Category: Resources

How much do SAT/ACT scores matter for my college application?

Posted by: Kim on October 9th, 2023

In a test-optional environment, many families are unsure how much weight is given to test scores during the admissions process. Questions such as: should I, as a parent, encourage my student to pursue testing or, if my student is testing but isn’t getting the results they were hoping for, should they continue with further testing […]

How to Write a College Application Essay That Stands Out

Posted by: Kim on September 29th, 2023

The college essay is growing in significance these days, and this is an exciting opportunity for students. Essays are the place to highlight strengths, skills, imagination, and they give students an opportunity to inject a creative hand and make their applications come alive. Applicants can also demonstrate writing and communications skills and thereby prove their […]

Top 10 Reasons to Work with an Independent College Counselor

Posted by: Kim on September 15th, 2023

Over the last three years, the college admissions process has been shaped by significant changes in our world which is changing how students apply to college. At PrepMatters, we stay current and informed on both the substantial and the subtle changes in order to help students create a strong admissions plan as they embrace the […]

When to Start ACT and SAT Test Preparation: Expert Advice by Ned Johnson

Posted by: Kim on August 31st, 2023

Renowned French scientist Louis Pasteur discovered that the correct dose at the right time, enough to tax but not overwhelm, with enough time to build resistance and immunity, was the key to preparing the body against dangerous viruses. He once said, “Fortune favors the prepared mind.” The same sound logic applies to preparing for the […]

Test-blind? Test-optional? A breakdown of the six significant admissions policies 

Posted by: Kim on August 15th, 2023

As we enter the 2023-2024 college admission year, over 1800 colleges remain test-optional. In addition, more than 80 additional colleges and universities have adopted a test-blind or test-free admissions policy for first-year applicants. Some schools, however, still require testing. It is essential to understand the testing admissions policy for each school on your list so […]

What the College Board Isn’t Telling You About the Digital SAT

Posted by: Kim on July 23rd, 2023

The College Board just released details about its much-hyped digital SAT. It will debut here in the US in the spring of 2024, which means that the Class of 2025 will have a paper-and-pencil SAT in the fall, but a digital SAT in the spring. The College Board is telling students and colleges not to […]

4 Reasons for Test Preparation in a test-optional world

Posted by: Kim on July 20th, 2023

As a parent or student entering the college admissions process, you might need clarification on the choices before you. Commonly we get classic questions like “What test should I take? ACT or SAT?” And more recently, “Why should I take the ACT or SAT if it is test-optional?” Out of all the questions we receive, […]

College Essay FAQs: Parent Edition

Posted by: Kim on June 14th, 2023

Essays are becoming an increasingly important part of the college application process. Essays are an opportunity to demonstrate personal skills that can differentiate students from their peers with top grades and test scores. Knowing the importance of application essay can result in students and families feeling uneasy, so here are a few FAQs and answers […]

Maintaining 6 Degrees of Separation: A parent’s guide to college planning

Posted by: Kim on May 12th, 2023

Soon your teen will be at college, and you won’t be there to make decisions for them. In this case, the path to choosing a college is a perfect learning ground for them to gain skills in making informed decisions – and an opportunity for you to choose the appropriate degree of involvement in their […]

Dream School = More Competition for Your Student

Posted by: Kim on May 12th, 2023

“This is it. I’ve found my dream school.” As a parent, these words are likely golden in your ears. After many conversations about fit, countless road trips or flights to do in-person visits, virtual tours, and talks with admissions counselors, alums, current students, friends, and even family, your student has finally found their dream school. […]