Wondering if your teen should take AP classes next year? This guide breaks down the benefits, challenges, and key considerations every parent should know—plus which AP courses are the most difficult and most impressive to college admissions officers.

Wondering if your student still needs to take the SAT? The answer depends — and things are changing fast. Here's an up-to-date guide on which colleges still require the SAT in 2025, where it's optional, and how test scores can still impact scholarships and admissions.

Is your teen feeling “checked out” on school? You’re not alone — and there are ways to help. In this post, we share five practical strategies parents can use to help teens rebuild motivation, reduce overwhelm, and re-engage with learning.

Most high schoolers are never taught how to study — they’re just expected to know. From time management to note-taking to spaced repetition, we break down the essential academic skills every student should master (but often don’t) — plus simple strategies parents can use to help build them.

College prep doesn’t start in 12th grade — it begins the moment your student enters high school. This guide breaks down what parents of 9th–12th graders need to know at each stage to help their child stay on track and stand out in the college admissions process.

Wondering how to help your high schooler prepare for the SAT? This guide breaks down exactly what parents can do — from free online resources to expert-backed study tips — to help students stay focused, confident, and ready for test day.

The last four weeks of school can make or break a student’s semester. From final exams to AP tests, it’s a high-stakes time—and students need more than just last-minute cramming. In this post, we share practical, parent-friendly strategies to help your teen stay focused, reduce stress, and finish the school year strong.

Executive function skills like time management, organization, and focus are essential for high schoolers to thrive academically and personally. Learn actionable tips for parents to support their teen's development and discover how Tutors & Friends can provide personalized coaching to help students excel.

Paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Learn about financial aid options like grants, scholarships, and loans, and discover tips for navigating the FAFSA and finding scholarship opportunities. This guide is here to help you and your teen plan for an affordable college experience.

The PSAT is more than a practice SAT—it’s the gateway to becoming a National Merit Scholar and unlocking scholarship opportunities. Learn how the PSAT works, the benefits of National Merit recognition, and how Tutors & Friends can help your student prepare to excel and achieve their goals.

Are you preparing for private high school admissions? Learn everything you need to know about the HSPT and ISEE, from test formats to preparation tips. Discover how Tutors & Friends can help your student excel and achieve their best score!

The new year is here, and it's the perfect time to set goals, build good habits, and create a plan for academic success in 2025! In our latest blog post, we’re sharing practical tips to help students reflect on their achievements, stay organized, and embrace a growth mindset. Whether it’s setting SMART goals or prioritizing consistency over perfection, these strategies will set the tone for a productive and rewarding year. Let’s make 2025 the best academic year yet!

What do Buddy the Elf, the Grinch, and Kevin McCallister have in common? Aside from being iconic holiday characters, they’re also secret academic gurus (sort of). From Buddy’s unique learning style to the Grinch’s time management skills and Kevin’s problem-solving genius, holiday classics are packed with unexpected lessons that can help you ace school. Let’s dive into the academic wisdom hidden in these festive favorites!

Finals season is here, and while the world is busy decking the halls, students are deep in their textbooks trying to finish the semester strong. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Inspired by the classic holiday carol, The 12 Days of Finals offers fun, practical tips to help you survive (and maybe even thrive) during finals week. From golden pens to mnemonic tricks, this guide will get you through the stress with a little humor and a lot of support. So grab your cocoa and let’s tackle finals together!

AP Precalculus is a challenging course, but with the right strategies, you can master it! In our latest blog post, we share tips on how to excel in AP Precalculus, including how to organize your notes, practice effectively, and use graphing technology to your advantage. Whether you’re tackling polynomial functions, trigonometry, or real-world modeling, these strategies will help you succeed. Don’t wait—start building your confidence in precalculus today!

Struggling to stay on top of AP European History? Our latest blog post breaks down the best strategies for mastering the material, acing the exam, and developing essential historical thinking skills. From note-taking tips and essay writing techniques to understanding key themes and practicing with DBQs, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re diving into the Renaissance or analyzing the causes of World War I, these practical tips will help you succeed. Read the full post for everything you need to excel in AP European History!

Final exams are just around the corner, but with the right strategies, you can tackle them with confidence! In our latest blog post, we share the Top 5 Study Strategies for Acing Final Exams, including tips on creating a study plan, using active recall, and maximizing tutoring sessions. Whether you’re reviewing tricky math problems or preparing for AP Chemistry, these strategies will help you stay organized, focused, and ready to succeed. Don’t forget to take breaks and prioritize your wellness—success isn’t just about studying hard; it’s about studying smart. Read the full post to learn how to finish the semester strong!

Thanksgiving break isn’t just a time for turkey and family gatherings—it’s also a golden opportunity for high school students to get ahead before final exams. By using this downtime wisely, you can review past material, tackle practice problems, and create a solid study plan to reduce stress and boost your confidence. Whether it’s organizing your notes, forming a study group, or getting extra help from Tutors & Friends, small steps during the break can lead to big success when finals roll around. Read on for our top tips to make this Thanksgiving break your most productive one yet!

Time management is a game-changer for high school students balancing homework, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. In this post, we explore why time management matters, share practical tools like the Pomodoro Technique and time blocking, and highlight key statistics that show how effective planning boosts academic success. Whether your student struggles with procrastination or just needs to organize their busy schedule, these tips and strategies can set them on the path to productivity and confidence.

Integrated Math 1 is a pivotal course that lays the groundwork for future math success. For parents of 8th or 9th graders, supporting your child's journey through this blend of algebra, geometry, and statistics can make all the difference. Discover essential tips for fostering daily practice, encouraging class participation, and knowing when extra support might be needed. Set your student up for a strong foundation and watch them thrive in math and beyond!