Choosing between the ACT and SAT is one of the most common (and confusing) questions students face during the college admissions process. The good news? All U.S. colleges accept both exams equally.  One test is not “better” than the other across the board—the right choice depends on a student’s strengths, testing style, and comfort level. Below is a breakdown of the key differences, advantages, and decision-making strategies to help students choose wisely. 1.) What Do the ACT

Choosing the right college isn’t just about rankings or prestige—it’s about fit. Effective college research helps you move beyond surface-level impressions and make informed decisions that align with your academic goals, personal values, and future plans. Here’s how to do it well (without getting overwhelmed). 1. Start With Your Priorities Before diving into college websites, get clear on what matters most to you. Are you focused on a specific major? Class size? Location? Cos

When colleges review applications, they look beyond GPA. One of the most important factors in admissions decisions is academic rigor : the level of challenge in a student’s high school course load. Simply put, colleges want to see that students push themselves academically , especially in ways that prepare them for their intended major. Here’s what academic rigor really means and how it affects college admissions decisions. What Is Academic Rigor? Academic rigor refers to the

The start of a new year always brings fresh energy—new classes, new goals, and new possibilities. For high school students, especially those in 9th, 10th, and 11th grade, this moment is more than just a reset. It's a powerful opportunity to get ahead in the college admissions journey— before  stress, confusion, and missed opportunities creep in.   Too often, students (and families) believe college admissions only matter junior year or even senior year. In reality, the stronge

If you’ve just opened a decision letter that says “Deferred,” you’re probably feeling a confusing mix of disappointment, anxiety, and uncertainty. It’s not a yes, but it’s not a no either. And that gray space can feel heavier than a rejection. Let’s start with the most important truth: A deferral is not the end of the road. It is  a signal that the college saw enough strength in your application to keep you in consideration. How you respond matters. First: What a Deferral Act

On January 7 th , we will kick off our first cohort session of 2026 . These cohorts – which typically consist of 4-6 students – are an excellent way for high school freshman, sophomores, and juniors to get a jump on the college admissions process. Here are some additional details to review as you consider joining us: What are Foundry Cohorts?  Small group (5-10 students/parents) sessions that will meet once per week for 1.5 hours over a six-week block of time. Kenny (Founder

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As we head into late January, our current high school seniors are now consistently hearing back from the colleges where they have...