Making the most of what’s around you
Most students preparing for US university applications focus on school grades, predicted grades, teacher references, and whatever extracurricular activities the school offers. What they overlook is that American admissions officers are far more interested in what you’ve done with your environment than which school you attended or which tutor you hired. Your city, wherever you […]
The Common App Additional Information Section
For the 2025-2026 application cycle, the Common App has introduced a significant change to the Additional Information section that every student applying to US universities needs to understand. These changes affect how you present important context about your application; getting them right can make a real difference. For first-year applicants, the Additional Information section has […]
Episode 89: Why Australia and New Zealand, with Stefan Watts
SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take?
Updated February 2026 Choosing between the SAT and ACT can feel overwhelming, especially when both tests are accepted by virtually every US university. The truth is, there’s no universally “better” test—only the test that’s better for you. Both exams have undergone significant changes recently. The SAT moved to a fully digital, adaptive format in 2024, […]
Last-Minute USA University Applications: A Crisis Management Guide
Don’t panic. Your USA university dreams aren’t over. If you’re a Year 13 student staring at approaching USA university deadlines with mounting anxiety, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of students realise late in the game that they want to pursue higher education in the United States, but feel overwhelmed by the complexity and timing […]
Interactive US Application Timeline
Your Essential Guide: 2026 US Admissions Timeline for Students Navigating the US university application process can feel like a marathon, not a sprint. Tick off each item as you complete it and track your progress! Section 1: Early Planning & Research: Year 10 and Year 11 May – August Research US Universities: Explore different types […]
Best US Universities for British (and British-educated) Students
The United States boasts thousands of universities, each offering a unique academic and cultural experience. For British students and parents, the sheer volume of choice can be daunting, and simply looking at general rankings often doesn’t tell the whole story. So, which US institutions truly shine for British students? This guide goes beyond the top […]
What Every UK Parent Needs to Know About US University Applications
Are you a UK parent dreaming of a US university education for your child? It’s an exciting prospect, picturing them thriving on a vibrant campus, exploring diverse subjects, and gaining a global perspective. However, the US application process is vastly different from the familiar UK’s UCAS system, often leaving parents feeling overwhelmed. Confusion over SATs/ACTs, […]
Understanding Need-Blind Admissions for International Students
For international students considering American universities, financing higher education often presents a significant challenge. However, a small number of US institutions operate under “need-blind” admissions policies for international applicants, which can substantially impact both the application process and accessibility of these universities. Need-blind admissions means that a university does not consider an applicant’s financial circumstances […]
Episode 88: Business in Asia
