Pencils down, everyone! Where we’re going today… you won’t need them. That’s because today we’re going to explore the SAT format, and unlike the standardized tests of the past, the modern SAT is 100% digital. The paper-based version is officially gone, replaced by a streamlined experience that’s designed to be faster and more useful for you and the schools evaluating you. For students preparing to take the SAT for the…

Don’t Miss the FAFSA Deadline: Why Time, Strategy, and Smart Choices Matter More Than Ever By Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO & Founder of Prep Expert® Every year, millions of families across the U.S. face a critical countdown: the FAFSA deadline. But this year, with delays, tech glitches, and rising college costs, the stakes are even higher. If you’re a student, or a parent, reading this within days of the FAFSA…

Challenge Nishika Singhal entered Prep Expert®’s SAT course looking for improvement, especially in math. Her previous score on the math section was 680 (from the March 2024 SAT), and while she felt relatively steady in reading, she wanted to push her math score to the next level. “I was able to improve my SAT math score up to a 750 and am just 2–3 questions away from getting an 800…

What the New FAFSA Changes Mean for Families; and How to Maximize Aid AnywayBy Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO & Founder of Prep Expert® The financial aid system in the U.S. is going through another round of major changes; and if you’re feeling confused, overwhelmed, or behind, you’re not alone. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) has been overhauled again, and this year’s rollout is hitting families hard, especially…

If you’ve got your sights set on the Ivy League, you probably already know that expectations are beyond high. These schools are known for academic excellence, incredible opportunities outside of the classroom, a long list of successful alumni… and extremely selective acceptance rates. But one of the most common questions we hear is also one of the most important: what SAT score do you need to get in? The answer…

Challenge When Stella Colonero first enrolled in Prep Expert®’s SAT course, her goal was simple: raise her score. But what she didn’t expect was just how much of a transformation she’d undergo; both in performance and mindset. “I had wanted to improve my score but never would I have even thought that I could improve it by at least 200 points.” Prior to Prep Expert®, Stella had tried a prep…

If you want to be an expert at anything, you need to know your subject inside and out. If you want to be a doctor, you have to know everything about human anatomy, from the Achilles tendon to the zygomatic arch. A chef doesn’t just follow recipes; they understand flavor profiles, ingredient interactions, and cooking techniques. No matter the field, deep knowledge is what transforms someone from a beginner into…

What a Department of Education Shutdown Could Mean for Your FAFSA and Financial AidBy Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO & Founder of Prep Expert® In today’s polarized political climate, the Department of Education has become a high-stakes target—and millions of students may be caught in the crossfire. Between proposed budget cuts, federal layoffs, and talks of a complete shutdown, families are asking a critical question: What happens to FAFSA and financial…

Challenge Before joining Prep Expert®, Ganga Nair felt the weight of SAT stress, unsure how to tackle the test effectively and frustrated by the overwhelming prep process. Despite her efforts, she lacked the strategies and confidence needed to enter the exam with a positive mindset. “Before the course, I was feeling pretty stressed about the SAT.” Ganga needed more than just content review, she needed structure, mentorship, and a proven…

Why Banning International Students Would Hurt U.S. Colleges—and the Entire EconomyBy Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO & Founder of Prep Expert® In a bold and controversial move, the Trump administration recently attempted to revoke Harvard University’s certification to enroll new international students—a decision that, if enforced nationwide, would send shockwaves not just through elite universities, but across the entire American higher education system. As the founder of Prep Expert®, I work…