How to prepare for the SAT and ACT: best study methods for high scores

In today’s episode, we dive into the top SAT and ACT prep strategies that can help you reach high scores and stand out in college applications—tips you won’t get from your average guidance counselor! From time-tested study techniques to effective test-taking strategies and the best practice resources, we cover everything you need to know to prep like a pro. Discover time management tips, learn how to make the most of practice tests, and avoid common mistakes that can cost you points on test day. Whether you're aiming to boost your SAT score, improve your ACT performance, or ace both, this video is packed with valuable advice that’ll help you reach your goals with confidence! 💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸ https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌 Want even more college admission tips? Subscribe to This Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1 📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PREP ================================== Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes advice and occasionally politically-incorrect musings on college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, CSS PROFILE, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy helps college applicants get The EDGE over their tens of thousands of competitors, coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices. ✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com 🖥️ Website: https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com ☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ 👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning. #collegeplanning #collegefinancialaid #collegeadvisor</p>

00:09:27

What are the best strategies for researching and selecting colleges?

In this episode, we dive into the best strategies for researching and selecting colleges—the kind of advice you won’t hear from your guidance counselor! Learn how to create a college list, use college search tools, and explore colleges based on your academic goals, financial needs, and campus culture preferences. We’ll cover everything from college rankings and admissions requirements to evaluating schools based on scholarships and career opportunities. Whether you’re considering Ivy League schools, public universities, or smaller liberal arts colleges, you’ll get insider tips on how to find the right fit for you. This is the essential college selection guide for making informed decisions without the usual guidance counselor advice.</p>

00:09:37

Does applying early decision hurt your financial aid?

In today’s episode, college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss whether applying through Early Decision, Early Action, Restricted Early Action, or other early application types affects your chances of getting financial aid and scholarships. Learn how each application method could impact your financial aid package, what to expect from the college financial aid process, and the pros and cons of applying early. If you're wondering whether applying Early Decision could limit your access to financial aid or reduce your eligibility for merit-based scholarships, this episode will provide the guidance you need to make the best decision for your college applications.</p> If you want to talk to Andy visit Lockwoodcollegeprep.com</p>  </p>

00:34:19

How can students stand out in their personal statement?

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Wondering how to stand out in your personal statement for college applications? This video will show you exactly what it takes to write a strong personal statement that catches the attention of admissions officers. We’ll dive into key strategies for making your college personal statement shine, including how to emphasize your unique qualities, tell your story effectively, and align with college admissions criteria. Learn how to make your personal statement stand outfrom the competition with expert tips and writing techniques. If you’re aiming to improve your college application, don’t miss this guide on writing a powerful and compelling personal statement for college that truly sets you apart!</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want even more college admission tips? </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to This Channel: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ================================== </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">🖥️ Website: </span><a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning. </span></p>

00:11:26

How early should students start preparing for college applications?

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Not sure when to start preparing for college? In this video, we’ll guide you through the perfect college prep timeline to ensure you're ready for the college admissions process. Starting your college admissions preparation early can give you a huge advantage, whether you're in your freshman, sophomore, or junior year. We'll cover essential steps in high school college preparation, offer a college planning guide, and share tips on how early to start college prep for maximum success. If you're looking to boost your college readiness and secure your spot at your dream school, this video is for you. Learn the best time to start college prep and make your college journey stress-free!</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want even more college admission tips?</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to This Channel: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ==================================</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">🖥️ Website: </span><a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning.</span></p>

00:08:24

How important are standardized test scores compared to GPA?

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Wondering how important standardized test scores are compared to GPA in the college admissions process? These days, it seems like almost every student has a high GPA, making it harder to stand out. A lot of the advice you hear, even from your guidance counselor, is outdated. In this video, we break down the real value of GPA vs. standardized test scores and what colleges are actually looking for now. While many schools still consider SAT or ACT scores, others are shifting their focus as more students achieve strong GPAs. We’ll give you the latest insights on college admissions criteria that go beyond the old information out there, helping you understand how to strengthen your college application in today's competitive environment. Don’t miss this updated guide to the role of standardized test scores and GPA in modern college admissions!</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want even more college admission tips? </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to This Channel: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ================================== </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">🖥️ Website: </span><a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning</span></p>  </p> <span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p> <br /><br /></p>

00:06:26

What extracurricular activities have the biggest impact on college admissions?

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Curious about what extracurricular activities have the biggest impact on college admissions? In this video, we’ll reveal the top extracurriculars colleges look for—beyond the typical suggestions from guidance counselors. Often, students are advised to pursue activities that don’t actually strengthen their college application as much as they think. We’ll guide you through which activities have the most weight in the college admissions process, from leadership roles to community service and unique hobbies. Learn how to select and present your extracurricular activities effectively to meet college admissions criteria. Don’t miss this essential guide to the best extracurricular activities for college applications that can help you stand out!</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want even more college admission tips? </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to This Channel: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ================================== </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">🖥️ Website: </span><a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning</span></p>

00:08:56

What are some common mistakes students make on college applications?

Want to avoid the common college application mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting accepted? This guide breaks down the college application errors and mistakes students make on college applications—things your guidance counselor might not fully cover. We’ll highlight the top college application mistakes and share insights on the application errors to avoid so you can submit with confidence. From missed deadlines to essay blunders, you'll learn how to avoid these pitfalls and master the dos and don'ts of college applications. Whether you’re looking to understand the biggest college admissions mistakes or simply want tips to make your application stand out, this guide is packed with practical advice. Boost your chances with our expert tips and submit a strong, error-free application!</p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want more information?</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Want even more college admission tips? </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to This Channel: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: </span><a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ================================== </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">🖥️ Website: </span><a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com </span></a></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ </span></p> <span style="font-weight: 400;">👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning</span></p>  </p>

00:06:02

What are the key factors colleges look for in applicants?

<span>Looking to understand the </span><span>key factors colleges look for in applicants</span><span>? This video dives deep into the </span><span>college admissions requirements</span><span> and </span><span>college application criteria</span><span> that can make or break your application. We reveal the </span><span>top factors colleges look for</span><span> and provide insights into </span><span>what makes a strong college application</span><span>. Learn essential tips on how to meet these </span><span>college admissions criteria</span><span> and enhance your profile to stand out. Whether you're curious about </span><span>what colleges consider most important</span><span> or seeking advice on </span><span>how to stand out in college applications</span><span>, this guide is packed with valuable information to help you succeed. Get ready to boost your chances with our expert tips on the </span><span>college admission process</span><span>!</span></p> <span>💻 USEFUL RESOURCES: ▸ https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/ ▸</span></p> <span>https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/blog ▸</span></p> <span>https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/ 📌</span></p> <span>Want even more college admission tips? </span></p> <span>Subscribe to This Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1">https://www.youtube.com/c/AndyLockwood/?sub_confirmation=1</a></span></p> <span>📖 Get the best-selling book on financial aid for college planning: <a href="https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V">https://amzn.to/3xSGc7V </a></span></p> <span>ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PLANNING ================================== </span></p> <span>Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes financial aid, college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also helps families eligible for financial aid or scholarships, and negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.</span></p> <span>✉️ Business inquiries: vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com </span></p> <span>🖥️ Website: <a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/">https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com </a></span></p> <span>☎️ Call: 1-516-882-5464 __________ </span></p> <span>👉🏻 Did you enjoy this video? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below - we love hearing from you! Also, we appreciate it when you share these videos with your friends who are interested in college planning. </span></p> <span> </span></p> <span> </span></p> <span> </span></p>

00:27:51

Top 10 College Essay Mistakes

FREE Guide at 👉https://www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/how2hide - #commonapp #collegeessays 🕒</p> In This Video (originally a webinar at LockwoodCollegePrep.com) college consultant Andy Lockwood walks through the worst mistakes college essay writers make, and how to avoid them, so that you can dramatically increase odds of being accepted to your Dream College. Topics covered:</p> <ol> <li>The weird way to overcome writer's block</li> <li>Why your English teacher may not be the best one to edit your essay</li> <li>Is it OK to discuss religion (esp. being Jewish) or politics these days?</li> <li>The "Invisible Question" on the Common Application and How to Avoid It</li> <li>More, including some lively and live Q&A</li> </ol> See <a href="https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/essays">https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/essays</a> for info on our college essay editing program (space limited, may not be available depending on when you're reading this).</p>

01:19:23