
The College Prep Corner
Clarity, strategy, and peace of mind for families planning the road to college.
Taking the SAT or ACT This Fall? How to Prep Smart Even With a Busy Schedule
Is your student taking the SAT or ACT this fall? Learn how to prep smart (even on a busy schedule), what to do after the first test, and how to build a personalized timeline that works.
From 1170 to 1500+: How Sofia Reached Her SAT Goals
From 1170 to 1530: See how Wagner Prep helped a student raise her SAT score by 360 points with personalized tutoring in math and reading.
College Admissions Success Story: How One Student Found Her Fit—and a Scholarship—at the University of Delaware
Learn how Wagner Prep helped this student build a 14-school college list, write standout essays, and earn a scholarship to the University of Delaware—all with just 11.5 hours of personalized advising.
SAT vs ACT: Which Test Is Right for You in 2025?
Wondering whether the SAT or ACT is the better fit for your teen in 2025? At Wagner Prep, we help families navigate this crucial decision every day — because choosing the right test early can reduce stress, maximize prep, and set students up for real progress. This blog breaks down the key differences between the latest versions of the SAT and ACT, explains who tends to do better on each, and offers practical next steps — including a quick quiz to help you decide and access to free full-length practice tests. If you’re ready to make a confident testing choice, this guide is the place to start.
Junior Year, College Planning Starts Now: 5 Smart Steps for Fall
Junior year is when college planning starts to take shape—and fall is the perfect time to lay the foundation. With the right focus, families can move forward with less stress and more confidence. From choosing a testing strategy to building up extracurriculars, these five smart steps can help students make real progress now and set themselves up for success senior year.
How College Admissions Support Works: Real Results from Wagner Prep’s Hourly Advising Model
Explore real case studies from Wagner Prep’s college advising program, including hours, outcomes, and what support actually looks like—from UC San Diego to the University of Delaware.
When Should Juniors Start SAT or ACT Prep? A Month-by-Month Guide for 2025-2026
Wondering when juniors should start SAT or ACT prep? Use Wagner Prep’s month-by-month guide, clear SAT & ACT paths for juniors, and real advice for building a plan that fits your student.
Understanding College Admissions Decision Types: What Parents Should Know
From Early Decision to Rolling Admission, understanding the differences can make or break your student’s application strategy. This quick guide helps families navigate the choices, timelines, and commitments — all in one place.
40 Prestigious National Competitions That Will Make Your College Application Stand Out
From STEM to the arts, national competitions can boost your college application — but only if you choose the right ones. This post helps you identify contests that match your interests, skills, and goals, so you're not just filling space on your resume, but telling a compelling story.
The Return of Standardized Testing: Why UPenn and Other Elite Universities Are Going Back to Test-Required Admissions
Standardized testing is making a comeback. With 7 of the top 10 universities now requiring SAT or ACT scores, students need to rethink their testing strategy. Learn why this shift is happening, how it affects admissions, and what you should do to stay ahead.
No-Loan Colleges: A Smart Strategy for a Debt-Free Education
Discover the power of no-loan colleges, where grants and scholarships replace student loans, ensuring graduates step into their careers debt-free. Learn how no-loan policies work, explore the benefits, and get actionable tips on selecting the best schools for your family’s financial future.
AP vs. IB
Both AP and IB offer challenging coursework, but they differ in structure, depth, and college recognition. AP allows flexibility with individual courses, while IB is a comprehensive program that emphasizes critical thinking and global perspectives. Which one aligns with your academic goals?
The Deferral Blueprint: Turning Setbacks Into Wins
Deferred from your dream college? It’s not the end—it’s an opportunity to regroup and shine. This blog offers a step-by-step guide to navigating a deferral, from reframing your mindset to executing a winning follow-up strategy. Turn this setback into a stepping stone toward success!