KD College Prep

12/31/2025

Our two founders, Karen and David Dillard, traveled to Chicago for Thanksgiving and visited the University of Chicago! This nationally ranked university challenges students intellectually and prepares them for global impact. With a legacy of Nobel Prize laureates and groundbreaking research, The University of Chicago stands out for its unwavering commitment to intellectual rigor.

Beyond the rigorous academics, the university celebrates creativity through unique traditions like Kuvia—a week-long winter festival where students embrace the season with sunrise exercises, themed workouts, and races across the iconic Gothic quads in freezing temperatures.

Have you considered adding this popular college to your list?

12/29/2025

Take a moment to reflect on your core values and what truly matters to you. This is what admissions officers are really looking for in your application—evidence of who you genuinely are, not just what looks impressive on paper.

Many students approach their college journey with a checklist mentality, selecting opportunities based on convenience rather than authentic interest. But admissions officers have read thousands of applications and can distinguish between genuine commitment and something that's insincere. Ask yourself, "What would I do to make a difference if my college application didn't depend on it?"

Listen to CEO David Dillard share his perspective on building authentic character and finding meaningful opportunities that align with who you really are. After all, your college journey is about discovering and becoming the person you want to be, and then finding the place that will help you become that best version of yourself.

12/28/2025

It's that time of year again—when families start thinking about all the exciting things they'll accomplish in the coming year! While you're planning this year's milestones, don't forget to include college prep and career goals on the list.

If you need some more admissions-inspired ideas, check out this list of 26 potential new year's resolution items for high school students and their parents.

Learn more:

New year = new you. Start on the right track with these 26 new year's resolutions for high school students and parents.

12/27/2025

Six KD students walked into this program looking for a way to boost their scores. What they discovered was so much bigger than test prep. They learned that improvement doesn't happen overnight—it happens through consistency, strategy, and the willingness to adapt. Each of them started their journey with a simple question: "How can I do better?"

The results speak for themselves: a 450-point leap, an 11-point increase on the ACT® test, and more! These numbers represent dedication and persistence.

Congratulations to these amazing students!

12/26/2025

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the most recognized public universities in Texas and across the nation, continually expanding its reputation in top academic fields like engineering, computer science, and business. If UT-Austin is on your college list, take a look at these admission stats to understand what it takes to earn an acceptance.

Planning to apply to UT? If so, add a🤘in the comments below!

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from everyone at KD! Wishing you and yours a day filled with joy, rest, and maybe a break from talking about grades and college plans at the dinner table. Remember, this time together is a precious gift. Make the most of it. 😉❤️

12/24/2025

Looking for an inclusive college that prioritizes both academic excellence and career readiness? Genesis, a The University of Texas at Dallas admissions rep, joined us for a quick interview about what makes the university special. She discusses the diverse student community and the comprehensive resources available to students through post-graduation career support.

Is UTD on your college list? If so, leave a ☄️down below!

12/23/2025

Winter break is a special time to spend time with loved ones and enjoy a hot cup of cocoa. But it can also be a great time to squeeze in some extra practice and focus on goals for the new year!

KD campuses are closed from December 23rd through January 2nd for winter break. While no live activities will be scheduled during this time, students can still access homework reviews and additional resources in the KD Student Portal. We will reopen on Saturday, January 3rd at 8:30 AM.

Enjoy your break! ☃️

12/22/2025

Think submitting your application is enough? Many students don't realize colleges track engagement beyond the application itself. KD's Chief of College Counseling Ashley McCarrick breaks down the term "Demonstrated Interest"—what it means and why schools care about it.

Take a look and learn how this can increase your admissions chances and why it counts.

12/21/2025

You know what goes great with grammar tips? Hot cocoa! ☕❄️ And just like you wouldn't add marshmallows to just any random hot beverage, commas also tend to stick to a set of rules about where they belong.

Watch VP of Verbal Curriculum David Dernier demonstrate how to quickly solve this common question type found on admissions tests.

12/20/2025

College traditions aren't just about the next big game or campus event—sometimes they're about giving back to those who need it most. Universities create meaningful opportunities for students to serve their communities through volunteering, fundraising, and charitable initiatives that define campus life year after year.

Check out these five charity traditions at colleges throughout the U.S. Can you think of any others? Let us know in the comments!

12/19/2025

Why do we call Christmas sweaters ugly? To us, they're fun, creative, and absolutely festive! Today wraps up Holiday Spirit Week with everyone's favorite, and if it isn't obvious... it's Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!🎄

Reminder: All KD campuses will be closed December 23rd through January 1st for our annual holiday break. If you need to talk to an advisor or take a proctored test, contact us this weekend!