Students often find that writing college essays is the most challenging aspect of the application process. It’s hard to showcase who you are and why you’re a good fit for a college in 600 words or less. In this free guide, we’ll answer common questions about the essay writing process and provide tips for how students can get started.
The essays are the one component of a college application in which an applicant has complete control over presenting their story, ambitions, background, or hopes using their own voice and personality. A strong essay can tip the scales on an admission officer’s decision about a candidate if the reader can connect with the writer in a way that feels personal.
This can vary significantly from college to college. The UCs, for instance, will have two readers review an essay and assign a number to it. If they are off by more than a point, it goes to a third reader.
Some highly selective private schools employ a panel model to make final rounds of decisions via vote. First-round readers may be under 30 years of age, perhaps even graduates of the institution. Supervising admissions officers may be older and have worked at multiple universities.
It depends on the situation, but every space of the application is an opportunity to tell more of a student’s story. Generally, taking on optional essays is a way of communicating one’s effort and interest for the university asking the questions. It’s always important to read the directions.
Writing essays for college admission has a different purpose from the 5-paragraph, thesis-centered research essays students are typically taught to write in high school. The genre of a personal statement is closer to creative non-fiction than to academic writing.
Students will need to be prepared to write with an authentic voice about themselves and events in their lives that have shaped them. They’ll need to be able to reflect with honesty and maturity on who they have become as people.
The best way to make college essays unique is to pull stories from specific events that represent slices or brief episodes of one’s life. No one else’s family is exactly like yours. No one else has the same best friends you have. No one else ran into that random scientist on the Singaporean subway and asked to look at his collection of tropical flora under a microscope. Start with a specific scene.
For more tips on how to make your essay memorable, read our 15-step guide to writing college essays.
The personal statement is more wide-ranging as far as possible topic selection. Therefore, it’s usually the hardest to brainstorm for as it could be about anything, any moment that’s shaped you. You’re also typically given a longer word limit—400 to 650 words usually, and the same essay potentially goes to all of the colleges on your application platform.
Supplements, on the other hand, are college-specific, usually shorter (50-300 words), and geared to gather information from you on a narrower topic area (e.g., “Why are you applying for this major”).
As the selectivity of schools on your college list rises, you can expect the number of responses you will have to create to go up. Additionally, it is not uncommon for our students to run into 40+ supplements that they must respond to to complete their applications for a list of 8-10 colleges.
The prompts for the personal statement on the Common App release in the first week of June, but students can start brainstorming possible topics ahead of time. An applicant should strive to finish revising and editing the personal statement by the end of July. The prompts for the various supplemental essays are typically announced August 1st.
Between August 1st and October 1st is a very busy time for writing supplements because it coincides with the beginning of 12th grade. Students aiming for selective colleges should strive to finish and submit by their early deadlines.
If your student needs help getting started on the essay-writing process, we offer the APPLY NOW! Essay Boot Camp, a three-day session led by KD’s college counseling team.
The time spent may depend on a student’s comfort and skill with writing in general. Well-prepared applicants should make sure they have time to draft, revise, edit, and ask a trusted counselor for feedback. Often taking a few days between each writing stage is beneficial for catching mistakes or thinking of clearer ways to phrase sentences. It is not uncommon to see students spend 3-4 weeks or more to complete this process.
Most personal statements allow between 400 and 700 words (650 on the Common App). Supplements typically range between 50 and 300 words. Some scholarship or honors essays suggest 500-1000 words. It’s important to adhere to all word or character limits strictly.
Have your student meet with a college prep advisor to discuss the timeline of this exciting journey. The earlier a student can get organized, the more control they can have in shaping their future.
College visits can also serve as motivator. Seeing places a student loves can help them find motivation to invest time and dig deeper into themselves during the writing process.
Editing and revision go hand-in-hand to serve the story or message of an essay. Grammar conventions are not necessarily as strict as they are in an academic paper, but students ought to take care with their word choices, tone, and how their paragraphs fit together. Usually the enemy in self-editing is being too familiar with your own writing and background to be an honest critic. An outsider reading your essay might be able to tell you which areas are vague, unclear, or feel unnecessary to the story.
With options like the APPLY NOW! Advantage Program and Essay Boot Camp, KD College Prep helps streamline the writing and editing process, making it easier for students to conquer this crucial part of the admissions process.
KD College Prep has a team of essay specialists who dedicate themselves to helping students at any stage in the writing process. We prefer to help you from the very start of brainstorming and drafting in our Essay Boot Camp, but if you’ve already drafted an essay you’d like reviewed, our team can evaluate it for you and arrange a One-on-One College Counseling Session for help with revision.
Explore KD’s College Counseling services for college essay help.
KD’s College Counseling Services for 7th-12th grades include numerous options to help your student find guidance throughout the admissions process. Activities are led by our experienced college counseling team, and students can attend activities virtually through live-online classes and meetings. (Some in-person options are available at one of our four DFW-area campuses.)
Choose a schedule that works for you and adjust as needed
Attend Live-Online Classes
and Interactive Labs
Meet with college counselors to focus on specific areas of need
Full-time staff available
to help support you
“KD really helped in preparing me (with) how to approach these tests. Having the skills to answer questions is one thing, but knowing the strategies to utilize them quickly and efficiently within the testing timeframe is another. KD does a great job teaching the tricks to not only ace these tests, but complete them.”
“KD really helped in preparing me (with) how to approach these tests. Having the skills to answer questions is one thing, but knowing the strategies to utilize them quickly and efficiently within the testing timeframe is another. KD does a great... Read more...
Angel N. – Class of 2026
“Excellent process and results. Over the year of KD commitment, our son raised his SAT® score by 410 points. Our son was accepted to 8 of 9 colleges applied to and, due to his scores, received academic monetary scholarships at each college applied to, both in and out of state. The skills our son gained at KD were not just beneficial for test taking. Susan was a gem, always available to answer questions, and was a major encourager to us parents and our son. I highly recommend (KD) Flower Mound!”
“Excellent process and results. Over the year of KD commitment, our son raised his SAT® score by 410 points. Our son was accepted to 8 of 9 colleges applied to and, due to his scores, received academic monetary scholarships at... Read more...
Kelli S. – Son, Class of 2025
“They were very helpful and laid out necessary planning stages that helped me with success.”
“They were very helpful and laid out necessary planning stages that helped me with success.”
Pavan G. – Class of 2025
“We used KD College Prep for both our kids. They do an amazing job. Both kids got very high SAT® scores and auto-admit to any Texas school. If you enroll your student prior to PSAT exam, they assist with that and National Merit. You pay it once, and they can keep going 'til graduation. Expensive but worth the money. With anything like this: you get out of it what you put into it. The test-taking skills they teach—our son still uses as he is getting his master's in engineering.”
“We used KD College Prep for both our kids. They do an amazing job. Both kids got very high SAT® scores and auto-admit to any Texas school. If you enroll your student prior to PSAT exam, they assist with that and... Read more...
Jennifer C. – Parent of 2 KD Students
“I am incredibly grateful for KD. Their team helped me throughout the entire college application process, from revising my essay to formatting my activities list. Particularly my essays—they were very methodical and careful with revising it to make it the best it could be! Thank you to Ashley, Idris, Kimberly, Will, and the rest of the KD team!”
“I am incredibly grateful for KD. Their team helped me throughout the entire college application process, from revising my essay to formatting my activities list. Particularly my essays—they were very methodical and careful with revising it to make it the best... Read more...
Rin H. – Class of 2025
“I love KD! They helped me a lot by preparing me for college. I feel like I went into the application process more confident and knowledgeable. KD explains everything clearly and thoroughly, making even the most complicated aspects easy to understand. They are patient, dedicated, and genuinely invested in your success. No matter how many questions you have, they take the time to ensure you feel completely prepared. Their support goes beyond just guidance—they truly care about your journey and do everything they can to help you achieve your goals. I’m incredibly grateful for their help!”
“I love KD! They helped me a lot by preparing me for college. I feel like I went into the application process more confident and knowledgeable. KD explains everything clearly and thoroughly, making even the most complicated aspects easy to understand.... Read more...
Pranavi B. – Class of 2025
“I will advise any new student to attend (KD College Prep) starting with 9th grade itself and take advantage of this program. Workshops are also great to hone your skills and address any weakness that you may have either in verbal or math. KD also allows you to have 1:1 with the best (advisor) to address any gaps.”
“I will advise any new student to attend (KD College Prep) starting with 9th grade itself and take advantage of this program. Workshops are also great to hone your skills and address any weakness that you may have either in verbal... Read more...
Adit R. – Class of 2026
“Both Ashley and Idris were very resourceful, and they helped on every step of the process. Having someone with strong experience look over my essay and application helped me very much.”
“Both Ashley and Idris were very resourceful, and they helped on every step of the process. Having someone with strong experience look over my essay and application helped me very much.”
Afseen I. – Class of 2025
“The KD Experience really kept me on track with a specific deadline to ensure I was never behind and always ahead of the college application curve!”
“The KD Experience really kept me on track with a specific deadline to ensure I was never behind and always ahead of the college application curve!”
Jihan K. – Class of 2025
"KD taught me amazing strategies that made it easier for me to receive scores worthy of the National Merit Scholarship Program."
"KD taught me amazing strategies that made it easier for me to receive scores worthy of the National Merit Scholarship Program."
Morolake O. – Class of 2026
"I used KD College's resources to help me sharpen my skills and stay consistent with my prep. The Workshops were especially helpful in keeping me on track with my prep journey. The practice tests were like checkpoints to see where I was at and how much more I had left to go in the process."
"I used KD College's resources to help me sharpen my skills and stay consistent with my prep. The Workshops were especially helpful in keeping me on track with my prep journey. The practice tests were like checkpoints to see where I... Read more...
Dhruv P. – Class of 2026
“KD had a lot of useful practice problems and tests, which I used to further my knowledge and practice essential skills that were on the SAT® (test). The workshops were really helpful because they went over key concepts and the teachers clearly explained the problem.”
“KD had a lot of useful practice problems and tests, which I used to further my knowledge and practice essential skills that were on the SAT® (test). The workshops were really helpful because they went over key concepts and the teachers... Read more...
Rohit J. – Class of 2026
“Very helpful. Gave him the motivation and discipline to study hard for the SAT® (test). Being able to review practice exams and understand why he got the question wrong (was helpful).”
“Very helpful. Gave him the motivation and discipline to study hard for the SAT® (test). Being able to review practice exams and understand why he got the question wrong (was helpful).”
D. P. – Son, Class of 2024
“I used KD’s test preparation resources my freshman and sophomore year. The lessons I learned at KD’s workshops and summer lessons helped me when I took the SAT® and ACT® (tests), which I did exceptionally well on!”
“I used KD’s test preparation resources my freshman and sophomore year. The lessons I learned at KD’s workshops and summer lessons helped me when I took the SAT® and ACT® (tests), which I did exceptionally well on!”
Anthony N. – Class of 2024
“My KD experience was exceptional, with every teacher genuinely caring and advocating for me in my SAT® (test) success. I enjoyed the structure of the classes and pacing of the lessons. I'm very satisfied!”
“My KD experience was exceptional, with every teacher genuinely caring and advocating for me in my SAT® (test) success. I enjoyed the structure of the classes and pacing of the lessons. I'm very satisfied!”
Athena L. – Class of 2024
“I enjoyed all of my time at the KD campus in Plano. I miss the testing environment and getting ready for the SAT® (test) through the practice tests, which made me get a very good score on the real test. :)”
“I enjoyed all of my time at the KD campus in Plano. I miss the testing environment and getting ready for the SAT® (test) through the practice tests, which made me get a very good score on the real test. :)”
Aakrist G. – Class of 2024
“KD College Prep was highly instrumental in Dhwani’s getting 99+ percentile on the PSAT (test). She owes it to your workshops, practice tests and especially the one-on-one tutoring since that helped her sprint straight through to improve her score by 250 points.”
“KD College Prep was highly instrumental in Dhwani’s getting 99+ percentile on the PSAT (test). She owes it to your workshops, practice tests and especially the one-on-one tutoring since that helped her sprint straight through to improve her score by 250... Read more...
Bhuvan M. – Daughter, Class of 2025
“(The) KD team is very professional and has a great program. They sincerely want to help kids realize, uplift, and enhance their potential. What better way to do that than maximizing the SAT®/ACT® score!! KD is not just a tool for parents to navigate through the college selection process but also a great treasure trove of information and help that they provide through their years of experience. They are experts in their craft. Thank you, team KD.”
“(The) KD team is very professional and has a great program. They sincerely want to help kids realize, uplift, and enhance their potential. What better way to do that than maximizing the SAT®/ACT® score!! KD is not just a tool for parents... Read more...
Satya P. – Daughter, Class of 2026
“My experience with KD College Prep was immensely beneficial. The structured program and guidance provided me exactly what I needed to enhance my test score. Starting with a SAT® score of 1410, I was initially unsure about reaching my goal score. However, through dedicated practice sessions, personalized feedback, and consistent support from knowledgeable instructors at KD College Prep, I saw a significant improvement in my performance. Ultimately, they helped me achieve a score of 1530 on the SAT (test). The program not only boosted my score but also my prospects for college admissions.”
“My experience with KD College Prep was immensely beneficial. The structured program and guidance provided me exactly what I needed to enhance my test score. Starting with a SAT® score of 1410, I was initially unsure about reaching my goal score.... Read more...
Pranav K. – Class of 2025
“KD provided exceptional instruction and coaching as I prepared for the college application and admissions process. The classes and skills I learned while being part of the program increased my test scores and my readiness for college. The personalized counseling and advice I received is what really made KD so special and invaluable to me. I walked away from each conversation with a KD staff member feeling valued and confident I could reach my goals for college admission and the next chapter of my life. KD played a very significant role in preparing, equipping, and giving me the confidence I needed for the college application and admissions process.”
“KD provided exceptional instruction and coaching as I prepared for the college application and admissions process. The classes and skills I learned while being part of the program increased my test scores and my readiness for college. The personalized counseling and... Read more...
Olivia B. – Class of 2024
“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that foundation. Without KD, I don't think I would have the motivation to consistently study for the SAT (test). In the beginning, every time I saw a KD email, I'd remember to sign up for a workshop and practice test for the weekend. Then, it became a habit to go to KD on Saturday mornings. Going to these workshops and taking practice tests consistently helped me get exposed to every question on the SAT (test) for math. Therefore, I was hardly ever surprised to... Read more...
“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that... Read more...
Meenakshi S. – Class of 2024
“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right choice for us... We appreciate your patience with her. She could not have gotten here without your help.”
“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right... Read more...
Arun K. – Daughter, Class of 2023
“KD College Prep has offered me multiple resources, makes the effort to craft comprehensive courses, and personalizes instruction that is adjustable to my schedule.”
“KD College Prep has offered me multiple resources, makes the effort to craft comprehensive courses, and personalizes instruction that is adjustable to my schedule.”
Quynh T. – Class of 2023
“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score (1560), thanks in part to his preparation with KD College Prep.”
“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score... Read more...
C.J. S. – Son, Class of 2023
“This was perfect for our son! He needed the structure to get organized to study and did better than expected!”
“This was perfect for our son! He needed the structure to get organized to study and did better than expected!”
Hillary B. – Son, Class of 2023
“KD has been very useful for me and has helped me become a better test taker. I don’t think I could’ve gotten the score I got without the countless hours I put in attending workshops, taking tests, and attending reviews.”
“KD has been very useful for me and has helped me become a better test taker. I don’t think I could’ve gotten the score I got without the countless hours I put in attending workshops, taking tests, and attending reviews.”
Samarth S. – Class of 2023
“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to learn more or maximize their scores!”
“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to... Read more...
Preston King – Class of 2023
“Overall, it was a good experience. It instilled the discipline to focus on test preparation through workshops and assignments. The review of each test was also very helpful.”
“Overall, it was a good experience. It instilled the discipline to focus on test preparation through workshops and assignments. The review of each test was also very helpful.”
Sajitha N. – Daughter, Class of 2023
“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT® test. I only had to do it once because I got to relearn those pesky algebra skills that I forgot through the program.”
“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT®... Read more...
Katya G. – Class of 2023
“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions advice!”
“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions... Read more...
Ananya A. – Class of 2023
“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt like it made the biggest difference in his scores in the least amount of time. He found the program easy to follow and adapt to his strengths and weaknesses. As parents, we cannot say enough good things about the KD program and would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their scores and earn scholarship dollars!”
“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt... Read more...
Ellyn A. – Parent of 5 KD Students
“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped her know how to manage her time while taking the test as that is a huge aspect to the test.”
“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped... Read more...
Julie M. – Daughter, Class of 2022
“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what I really appreciated. There was a time that writing essays just clicked, and it was much easier after that.”
“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what... Read more...
Neha C. – Class of 2022
“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All three were accepted to colleges with single digit admission rates. Our eldest was selected as a National Merit® Finalist and was able to apply to colleges with a perfect SAT® score. Our other two were both named National African American Recognition Scholars and National Merit Commended Scholar. One of them applied to college in 2020 with an SAT score of 1520 (780 math and 740 verbal) and the youngest scored 1500 on the October 2021 SAT test (720 verbal and 780 math). Our... Read more...
“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All... Read more...
Nike A. – Parent of 3 KD Students
“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what you need and more to reach whatever score range you set as your goal (I was able to get a 1540). My favorite part though, specifically with the Coppell campus, was the people! Everyone was so incredibly nice and always in impossibly good moods. It was a great environment to learn and improve in!”
“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what... Read more...
Alex N. – Class of 2023
“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA but struggled on standardized tests. Taking the test prep classes throughout junior year and taking practice tests got me more prepared each time I took the test. I achieved my best score the summer going into my senior year. That score allowed me to apply to my top schools as soon as early decision opened. I am so grateful to Karen Dillard and the extra practice and proctored exams! My parents are grateful too—for the small investment they got a great return.”
“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA... Read more...
Saadia P. – Class of 2022
“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really helpful. I also really appreciated all the varied practice and detailed breakdowns from instructors, helping me see not just what answer was correct but why those answers were correct.”
“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really... Read more...
Pranathi P. – Class of 2022
“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in depth. Another great part of the KD experience was the wonderful staff giving me so many useful tips and strategies for the areas that I was specifically struggling with. The staff understands students have different strengths and weaknesses, and the fact that they tailor the info they give to each student is very useful. Overall, KD has helped me not only with SAT preparation but also with my normal school work.”
“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in... Read more...
Armaan C. – Class of 2023
“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and I was able to get a really good score the first time I took it! Once again, thank you KD, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to earn a high SAT score.”
“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and... Read more...
Sri Vamsi Krishna Putti – Class of 2023, Frisco ISD
“My husband and I are so impressed with your course and the quality of guidance that you provide. It feels like you really want our son to succeed. Thank you!”
“My husband and I are so impressed with your course and the quality of guidance that you provide. It feels like you really want our son to succeed. Thank you!”
Debra H. – Son, Class of 2023
“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test at the beginning of 11th grade! I would recommend KD to anyone who wants a highly competitive SAT score.”
“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test... Read more...
Praneel S. – Class of 2023
“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped me with the various steps required for college admissions. At KD I enjoyed learning from amazing teachers, who cared for each of their students individually and were ready to help wherever it was needed. Being a student at KD has also helped me figure out which learning techniques work best for me. The opportunity to engage in different learning methods such as small group interactive learning, larger group discussions, or individual practice are all ways that helped me come up with a learning... Read more...
“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped... Read more...
Tanisha P. – Class of 2020
“My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into helping me write the best essay possible, especially reviewing my essays twice to polish them completely. In addition, I have noticed that writing my resume has released a lot of stress off my shoulder when it comes to making sure I have all the things necessary to apply to schools.”
“My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into... Read more...
Claudia A. – Class of 2020
“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of learning easier. I think that after you started going to a good amount of classes and the workshops, you knew every teacher, and they were always available to answer any questions that you had...Everyone was just so welcoming and made learning more engaging for the students, especially with the workshops. All of had their own unique style of teaching which never made a class boring.”
“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of... Read more...
Rishab P. – Class of 2021
“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or above... So many people told me it would be impossible to reach my desired score. After months of using KD's methods my scores definitely improved but hovered around 1350—still not near the score I needed but closer. After finally working with both of you during one on ones, my scores started to see heavy improvement and while I didn't get a score of 1520 or above as a single score, I got it as a superscore... Read more...
“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or... Read more...
David P. – Class of 2022
“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in awe at the consistent level of professionalism yet genuine concern for each and every person that walks through their doors. Thank you KD staff for being great mentors for our children!”
“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in... Read more...
Gloria D. – Daughter, Class of 2021
“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I have finished college applications, and I would love to thank all the teachers and aides at KD for giving me the score that I got on the test. Without the extra practice, I wouldn't have been able to get through to the score I got. These past 3 years went by so fast, and it is so fun to look back at where I started and how much I have come out with flying colors. Thank you so much!”
“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I... Read more...
Kareena A. – Class of 2021
“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT®, and ACT® tests. The resources were very helpful, and the individualized assistance I received from teachers were what really supported my learning. Special thanks to Ms. Barwick and Mr. Hoffman!”
“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT®, and ACT® tests. The resources were... Read more...
Advika R. – Class of 2022
“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in class. In conjunction, those two things helped me raise my score a lot because I was not a math kid before KD or high school. The repetition and being able to practice in a non-stressful environment and simulating that testing experience is something that was very beneficial for me... “The college counseling team was super patient and honest about the work I was submitting. I know for a lot of kids, it’s hard to articulate who you are through 250-300 words. It was definitely... Read more...
“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in... Read more...
Blaine W. – Class of 2021
“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a rising junior at the University of Miami, and my youngest son is an incoming freshman at Vanderbilt University. Steve’s help in navigating the complicated college landscape and finding the BEST FIT for my two sons is what has made this resource invaluable. “What made the biggest difference for my two sons was the depth and breadth of knowledge Steve has of the many universities and colleges in the U.S. First, by getting to know my kids on a one-on-one basis, he was able to... Read more...
“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a... Read more...
Julio M. – Parent
“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the summer. She liked being challenged academically, and she loved taking classes with high school students who were focused on their college goals. These students were also excellent role models! The lessons were especially important during the pandemic when it wasn’t a typical middle school experience.”
“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the... Read more...
Beth L. – Advanced Start™ Parent
“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got a 1530 on the December 5th SAT test. KD played a huge role in this, and I just wanted to say thanks to everyone there for helping me achieve this.”
“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got... Read more...
Vyom S. – Class of 2022
"Our twin 16-year-old boys used KD College Prep to study/practice for the PSAT test, and we believe the classes and coaching were invaluable. Very professional and concise. Worth every penny!"
"Our twin 16-year-old boys used KD College Prep to study/practice for the PSAT test, and we believe the classes and coaching were invaluable. Very professional and concise. Worth every penny!"
Jerry – Sons, Class of 2022
“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT, SAT®, and ACT® tests (1520, 1580, and 34). I really appreciate everyone's willingness to be flexible and accommodate my requests!”
“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT,... Read more...
Mithra A. – Class of 2022
"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT® test (third time) and a 35 on my ACT® test (first time). I remember the first ever practice test I took for the SAT test was a 1230 (about 1.5 yrs ago) and the first ever practice test I took for the ACT test was a 31 or 32 (about 6 months ago)."
"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT® test... Read more...
Elise P. – Class of 2022
“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT® and ACT® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents very informative and helpful during the process as well. My son (Jacob) graduated in 2018 and got a 32 on the ACT test. got accepted into Texas A&M but chose Baylor for Health Sciences. My daughter (Morgan) graduated in 2020 and got a 1450 on the SAT test and a 32 on the ACT test. got into an Ivy League school (Cornell) for Engineering. Both my kids say that they apply the test taking skills they learned at KD Prep to... Read more...
“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT® and ACT® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents... Read more...
Jon D. – Parent
“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard and other schools, but I've really started to immerse into the Emory culture, especially their debate team. Not having to pay for college and still attend a private institution is really a dream come true, and it wouldn't be possible if it were not for you.”
“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard... Read more...
Shreyas R. – Class of 2020
“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a good school will help me find my path. Also, Steve's knowledge about what colleges were wanting to see in potential admissions candidates was a huge help... “There was not one specific beneficial moment or turning point in my time working with Steve, there were many. He encouraged me during the entire application process and brought to my attention many colleges I wouldn't have considered or heard about without his help.”
“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a... Read more...
Jake W. – Class of 2020
"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."
"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."
Zarni, Daughter – Class of 2021
"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit® Finalist."
"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit® Finalist."
Claire I. – Class of 2020
"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT®/ACT® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."
"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT®/ACT® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."
Gopi C. – Class of 2021
"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made sure that I would be successful in whichever college I picked, and I am eternally grateful for all their help and hard work!"
"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made... Read more...
Omar S. – Class of 2020
"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by far the most concerned about. I didn’t know how exactly I should go about choosing which places to apply to and if I were to be accepted, if they would fit me. The team did a wonderful job considering my likes and dislikes and helped me compile a list of colleges that suited my tastes and would further my academic career. "After this integral first step, my focus turned towards time management and writing quality essays that would stand out to colleges. I got... Read more...
"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by... Read more...
Nina H. – Class of 2020
"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT® and ACT® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."
"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT® and ACT® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."
Morgan D. – Class of 2020
"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT®/SAT® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."
"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT®/SAT® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."
Tiffany – Son, Class of 2021
"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students wanting an edge on their national test scores!"
"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students... Read more...
Daniel J. – Class of 2020
"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."
"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."
Sam H. – Class of 2020
"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the help from amazing teachers and staff. I am so grateful for KD!"
"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the... Read more...
Matt K. – Class of 2020
"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."
"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."
Thomas D. – Class of 2019
"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."
"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."
Piper F. – Class of 2020
"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."
"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."
Kathy – Son attends Mizzou
“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure out a personal plan that would work for her and were always available for our questions and helping her reach her goals. Every employee from the managers to the students working at their locations are top notch.”
“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure... Read more...
Tracy – Daughter, Class of 2020
"The KD College Prep course not only provided test practice but also motivated her to work hard for her college applications. It gave her the confidence to dream big!"
"The KD College Prep course not only provided test practice but also motivated her to work hard for her college applications. It gave her the confidence to dream big!"
Prema – Daughter attends Rice