Blog by Ivy Tutors Network

Discover the ins and outs of SAT super scoring. Learn how it works, which colleges accept it, and how it can impact your college admissions journey.

Discover how to get into McGill from the US, including admissions requirements and tips on who the environment is best suited for.

Ace the AP US History exam, or APUSH, with expert tips. Learn what to expect, how to study effectively, and what to bring for the digital AP exam.

Discover essential tips and strategies on how to get into Columbia from college admissions expert John Morganelli.

Junior year (11th grade) is critical to college planning success. Eliminate 5 weak spots our college admissions counselors see regularly and plan your way to acceptance at an Ivy League or other top tier college.

Each year of high school matters in your college prep journey. Learn 4 common mistakes 10th graders make and what to do instead.

This blog breaks down which AP exams are digital in 2025, the benefits of digital AP exams, and the best ways to prepare for digital AP exams.

Make your college admissions journey less stressful by starting early. We provide 4 typical college prep mistakes students make in 9th grade and what to do instead.

The ACT is one of two standardized tests used in college admissions. The makers of ACT are rolling out updates to the test in 2025 and 2026.

On July 15, 2024, the CEO of the ACT released upcoming changes to the ACT test. These changes will affect students taking the digital exam beginning in Spring of 2025 and students taking the in-person exam beginning September 2025.

The Brown University Video Portfolio is one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process.This blog will debunk common myths, clarify what Brown is actually looking for, and offer practical tips on how to create an effective and authentic video.

Digital exams are changing the landscape of standardized test taking. New tools, shorter exams, and updated content in some instances mean students need to learn different strategies to succeed compared to paper tests. We offer an overview of which tests are digital in 2025 and our top 6 tips for success.

Succeeding on a challenging standardized test like the SAT is a combination of knowledge and strategy. Use these tips and tricks to help you perform your best.

The Desmos calculator, the integrated graphing calculator on the SAT digital test platform, is an extremely useful tool for doing well on SAT math. We share why as well as provide examples of how to use it well from SAT expert, Katya Seberson.

Wondering how to get into Cornell? Discover insider tips from former director of admissions at Cornell, John Morganelli, Jr.

The ACT and SAT are both nationally recognized standardized tests that colleges use for admissions. Although many colleges have recently waived their requirements for standardized testing, the ACT and SAT are still an important component of your application.

The AP World History exam is one of the longest APs (about 3 hours and 15 minutes), and requires a large breadth of knowledge. Although the exam covers historical events around the globe from the years 1200 to 2001, World History is less focused on the memorization of specific details than on the understanding of broad historical patterns, such as environmental changes, social movements, and technological advancements. With preparation, tenacity, and the right kind of practice, students can easily overcome the challenges presented by the AP World History exam, and learn valuable writing and critical thinking skills in the process!

If you’re a high school student with a curious mind and a passion for research, spending your summer in a research program could be a great next step. Here’s a curated list of 10 high-quality research opportunities for ambitious teens in New York State.

Summer volunteer programs for high schoolers can provide excellent opportunities to develop leadership, community service skills, and a stronger application narrative. This blog serves as a guide to helping determine what to look for in a service or volunteer opportunity, as well as listing out several organizations to consider nationally and internationally, with a special focus on local programs in NYC and Atlanta.

College acceptance letters are what every applicant hopes for. Know what to do if you wish to accept, decline, or appeal your admissions decision. Part 2 of 2.

College acceptance letters are what every applicant hopes for. Know what to do if you wish to accept, decline, or appeal your admissions decision. Part 1 of 2.

The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is one of the most common standardized tests used by private schools in the United States for admissions decisions. The Upper ISEE, used for students applying to grades 9-12 at private high schools, has a complex scoring system that often confuses parents and students alike. This blog serves as a guide to understanding how it is scored and what constitutes a good score.

IB and AP courses are academically challenging and look good on college applications. In this blog we dive into the differences between the two and how to make the best choice for your goals.

AP (Advanced Placement) courses and tests can be a worthwhile investment for the college-bound, but not every student has access to them at their school. We look at what to do in that scenario and how AP classes factor into college admissions.

Career exploration activities provide students a way to explore careers, learn about different fields, and discover what excites them. When done successfully, they help students connect to their unique skills, interests, and values and land on a plan of action, typically a decision on a college major.

When introduced thoughtfully, tutoring offers personalized guidance to approach academic challenges with resilience and enthusiasm. This blog provides a deeper dive into when a tutor is appropriate for K-5 students and serves as a guide to parents.

What are supplemental essays? Our top tips for writing supplemental essays that move the needle on your admissions decisions.

This blog serves as your ultimate guide to letters of continued interest, showing you what you should and should not do to successfully use these letters as part of your college admissions process.

This guide aims to equip parents of gifted children with practical and effective strategies to support them in today’s academic world.

Choosing a private middle school after utilizing public grade schools is incredibly common. But if this is your first time applying to private school, there are a few things to consider. Private school admissions expert Linda Talton shares her expertise on private middle schools, with a focus on NYC and Atlanta, GA.

Discover how articulation agreements can help students from low-income backgrounds or with poor academic performance earn a bachelor’s degree and transition smoothly from community colleges to four-year universities.

This blog serves as a guide for how and when to take a gap year with the maximum personal benefit and minimal drawbacks.

The 5 P’s of college admissions aims to guide students through the college admissions process. Admissions expert John Morganelli explains how it works and why the BluePrint Plan is more effective.

The most recent admissions rates for the 8 Ivy League schools

The SHSAT is open to all current eight grade or first-time ninth grade students who live in New York City. This 3-hour test is the only criterion for gaining entry into one of the nine specialized public schools, which are known for their academic rigor, top teachers, great courses offerings, and exciting extra-curricular opportunities. SHSAT registration opens up in the Fall of each year. Here’s what you need to know to get the chance to attend one of these amazing public high schools!

Our guide shows you who to ask, how to ask, and how to make sure the letters arrive with your application and showcase the best of who you are.

As the college admissions cycle ramps up for the 2024-2025 school year, we want to make sure you have all the critical information you need at your fingertips. Check items off your application to-do list and never miss a deadline with our helpful guide.

This blog seeks to answer all your GPA-related questions, especially as they pertain to college admissions.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about being waitlisted, as well as how to improve your chances of getting off the waitlist and into the school of your dreams.

Woodward Academy is a top-rated private school in Atlanta, Georgia. Education consultant Linda Talton weighs in the best the school has to offer.

In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about rolling college admissions— including advantages and disadvantages, comparison with other admissions policies, and tips for applying.

In this blog post we will explore what college rejection means, the main reasons it occurs, tips to avoid rejection, and how to handle it if it happens.

This blog post will dive into the concept of deferral, why colleges might decide to hit the "pause" button on your application, and the smart moves you can make if you find yourself in this limbo.

One of the most common questions we receive at Ivy Tutors is, "How do I (or my child) get into a top college? For some students the key to a wow-worthy application is a research mentorship.

The college admissions process can cause students great stress, but nothing seems to bring on anxiety like the admissions essay. This blog uses our blueprint methodology to ensure your essay is a key component to acceptance into top tier colleges.

If you want to boost your chances of getting into an Ivy League university, your application must be impeccable. We break down how to ensure your application materials, including your essay, are acceptance-worthy using the PAGE method.

Located in one of the most liveable cities in the world, the University of Melbourne in Australia offers academic rigor and several programs of interest to international students.

This blog breaks down the differences between early action and early decision in college admissions, and who benefits from each one.

Dive into our ultimate AP Human Geography guide for the upcoming 2024 exam. We’ll cover all the basics of the exam, and provide ten practical study tips that will set you up for success.

The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is a standardized exam utilized by private parochial high schools as a component of the admission process for eighth-grade students.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know to be mentally and academically ready to perform successfully on the NY Regents Exams and earn your high school diploma.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about the Chemistry Regents exam in 2024.

For those thinking about a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, a STEM-focused school can set them on the path to success in higher education and a career.

Canada offers many opportunities for students interested in a foreign experience while still having a short flight back home. From the chance to live in a completely different culture (and we're not just talking about Quebec!) to the opportunity to study at some of the world's leading universities, studying abroad in Canada is a great idea, whether you're looking for just a semester or an entire degree.

For most international students the best option for high school is a private school. This article lists several of the best schools for international students and answers some of the most common questions international students and parents have about high school in New York.

The adaptive SAT is part of the newly updated digital-only SAT. It is composed of two math modules and 2 combined reading and writing modules and is shorter than the former paper version.

Sydney is making a name for itself as one of the best universities in the world, and one that offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees at a significant savings to the US.

The Living Environment Regents Exam is a chance for students to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts in life science.

Edinburgh is a hidden gem for many Americans looking to go abroad: its educational system is a more similar fit to the US compared to the intense specialization expected at many other European universities. It also had a generous admissions policy for North Americans.

The University of Toronto is one of the highest ranked universities in Canada. With its (comparatively) easy application process, it offers an excellent opportunity for US students with exemplary grades and test scores.

Geometry Regents test your comprehension of key concepts and mathematical proofs. Though the material is covered in school classes, many students approach Geometry Regents with a certain amount of apprehension. It’s important to remember that Regents tests, while stressful, are doable. Ivy Tutors can help you build skills that will make test day a breeze. Here’s what you need to know to succeed on your Geometry Regents exam.

As more and more people apply to a select few schools, EA/ED acceptance season can feel a lot more like rejection season. If you’re overwhelmed by college application results, you’re not alone. The good news is that there are many paths to finding the right college, and there are still many great college options on the horizon. Remember, you will get through this! And Ivy Tutors can help.

If you are currently a student of a public high school in New York, then you’ll have to pass a math Regents exam in order to graduate. So if you’re taking the Algebra 2 Regents test, this will be your go-to guide! IvyTutors has put together a comprehensive list of tips to help you succeed. Read on to get a grasp of what the topics the test covers, how it’s scored, its format, how to prepare, and more.

Charter schools are independently operated, public schools founded by educators, community groups, or private organizations. They are so named because they operate under a ‘charter’, which is a specialized term - essentially - meaning a performance-based contract.

It was the fall of our daughter’s senior year of high school, when it seemed that our whole lives hung on a frightening precedent of college audition season.

The National Merit Scholarship is a scholarship program that recognizes outstanding academic achievement combined with exceptional performance on the PSAT, or Pre-SAT.

The ACT is made up of a composite score and four section scores: English, Math, Reading and Science. The composite score is calculated as the average of your four section scores. In this article, we’ll discuss how to read and interpret your scores, as well as what constitutes a good score on each section and what makes for an impressive composite score.

The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) includes various math topics that evaluate a student's quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills. The math section involves algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and data analysis. Familiarity with these key math concepts is crucial to excel on the SHSAT.

The best performing arts schools are ones that nurture creativity in their students, giving them the ability to not only excel in their desired art form, but in any other sector of the work force, if they so choose.

The Walker School prides itself on the balance of academics and the whole child experience. The school focused on the individual needs of all students. Students and families form strong connections with administrators and teachers, which leads to not only academic success but also, to becoming well rounded citizens of the world. Valuing thoughtfulness and tradition, the school is distinguished by their three language requirement, which really sets them apart from other schools.

The Test for Admission to Catholic High Schools, or TACHS, is the exam used for admission to the Catholic High Schools of New York. It is given once a year in November. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the TACHS exam and how best to prepare for it!

The University of Birmingham is one of the largest universities in the UK, offering a truly phenomenal education at one of the original Red Brick universities. Birmingham is a member of the Russell Group, an elite cadre of research universities in the UK, and has a wide-ranging alumni network. Despite all that, for many Americans admission to the University of Birmingham is much more accessible than other peer institutions. It is based almost solely on academic performance, and does not require the fives on AP tests that Oxbridge does for many fields. Additionally, both the University itself and Birmingham in general are much more affordable than other highly ranked options.

The London School of Economics and Political Science, better known as the London School of Economics or LSE, is among the most renowned universities for social sciences in the world. Whether you aspire to become a world leader, a bank executive, head of an NGO, or an academic thought leader, graduating from LSE will undoubtedly enhance your abilities and opportunities. With a three-year undergraduate degree structure (for most fields) and an alumni network envied by institutions worldwide, there are plenty of reasons to choose LSE for your studies.

The SHSAT Discovery Program is a summer course for students from low-income households who scored just below the cut-off scores on the SHSAT. These 3-5 week programs give students the opportunity to make up for their missing points and show that they are prepared for the academic rigors of the Specialized High Schools.

How should you prepare to ace the ACT Reading section? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know, including 11 tips, to earn a top score!

As a parent or educator, one of your primary goals is to help your students learn effectively. However, not all students are able to learn effectively, especially when they are stressed or anxious. Stress can greatly impact a student’s ability to learn, as it hinders their access to higher functioning parts of their brain. In order to facilitate better learning in such students, it is important to find ways to lower their stress levels. One tool that has been found to be effective in this is active listening.

Interviews can be one of the most important pieces of the admission process. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know private school interviews, and how you and your child can take advantage of this opportunity to engage directly with the schools you are applying to.

The Regents Exams are statewide standardized tests in core high school subjects. The English Language Arts (ELA) exam tests students on the key skills of reading comprehension, textual analysis, and argument-based writing in order to assess their readiness for college and a professional career. The exam is required of all students enrolled in high schools in the state of New York.

When it comes to world universities, Oxford is a monolith.  It’s older than the Aztec Empire, older than the Black Death, and still one of the most prestigious universities in the world.  Luckily, they are also very interested in American students, especially at the undergraduate level.

Founded in 1993, Beacon is a small, alternative high school that has since grown to become one of the most highly regarded public schools in the city. However, it is also increasingly competitive to get into. In this article, we'll tell you why Beacon is great and what you need to do to maximize you chances of admission.

Second only to Oxford in age in the English-speaking world, Cambridge University is widely considered to be one of the best universities in the world.  Created when a group of professors left Oxford out of frustration, Cambridge has shaped the world’s intellectual progress for nearly 800 years!

It’s hard to imagine any place that is more emblematic of Scotland than St. Andrews. Nestled between the North Sea and some of the world’s greatest golf courses, the University is one of the oldest in the English-speaking world, and one of the most highly regarded. The alma mater of the Prince and Princess of Wales, the University of St. Andrews is one of the most popular universities for American students to earn a degree overseas

Due to increased competition and opaque entrance requirements at top US universities, more and more American students are looking overseas to pursue their education. In this article, we'll answer all your pressing questions about studying abroad, including how to increase your chances of admission at a foreign university.

This year’s public school admissions season presented several unique challenges. In this article, we’ll let you know the key insights from this year’s admissions results, as well as some tips and strategies to stay ahead of the game.

Want to learn more about public high school in NYC? Overwhelmed by the options or confused by how it works? Check out this article for an overview of the admissions process and how you can prepare for a successful outcome!

How should you prepare to ace the ACT English section? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know, including over 16 tips, to earn a top score!

The ACT Science section is the 4th section of the ACT. This section focuses on testing skills such as data interpretation, the ability to draw conclusions, and a general understanding of the scientific process. With a short timeframe and an often punishing curve, the ACT science can be a tricky test to master, but guided practice and an understanding of the structure of the test can allow anyone to achieve their desired score in this section.

Independent school expert Linda Talton answers all our questions about the most recent admissions cycle, which proved to be particularly competitive for high school applicants. What happened, what factors were involved, and how can we prepare to ensure the best outcomes for our students?

NYC Tutoring Company expands geographic footprint and doubles down on providing best-in-class test prep through acquisition of Atlanta-based Test Prep Company

Taking the ACT but worried about the math? In this article, we'll tell you everything you need know about the ACT math section, as well as our top tips for getting a TOP score!

Not sure how to interpret your PSAT scores? Check out this article for a full explanation of what your PSAT scores really mean!

If you are applying to independent schools, the weeks when you receive your decision letters will serve as the culmination of all of the mental, physical, and emotional labor that you have invested in the admission process thus far. In this article, we'll tell you about the different types of letters you may receive and how navigate this exciting time!

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test sponsored by both the College Board, who write and administer it, and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Here's what you need to know!

In 2022, the College Board announced that they will be transitioning the SAT to an exclusively digital exam. This means that students will take the exam on the computer instead of a paper test. In this article, we'll tell you what's changing on the new SAT and how students can best prepare for it.

If you're looking for information about the SAT scores, or are wondering how your own scores stack up against those of other test takers, you've come to the right place. The following guide is designed to give you all of the information you need about the SAT and its scoring process.

SAT Math may seem daunting, but it’s very possible to score well. Understanding what’s on the test, how it works, and what you need to know are the first steps to success. Here’s our guide for everything you will need to know to achieve your goals on the Math sections of the SAT.

The SAT is an entrance exam issued by the College Board, and is the test used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The purpose of the SAT is to measure a student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with a shared data point to compare applicants. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about the SAT, including how best to prepare for it!

How exactly is the SSAT scored? Find out in this SSAT Scoring Guide!

As a parent, we desperately want the best for our children’s future. So when it comes to their education, it’s normal to focus heavily on future outcomes + goals. While this comes from a well-intentioned and loving place, this approach is missing one of the most important ingredients of a ripe learning environment: mindfulness.

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is a private school admissions test. It is administered at three levels: elementary, middle and upper. In this article, we'll tell you absolutely everything you need to know about the SSAT and how to study for it.

Private school in NYC is expensive. The good news: not only does financial aid at independent schools exist, but it is also accessible to about 25 to 30 percent of families at most schools you will be applying to. In this article, we’ve outlined the essential information you need to know about private school financial aid in order to hep you make an informed decision about your child’s educational future.

Hunter College High School is one of the top-ranked public high schools in the United States. In this article, we will give you a brief overview of the school, an outline of the requirements for admission and the admissions process, and tips for getting in.

Hunter College High School offers an exceptional academic opportunity to New York City students. The admission process for eligible students includes an entrance exam. In this article, we'll tell everything you need to know about the exam and how best to prepare for it.

In addition to strong academics, Catholic high schools in New York offer students religious education and experiences, opportunities for service, and college coursework through partnerships with local Catholic universities. There are currently 43 Catholic high schools in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island under the Archdiocese of New York, and 15 under the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens. Here are the top-rated ones!

The SHSAT is the doorway to getting into Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, Brooklyn Tech and 5 other fantastic, free NYC public schools!

Catholic schools come in many shapes and sizes. In this article, we will introduce you to the different types of Catholic schools, how they differ from each other, and what you need to know to apply.

For many parents, applying to private school can be a daunting process. If your child is preschool-aged and older, admissions can seem even more taxing on top of an already busy school schedule. The most important step you can take to destress the admissions process is to plan ahead and stay organized. With that in mind, take the first step by reviewing this list of everything you need to know about private school admissions.

Much dreaded and oft misunderstood, the college essay is an essential component of your admissions package – and for good reason. The college essay (or personal statement) is your opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee in your own voice. It allows you to communicate what is most important and integral to YOU, and in doing so, what makes you different from the other applicants.

New York City has 9 specialized public high schools designed to serve students who excel in academics and/or the arts. Due to their specialized nature, these high schools have selective admissions processes that involve either an admissions test, an artistic portfolio, or audition. If you’re currently in middle school and live in NYC, it’s a great time to start thinking ahead about your high school plans, and whether applying to one of these specialized high schools makes sense for you.

SHSAT ELA practice can be daunting. We know what you’re thinking. How can I possibly read and understand all these complex passages with words I’ve never seen before – under a time limit too! While the SHSAT is certainly difficult, it’s not impossible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to practice and prepare yourself for the ELA section of SHSAT.

Universities now base over 50% of admissions on the application essays. We’ll help you crack the code.

A productive summer will pay dividends in your personal, professional, and academic development. This guide is tailored specifically for you to maximize your summer. After all, keeping your mind engaged is critical to avoid "summer slide." Here's some advice on how to evaluate and choose the best summer opportunity for you...

You might be worried if you fail an AP exam (where failing is receiving a score less than 3), but don’t worry! Passing an AP exam has many benefits: you may receive college credit, it may help you win an AP Scholars award, and it may add to a larger picture of your academic success that can help you get into colleges. Failing an AP exam won’t grant you these advantages, but doesn’t carry any additional weight beyond that. You can certainly still get into colleges, however, you may need to take additional courses once you attend university than you would have with a passing AP score. It’s also worth noting that a failing AP score is evidence that you likely have not grasped the course material, and is an opportunity for you to rethink your study habits.

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is the exam used by most private schools to evaluate candidates for admission. Here's what you need to know...

Thinking about independent schools, boarding schools, or switching from one private school to another? You need to think about and prepare for the SSAT or ISEE.

The AP English Language and Composition exam, offered each year in May by the College Board, test students ability to critically analyze texts and write cogent, evidence-based essays in which they present claims and arguments. The texts studied for AP Lang are non-fiction, whereas those for the AP Literature exam are fictional. AP Lang is rigorous and demanding, requiring both strong critical reading and essay-writing skills. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the AP Lang exam, and the best tips and strategies for cruising to a 5!

This guide offers expert AP Chemistry tutoring strategies, advanced study tips, and targeted prep to help top students earn a 5 succeed on the exam.

It can be difficult to keep track of all the moving parts and deadlines required for the public high school admissions process. Fortunately, we’re here to help! Ivy Tutors Network has put together a handy timeline to help you know what happens when. We’ve also included some suggestion for what you can do now to start preparing. Enjoy!

LaGuardia’s High School’s reputation precedes it: not only is it one of NYC’s 9 specialized high schools, it is also THE “Fame School.” Founded in 1936, LaGuardia boasts many notable artists and performers among its alumni, including Nicki Minaj, Ansel Elgort, Timothée Chalamet, and Jennifer Anniston. LaGuardia is truly unique in offering its students a first-rate high school education along with conservatory-style arts programs, not to mention the fact that it’s completely free to attend! Intrigued? Here’s what you need to know about LaGuardia and its application process.

Learn how to study for the AP Biology exam so that you know the material well enough to earn a top score.

Clocking in at 3 hours, the AP Physics 1 Exam is a difficult test that requires a mastery of physics concepts as well as a strong baseline understanding of algebra and trigonometry. It covers the scientific principles outlined in the AP Physics 1 course units, and expects students to use algebra to solve problems related to Newtonian mechanics, energy, and several other topics. With practice, however, even the most difficult topics become manageable, and with the right preparation, the exam can be easily conquered for a great score!

Many students are unsure whether they should take the AP Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC exam. On the one hand, the AP Calculus BC exam can help you get more course credit going into college if you get a high score. On the other hand, the AP Calculus BC exam covers more material than the AB exam, and may be harder to get a high score on. So, just how hard is the AP Calculus BC exam? This guide will help you consider all the relevant factors when deciding which test to take.

With AP tests coming up this spring, many students are concerned about how best to prepare for exam day. Whether or not you are currently taking a calculus class at school, it is important to familiarize yourself with the specifics of the AP test: what content is covered, how it is formatted, and what approaches can help optimize your score. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to go into test day with confidence.

Staten Island Technical High School (SITHS) is a top-rated public magnet high school in NYC, and one of the 9 specialized high schools. For approximately 1330 students, Staten Island Tech offers a completely free college-preparatory education, including specialized courses in science and engineering. With amazing academics, a diverse student body, and exciting extracurriculars, SITHS is truly unique. Want to apply? Here’s what you need to know…

AP US Government and Politics is not only a manageable AP class, but also a formative one, giving students insight into the functioning of our government and political system. AP Gov is an excellent way to earn AP credit while also fulfilling many high schools’ civics requirements. Though generally considered an easier AP class, the questions asked on the exam are known to be tricky. Preparing the test requires specific and efficient studying tactics, as well as a familiarity with particularities of the questions themselves. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to achieve a great score on the AP Gov exam!

Founded in 2002, Queens High School for the Sciences is one of the 3 newer specialized high schools located on City College campuses. With small class sizes, a diverse student body, and devoted faculty, Queens High School provides both an intimate and intellectually rigorous educational experience. It’s also completely free to attend, making it a highly sought after option for NYC families. Want to apply? Here’s what you need to know…

The High School for Math, Science and Engineering is one of NYC’s 9 specialized high schools. Public and completely free to attend, HSMSE provides students with a first class education in the STEM fields, in addition to a rigorous and well rounded general academic program. The faculty are famous for their quality and dedication to teaching, and the student body (approximately 500) is one of the most diverse in the city, representing all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. In this article, we’ll tell you more about what makes HSMSE special, and what you need to know to get the chance to attend…

The AP Psychology exam is one of the shortest AP exams (just two hours long), but can be a challenging test for students, as it contains highly specific theory and has a strong emphasis on vocabulary. Unlike other exams, the AP Psychology exam relies less on intuition and fluency, and more on specific content that students will need to memorize and recognize. Fortunately, with a little bit of preparation, the AP Psychology exam can be easily tackled for a great score.

The High School of American Studies (HSAS), founded in 2002, is one of the newer specialized high schools, all of which require the SHSAT (Specialized High School Admissions Test) for admission. HSAS has a special emphasis on history, and with only 400 students, is also smaller than most of the specialized high schools. HSAS provides an amazing opportunity for students to attend a small, completely free high school with a unique curriculum focus. Here’s what you need to know to apply!

Many students are daunted by the long passages and tricky questions on the reading section of the SAT, and we totally get it! The reading comprehension is meant to be challenging, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you understand how it’s designed and what strategies you need to approach it. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 5 essential things everyone should know about the SAT reading section. If you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to put your best foot forward on test day!

Brooklyn Latin High School, more commonly known as Brooklyn Latin, has many unique features that differentiate it from the other specialized high schools. In this article, we’ll tell you what makes Brooklyn Latin special, and what you need to know to get the chance to attend.

Brooklyn Tech is the largest of the NYC specialized high schools, with a particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Here's what you need to know to apply...

Bronx Science is one of the 8 specialized high schools of New York City for which you have to take the SHSAT (specialized high school admissions test). Bronx Science has produced eight Nobel Prize-winning alumni, more than any other secondary school in the country. Here's what you need to know about the admissions process...

Stuyvesant is a top rated, public high school in lower Manhattan, considered by many to be the “crown jewel” of the NYC public school system. With over 3000 students, Stuyvesant is known for its rigorous academics, unique course offerings, and exciting extracurriculars. It attracts both top students and top teachers. Here's what you need to know to get the chance to attend this amazing school...

With over 3,000 colleges and universities in the US, coming up with a list of schools can be a daunting task. How do I find the one that’s right for me? Here are some suggestions for ways to create the perfect college list – for YOU!

When it comes to preparing for the SHSAT, there’s a lot more than reviewing reading comprehension and math skills.

The SHSAT is offered just once a year for 8th or 9th graders in the Fall/Winter. Because you can only take the exam once, it’s absolutely essential to make sure everything runs smoothly. Based on the most common questions we receive from our students, here are the most important things you need to know going into SHSAT Test Day.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, many schools have remained test-optional, leaving students wondering whether or not it is worth their time and energy to prepare for an exam that is not, strictly speaking, necessary. The question remains: should I take the SAT or ACT? The answer depends on the individual, but for many students, it’s “yes.”

High school admissions expert Katie Miller gives us the do's and don'ts for creating a strong and balanced list...

Executive functioning is the umbrella term for the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks at the same time. These skills are instinctive to some, but not at all for others. The good news is that our executive functioning is extremely malleable, and can be easily improved with practice.

Ivy Tutors Network’s founder, Lisa Speransky, recently sat down for an information-packed webinar with admissions experts, Katie Miller and Chantal Aflalo. The subject was “everything you need to know about New York City high school admissions.” Here’s what we learned...

As we near the start of the school year, there remain a number of questions around how public high school admissions will operate this fall. Here are some steps you can take right now to ensure your child is in a strong position going into this year.

We're here to take the anxiety out of your test prep journey. One way to ensure a stress-free SHSAT experience is to have a very strong command over the math formulas you'll need to know in order to solve the 57 math questions. We think that while you're practicing, you'll need this trusty cheat sheet!

Here are some tips to high school students who are considering a career in medicine, advice about initially making the decision to pursue medicine, and how to develop the skills necessary to be a medical student.

How do you balance having a fun-filled, stress-free summer with knowing that you’ll be prepared for 9th grade come September? Here are 5 things every rising 9th grader can try to incorporate into their summer.

Junior year may sound intimidating, but there are steps all students can take to alleviate some of the anticipated anxiety and demands.

Those months preceding your senior year of high school are in many ways part of the final stretch of all your hard work. To alleviate some of the workload and stress heading into the school year and applications season, there are several actions you can take over the summer to relieve some of the workloads and set yourself up for success.

As an Ivy tutor, Tran leverages her craft of writing and storytelling to support students in their studies.So many young people dream of writing a book. What advice do you have for young people? It’s quite simple: Read. Then, write.

Play-based learning is a way to make learning engaging, fun, and creative for your little learner!

The key to creating the most compelling college application is to “thread a theme.” Not only does it sound poetic, it also works!

Colleges admissions officers are increasingly interested in accepting students who are 'mini experts.' Let's take a look at what that means.

Nervous about the 'free response prompt' on AP Lit? Don't be. We broke it down into manageable steps!

Pivot is one of the themes of 2020. But how has the College Admissions process pivoted this year?

Is your child's work disorganized? Are you tired of being the 'homework warden'? We understand! At our recent webinar, we discussed everything from how to foster motivation around schoolwork to developing good organization habits with Sue Groner and Shakir Stephen.

With the ongoing pandemic, the College Board has given schools three ways to administer their upcoming spring AP exams. Be sure to talk to your AP Coordinator to find out how your school is planning to conduct their exams.

Identifying your learning style can make you more efficient with your SAT and ACT test prep, so you can focus on the subject matter and strategies that will raise your score.

Mastering this common writing assignment will give you a leg up in high school and college English classes - and many other subjects.

We're an Award-Winning Tutoring Service!

There has never been a more important time for us to consider the needs of others.

Often seen as extra work, supplements are essential to your applications - and can even help you select the right school.

When it comes to excelling at math, some of the simplest steps are most effective - and often overlooked.

Learning why this formula “works” can help you understand math at a deeper level, building your skills for school and tests.

It can be hard to figure out what exactly colleges are looking for when considering applicants.

The key to beating the clock on the SAT and ACT Math sections is knowing what to expect.

For something that’s supposed to be simple and convenient, testing at-home can be surprisingly stressful.

Everyone feels stressed out about a test sometimes; it’s normal to be concerned when an outcome is unknown.

By mastering both the “what” and “how” of ACT and SAT prep, you’ll maximize your chances of receiving your best score.

Part one of the essential guide to eliminating errors that trip up many test-takers.

Every day, a new development seems to squeeze testing out of the college admissions process.

By now, I am sure you’ve figured out the importance of a daily schedule.

Having trouble working with your child on their essay? We understand how you’re feeling.

With all of the changes caused by the pandemic, we could all use a bit of good news.

Try this: Name five things in your space right now. Breathe mindfully three times. Feel your feet. Doing better?

Do you ever stare out of the window in physics class, wondering what it will be like to go to college and never have to take science again? Or ...

You’ve mastered washing your hands to your favorite song twice. You’ve caught up on all your secret-pleasure YouTube dives and Netflix shows.

You’ve mastered washing your hands to your favorite song twice. You’ve caught up on all your secret-pleasure YouTube dives and Netflix shows.

Let's start with a dad joke.

We’ve been in the game for over 16 years, working with students just like you. Almost all students face time pressure...

“Help me! Vanderbilt came to my school and said they like social entrepreneurship. My essay’s about my family dinner. Should I change my essay?”

At last, it’s Summer!

What's the difference? Which one is better for me? Let's break it down.

College essay: two words that strike fear in the minds of high schoolers across the nation. But they don’t have to.

Feel like you're losing the battle over screen time? Some practical tips win the war from one parent to another.

Let's talk about Middle School Math.