Test Prep

July 30, 2025

2025 College Admissions Secrets Revealed

It’s not just about perfect grades. This guide breaks down what top colleges actually prioritize—from academic rigor and storytelling essays to the overlooked data that reveals what matters most. Learn how to build a standout application with clarity, strategy, and confidence.

The Ultimate Checklist: Top 15 College Counseling Questions for Parents (2026)

Are you hiring a college admissions advisor? Discover the top college counseling questions for parents to ask about timelines, essays, costs, and strategy.

College Admissions Secrets: What Committees Value Most

College admissions can feel like deciphering a secret code. What exactly are admissions committees looking for when they review thousands of applicati...

July 10, 2025

College Admissions Strategies: Early Planning vs. Senior Year

Starting early in college planning—especially in grades 9–11—gives students more time to build strong academic, extracurricular, and personal profiles. This blog compares early vs. senior-year planning strategies, showing how timing shapes outcomes, reduces stress, and creates more competitive applications. Whether you're planning years ahead or need senior-year support, Dewey Smart helps you make the most of your timeline.

July 3, 2025

Top College Admissions Concerns for Students and Parents

The Weight of Choice: Navigating 4,000+ College OptionsOne of the most overwhelming aspects of the college admissions process is the sheer number of c...

July 1, 2025

The Evolution of College Admissions: Why Professional Counseling Has Become Essential

The College Admissions Arms Race: How We Got HereCollege admissions has transformed dramatically over the past two decades, evolving from a relatively...

May 9, 2025

Your Future, Your Fit: Choosing the Right College Outside the Ivies

Beyond Ivy League Acceptance Rates: Finding Your Best-Fit CollegeIn the high-stakes world of college admissions, the allure of Ivy League institutions...

April 17, 2025

Top Tips for Acing AP Exams (2026)

AP exams impact college admissions and credit. Learn proven strategies, scoring insights, and expert prep tactics to earn 4s and 5s in 2026.

April 10, 2025

Why AP Exams Matter - And How to Maximize Their Value

AP exams help students boost college applications, earn credit, and explore career-aligned subjects—even if their school doesn’t offer APs. Dewey Smart guides course selection, offers expert AP tutoring, and prepares students for success. Schedule a consultation today to get started.

January 15, 2025

Summer Programs: A Launchpad for College Admissions

Colleges love students who demonstrate passion, initiative, and a commitment to growth, and participating in a summer program is a great way to stand out. Whether you’re diving into STEM research, honing your artistic talents, or exploring leadership and business, these programs help you build valuable skills, explore career paths, and show colleges you’re serious about your future. Many programs have deadlines as early as January, February, or March, so now is the perfect time to start planning. Popular options include MIT LaunchX for STEM students, RISD Pre-College for artists, and Harvard’s Pre-College Program for aspiring leaders. At Dewey Smart, we specialize in guiding students toward the best-fit programs that align with their goals. From application support to crafting standout essays, our team ensures you make the most of every opportunity. Let us help you kickstart 2025 with confidence and purpose!

May 12, 2024

How to Handle Stress as a College Applicant

Senior year has a daunting reputation, and understandably so. As a student, you have worked your way up to a challenging course load. Apart from acade...

January 29, 2024

A Primer on Reddit: History, Terminology, and Admissions

Exploring the benefits and shortcomings of using Reddit to guide a student in their college application process