work, scoring policies, college credit rules, costs, and how strong AP scores can save tuition and boost applications.

Learn why likely colleges aren’t just backup schools. Discover how admission strategy, merit scholarships, GPA, and ROI impact long-term success.

Test-optional doesn’t mean test-irrelevant.
As more colleges adopt test-optional admissions, students and families are left wondering whether the SAT or ACT still matter. The answer depends on the student. For some, strong scores can reinforce academic readiness and support scholarship opportunities. For others, skipping tests may be the smarter move. This overview explains how test-optional policies actually work, when submitting scores can add value, and how to make a strategic, school-by-school decision based on a student’s strengths.

Course registration doesn’t require a perfect schedule — it requires a thoughtful one.
High school scheduling is about balance, growth, and choosing courses that challenge you without burning you out. From understanding graduation requirements to selecting the right level of rigor each year, this guide walks students through smart, intentional planning from freshman to senior year. The goal isn’t doing the most — it’s building a schedule that supports success, well-being, and long-term goals.

Film majors today aren’t just about holding a camera. From production and screenwriting to media studies, digital content, and entertainment marketing, colleges offer a wide range of paths for creative storytellers. This guide breaks down how film programs differ and how students can find the right fit.

Most students never see the School Profile, but colleges rely on it heavily when reviewing applications. This behind-the-scenes document explains your high school’s curriculum, grading system, and opportunities so admissions officers can evaluate your achievements in context. Here’s why it matters more than you think.

Honors programs offer the best of both worlds: the resources of a large university with the close-knit feel of a small college. Students get priority registration, smaller classes, enhanced advising, and enrichment opportunities that can shape their entire college experience. With options ranging from honors colleges at big public universities to competitive programs at private schools, honors pathways can give motivated students a strong academic edge.

College interviews come in several formats: 'informational', 'recommended', and 'evaluative.' Colleges offer interviews because they want to enroll students who will enhance their campus community and bring new ideas.

When preparing and submitting college applications, proper planning and preparation can streamline the entire process. Start by carefully reading all instructions before beginning any application. Avoid waiting until the last day before deadlines, as this increases the likelihood of rushing and making careless errors.

When high school seniors start tackling college applications, one of the most common and tricky questions they face is some version of “Why us?” It sounds simple, but many students stumble by plugging the same generic answer into every application.

College visits can be exhilarating and exhausting. Planning will help to reduce stress and increase enjoyment.