Elite Prep

08/27/2026

“I don't know what to write about.” It's one of the most common problems students face when they begin their college essays.

Often, the problem isn't that a student has nothing interesting to say. It's that students don't naturally think of their everyday experiences as potential college essay material.

Your life feels ordinary because you're the person who has been living it.

That's why effective college essay brainstorming requires something students may not do very often: looking closely at their own experiences and asking why certain moments, people, interests, choices, and habits matter to them.

Struggling to find a college essay topic? Use these college essay brainstorming questions to uncover meaningful stories from your everyday experiences.

Read more: https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-essay-brainstorming-how-to-find-your-best-story

08/19/2026

Several colleges have eliminated supplemental essays, but most selective universities still require them to evaluate institutional fit. Learn what this trend means for your college application and how to strengthen every part of your admissions profile.
Read more: https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-supplemental-essays-disappearing

08/18/2026

AP CAPSTONE at Elite Open School starts on September 7—and enrollment is open to students everywhere. Learn more at https://eliteprep.com/ap-capstone

As a teacher, I believe the most valuable skill you can learn in high school is how to conduct research. It’s not just about getting into college; it’s about mastering the research process that you’ll use throughout your academic journey. In AP Research—the first of two courses in the AP Capstone Program—we focus solely on research skills. You’ll learn how to gather sources, write about them, and carry out the entire research process. This isn’t just a one-time project. It’s a skill you’ll practice repeatedly.

No matter what you study in college, you’ll be expected to write papers and make arguments based on research. High school often doesn’t prepare you for this, but it’s crucial for your success!

Watch or listen to the full AP CAPSTONE episode of "Stand Out: The Elite Prep College Admissions Podcast" on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts!

07/28/2026

With the introduction of the Enhanced ACT, the ACT Science section is optional and no longer contributes to a student's ACT composite score. So, should you still take the ACT Science test? The right decision depends on your college list, intended major, and overall testing strategy. Before registering for the Enhanced ACT, here are six important factors to consider. Read our full article https://eliteprep.com/blog/should-you-take-the-act-science-test

06/01/2026

What are your chances of being accepted to each of the nine UC undergraduate campuses? Check out our free UC Admission Predictor to find out...

AboutContact UsProgramsResourcesElite CareersCommunity ScholarsBrochure PDFPress Releases––Privacy Policy––Find Your BranchHow to Register

05/29/2026

For the past several years, the University of California (UC) has operated under a test-blind admissions policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores have not been considered in undergraduate admissions decisions. However, recent developments suggest that the debate over standardized testing is far from over.

In late May 2026, more than 800 UC faculty members, including hundreds of mathematics, engineering, and science professors, signed an open letter urging the University of California to reinstate SAT or ACT requirements for students applying to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) majors beginning with the 2027 admissions cycle (high school graduating class of 2028).

For the past several years, the University of California has operated under a test-blind admissions policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores have not been considered in undergraduate admissions decisions. However, recent developments suggest that the debate over standardized testing is far from over.

04/21/2026

Enroll in SAT Summer Boot Camp & Earn UC Honors Credit. YES, REALLY.

Learn more and schedule a free consultation at https://eliteprep.com/sathonors

04/02/2026

College Waitlisted? What High School Seniors Should Do Next
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Each spring, thousands of high school seniors open their college decision portals and see an unexpected result: waitlisted.

While it can feel frustrating or confusing, a waitlist decision does not mean the admissions process is over. Colleges use waitlists to manage uncertainty in enrollment, and some students are admitted from the waitlist each year.

If you’ve been waitlisted, the key is to respond strategically while continuing to move forward with your college plans. Here are the most important steps students should take...

https://eliteprep.com/blog/college-waitlisted-what-high-school-seniors-should-do-next

03/19/2026

FREE WEBINAR — WED, MARCH 25 @ 7:00PM PT
How to Stand Out in College Admissions: 3 Strategies Students in Grades 9-11 Must Adopt

Register now: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3917739438137/WN_Z0JOnN88SeSH61Mj2SWkNw

Today’s college admissions process is more competitive than ever. Many students have strong grades and activities — yet only a small number truly stand out.

In this webinar, families will learn:
• What selective colleges actually look for beyond GPA and test scores
• • Why many strong students are still rejected
3 key strategies students in grades 9-11 must adopt to stand out
• How to build a high school profile that is both authentic and compelling

Ideal for students in grades 9-11 and their parents.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS WEBINAR WILL BE IN ENGLISH

Register now: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3917739438137/WN_Z0JOnN88SeSH61Mj2SWkNw

03/18/2026

By early March, most high school seniors have already submitted their college applications. Major deadlines have passed—November 30 for the University of California system and around January 1 for many private universities across the United States. However, the admissions cycle is far from over. Each year, many four-year colleges and universities continue to accept applications well into the spring through extended deadlines or rolling admissions.

For students who are still considering their options—or who may have missed earlier deadlines—March can still be a viable time to apply to college. Read more:

By early March, most high school seniors have already submitted their college applications. Major deadlines have passed—November 30 for the University of California system and around January 1 for many private universities across the United States. However, the admissions cycle is far from over. E...