Blog

The State of Tutoring: What the Research Says About Why Human Connection Still Matters

I listened to an interesting podcast recently featuring Liz Cohen, author of The Future of Tutoring. Although I intuitively know that tutoring works — after all, I see it firsthand every day — I always appreciate seeing the research that supports that intuition....

Test-Optional Policies: Reading Between the Lines

When the pandemic hit in 2020 and forced SAT and ACT cancellations across the country, colleges were largely forced to adopt test-optional policies so that students wouldn’t be penalized for not being able to take an SAT or ACT. This shook up a long-standing practice...

How to Choose a Safety School

Applying to college involves more than a completed application; it requires research and a strategy. With fierce competition among the elite, and not so elite, colleges, there are no guarantees you will be accepted into your top school. That's why the best college...

Upcoming College Fairs in Northern Virginia — Fall 2025

One of the best ways for high school students to get an early start on college planning is to attend a college fair. These events let students meet admissions staff, ask questions, pick up literature, and get a feel for what different campuses offer. Below is a...

ACT Updates Start Now

ACT test updates take effect this month! As we mentioned last summer, the ACT is getting an overhaul. The new format will have three core sections–English, Reading, and Math–plus an optional science section. The core sections will also be shorter than their current...

My SAT/ACT Scores Came Back… Now What?

You did it! You made it through the digital SAT or ACT and just got your test scores back. Before you get too excited about never seeing another SAT or ACT question for the rest of your life, consider the two scenarios below: Scenario 1: You received a 36 on the ACT...

The Not-So-Dreadful College Deferral List

The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. A new email popped up in your inbox, and the from address says it all; your college admissions email has arrived. The contents of this email is certain to reveal your next academic steps - or is it? When opening...

How to Use PSAT Scores for SAT Prep

The PSAT is a national standardized test administered to 10th and 11th graders. Created by the College Board in partnership with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), this test is designed to predict what you would score on the SAT without any test...

ACT Changes on the Way

Great news for students taking the ACT next year! ACT CEO Janet Godwin announced some major changes to their standardized test. The current test incorporates four sections: English, reading, math, and science with an optional writing section. Starting April 2025, the...

The College Application Essay: How To Write One That Works

College Applications.  There are few things that cause more anxiety for high school seniors and their parents.  Navigating this process can be daunting between gathering transcripts, getting letters of recommendation, taking last minute SATs, and trying to recall four...
Addressing Conflict in the Classroom

Addressing Conflict in the Classroom

Some teachers are easy to click with. They inspire and encourage, teaching you not only about a subject but about life. You genuinely look forward to their class and might even seek them out for advice. On the other hand, some teachers aren't as easy to connect with....

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Changes to the ACT

Changes to the ACT

Changes are coming to the ACT! Starting spring of 2021,* high school students sitting for the ACT can retake individual test sections as opposed to the entire test. For example, a student who scored high on the math and science sections but low on the reading and...

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College Roadmap

College Roadmap

"Overwhelming" is the number one word we hear to describe the college admissions process. Since every choice matters when it comes to college admissions, the weight of a single choice can feel excruciating. Our goal at Tri-Ed Tutoring is to take that weight off your...

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Free Money for College

Free Money for College

Who doesn't want free money for college tuition, textbooks, and living expenses? That's exactly what you get when you are offered, or awarded, an academic scholarship or grant. Scholarships are typically awarded based on merit; if you've excelled in academics,...

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Test Optional Admissions

Test Optional Admissions

It may seem like SAT testing is just another obstacle in the college admissions process. However, these test scores are often used to compare applicants living in different geographic locations. Not only do coursework and graduation requirements vary by state, and...

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What is FAFSA?

What is FAFSA?

College is expensive, there's no doubt about it. The cost of a bachelor's degree at a state, public university could be upwards of $80,000. Since college is a big investment, the federal and state governments as well as individual colleges and career schools offer...

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The Dreaded Return to School

The Dreaded Return to School

Find a quiet spot in your house and listen carefully. If you pay attention, you may be able to hear the collective groan of students across the country upset about having to return to school. The end of summer vacation can be a relief for parents. But for students, it...

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Back to School

Back to School

It's getting to be back to school time, and that means some preparation is in order. Going back to school isn't a simple matter of packing a kid's lunch and sending him or her off. Some additional thought is required. This website has some interesting advice for these...

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Effective Study Habits

Effective Study Habits

A study habit is a repeated behavior or practice used when learning educational material. Positive study habits enable you to study smarter, not harder. Beyond the classroom, they enhance decision-making and problem-solving skills that benefit you throughout life....

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College 101: Class Basics

College 101: Class Basics

The freedom and independence of college life might be enticing enough to pursue a college degree, but it’s the degree that opens the door to greater career opportunities, higher pay, and increased job satisfaction. The classes required to earn a degree are much...

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Choosing the Right College

Choosing the Right College

College can be fun, exciting, and adventurous… or challenging, lonely, and overwhelming. The difference between an amazing college experience and a less-than-stellar experience has a lot to do with the college you choose. You’ll know your college is a good fit if you...

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SAT Score Choice

SAT Score Choice

If you decide to take the SAT more than once, you're in good company. The majority of high school students take the test two or three times with the intent to improve their score each time. After taking the test twice (or more!), students often ask if they should...

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Scoring Policies for the SAT and ACT

Scoring Policies for the SAT and ACT

Blog updated as of March 13, 2023.  SAT and ACT test scores are often used by schools as a predictor of college academic success. Scores also provide a common academic measure that can be used to compare all applicants. But how are these tests scored and how do...

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