FAQs

What packages or services do you offer?

We offer comprehensive college counseling packages for students who want full-process support. Visit our Services page for details or contact us for a free introductory consultation.

How are sessions conducted?

Sessions are conducted virtually via Google Meet. We are happy to work with students across multiple time zones and provide flexible scheduling to accommodate school and activity commitments.

When should students start working with a college counselor?

First off, there is no “right” time to begin. Students typically will begin working with us in Grade 11, when college planning starts to take shape while others will start in Grade 12 for focused support on application strategy and task management, including essay writing. Some students prefer to start in Grade 9 or 10 for guidance on exploring interests, planning coursework and activities strategically. We meet each student where they are and tailor the plan to fit their goals and timeline.

How do application essays factor into admissions decisions?

Essays are a critical part of most applications. They give admissions officers a glimpse of your voice, personality, and values - the parts of you that transcripts and test scores can’t show. We guide students through brainstorming, drafting, and revising essays so they tell stories that feel both personal and purposeful.

What is the difference between Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision?

  • Early Action (EA): You apply early (usually by November) and receive an early response without a binding commitment.

  • Early Decision (ED): You apply early and agree to attend if admitted. This a binding commitment and so if admitted, any other applications submitted must be withdrawn.

  • Regular Decision (RD): The standard application timeline, typically with January deadlines and decisions in March or April.

We help families understand the strategy behind each option and decide what’s right for their goals and circumstances.

What standardized tests are required for U.S. college applications?

The majority of U.S. colleges and universities are test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required, however strong scores can still strengthen an application. We help students decide when to test and whether to submit scores at test-optional colleges. 

Do you support students applying to universities in Canada, Europe, or the United Kingdom?

Absolutely. We have guided many students applying through country or regional application systems such as UCAS, Studielink and OUAC, as well as direct university portals. We also provide support in writing the personal statement or letter of motivation for non-US applications.

Do you work with students attending international schools?

Yes! In fact, we specialize in supporting international students and third-culture kids currently studying outside the USA in either Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate curricula. 

What are your fees?

Fees vary depending on the level of support and services selected. Please reach out via the Contact page to schedule a short consultation and receive a personalized quote.

How do we get started?

The best first step is to schedule a free introductory meeting. This allows us to learn more about your goals and determine how we can best support you. After that, we’ll design a customized counseling plan and timeline tailored to your needs.