Top Tier Admissions
Preparing for the SAT or ACT starts with knowing which college entrance exam best matches your strengths, and that begins with a solid SAT vs. ACT diagnostic test. Once you’ve identified the right exam for your testing strategy, the key to meaningful score improvement is learning how to evaluate your practice tests effectively. High-quality practice […]
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges and universities suspended their requirements for applicants to submit standardized test scores. Post-pandemic, standardized testing requirements have gradually returned. As we enter the 2025-2026 admissions cycle, many of the most selective colleges in the country, including Cornell, Harvard, Dartmouth, Brown, and the University of Pennsylvania, will […]
With the launch of the digital SAT in March 2024 and the more recent updates to the ACT in April 2025 (both of which introduced significant changes to test formats) the standardized testing landscape is more uncertain than ever. At Top Tier Admissions, we’ve received a steady stream of questions about these shifts, so we’re […]
In college admissions, the term “grade inflation” is frequently used. It refers to the trend of teachers awarding higher grades for the same level of work over time. As a result, grades become less meaningful, making it harder for colleges to determine what truly constitutes A-level work. THE RISE OF THE HIGH SCHOOL GPA Colleges […]
Building your college list involves balancing many factors—your academic interests, your desired campus culture and location, and, of course, a balanced mix of reach, target, and safer schools. But, how do you determine which schools are “in range” to ensure a wise application strategy? Understanding and comparing key data points like high school grades and […]
