Best Higher Scores Test Prep Podcasts (2025)

1
[For Counselors & Teachers] Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation 25:50

4h ago25:50

25:50

We shared an episode for students about requesting letters of recommendation, now we're sharing our pro tips for counselors and teachers as they write letters of recommendation on behalf of their students! In this episode, you'll hear from Julie Kampschroeder, College Counselor with 31+ years of experience, and Peter Van Buskirk, former Dean of Adm…

1
[For Students] How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation 29:30

15d ago29:30

29:30

Wondering how to ask for a letter of recommendation — and actually get a strong one? In this episode, we break down everything students need to know about recommendation letters: when to ask, how to ask, and what to share with your teacher or counselor to help them write a compelling letter. 🎙️ Our guests, Julie Kampschroeder (former college counse…

1
Course Selection: Strategies for Choosing your High School Courses 14:19

1M ago14:19

14:19

In this episode, Peter Van Buskirk, Strategic Advisor for Scoir and former Dean of Admission, shares pro tips for selecting your high school courses. We dive into what colleges are looking for and how to plan your classes strategically throughout your years in high school. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
🎙️ ACT 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the New Test Format & Changes 8:30

2M ago8:30

8:30

Big changes are coming to the ACT starting in 2025! If you’re planning to take the ACT after April 2025, you need to know how the revamped test structure will affect your preparation and test-day strategy. In this episode of WizCast by Wizako, Sophia and Kai break down everything about the new ACT format—what’s changing, what’s staying the same, an…

1
Digital SAT Math | Topics Breakdown 3:01

3M ago3:01

3:01

🎙 WizCast: Cracking the Digital SAT Math Section 🎙 How is the Digital SAT Math section structured? What’s the biggest scoring opportunity? And which topics should you prioritize to maximize your score? In this episode of WizCast – SAT Prep Podcasts by Wizako, hosts Lexa Wiz and Kai Quest answer the most pressing SAT Math questions: 🔹 How many quest…

1
Test Prep Dos and Don'ts with Rath Tutoring founder Eric Rath 46:01

5M ago46:01

46:01

If you're taking the SAT or ACT in the spring, it might be time to start thinking about test prep! Join Julia and special guest Eric Rath, Founder of Rath Tutoring, who has over twenty years of experience in test prep and tutoring, to talk about test prep dos and don'ts. Contact RathTutoring.com at [email protected] or 1-866-Rath-101 Find self-…

1
Making College Affordable with Peg Keough from College Aid Pro 43:47

6M ago43:47

43:47

With the cost of college climbing every year, Julia sat down with Peg Keough, the Director of Education at College Aid Pro to learn more about the ways students and families can make college more affordable by making informed decisions about financial aid! __________________ Create your College Aid Pro free account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/…

1
College Admissions for Homeschool Families with Michele Evard and Holly Ramsey 30:10

6M ago30:10

30:10

Julia is joined by Michele Evard and Holly Ramsey, the authors of College Unmazed: Your Guide to Design & Document Your Homeschool Journey, which helps homeschool families prepare for successful college applications to their dream universities. __________________ Go to https://www.collegeunmazed.com/homeschool and use code HOMESCHOOL10 for 10% disc…

1
Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC [Event Replay] 1:08:29

6M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

In this webinar-turned-podcast, hear the experts talk about how Scoir's foundational work with high school counselors benefits the work of colleges, too. Liz McGonigle, Managed Subscriptions Engagement Strategist at Scoir, Chris White from High Tech High, and Sebastian Brown from the University of Oregon share how Visits, Matches, and Parent/Guardi…

1
College Admissions for STEM Programs 43:25

6M ago43:25

43:25

Is your student applying to a STEM program and you need to know what to include? It's time to get into the world of admissions for STEM majors with our resident expert Christina! ________ Get a free consultation with Christina at March Consulting! Sign up for a test prep course with Julia at Higher Scores!…

1
Applying to Military Academies and ROTC with Lisa Rielage 41:21

6M ago41:21

41:21

Guest host Kat Clowes of March Consulting interviews military academy admissions expert Lisa Rielage from Admissions Decrypted! ______ Sign up for a free consultation with March Consulting! Check out Admissions Decrypted to work with Lisa! Explore the resources Lisa mentioned in the episode: Breaking Ice Breaking Glass by Sandra Stosz Service Acade…

1
Choosing a College Major 30:00

6M ago30:00

30:00

Working on college applications and not sure which major to choose? Will your application even be impacted by which program you're applying to? In short, yes! Join us for this episode as we get into the weeds on how and why to choose a college major before submitting your applications. ___________ For help with all of your major-related questions, …

1
Pro Tips for Effective Writing and Communication 40:28

7M ago40:28

40:28

In this episode, Chief Growth Officer at Scoir, Ashley Smith, and former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk chat all things effective communication! Whether you're a college-bound student writing your college essay or heading into the workforce and want to sharpen your skills, we're sharing our tips for breaking out of the 5 paragraph essay and s…

1
College Admissions Road Map 43:00

7M ago43:00

43:00

1
What's the deal with Test Optional college admissions? 28:46

7M ago28:46

28:46

If you have a junior or senior high school student and you're trying to decipher what "test optional" and "test blind" and "test required" mean, or if the school you wanted to apply to just switched back to "test required," or if you're hearing that no one needs the SAT anymore but that juuuust doesn't sound right, this is the episode for you. We'r…

1
The PSAT and National Merit Scholarship Program 22:36

7M ago22:36

22:36

Two test prep experts cover what the PSAT is, why it matters, and what you need to know about the National Merit scholarship program that could save you thousands of dollars on college! ______ Take the PSAT 2-in-1 course with Higher Scores Test Prep. Get help with scholarships with March Consulting.By Higher Scores Test Prep

1
The New SAT 40:10

8M ago40:10

40:10

The new Digital SAT is almost completely different from previous versions of the test, so Julia and Christina walk through all the important changes to the English and Math sections, how to prepare, and how to make sure your student and their device are ready for test day. _______ Prepare for the SAT or contact Higher Scores here. Learn whether you…

1
We're Back! - The Latest in College Admissions 25:09

8M ago25:09

25:09

Meet the new hosts of the College Checklist Podcast as we discuss all of the chaos and change in college admissions and test prep. _____ Get ready for the SAT or PSAT this fall with Julia at Higher Scores Test Prep! Contact her here. Or prepare for application season with Christina at March Consulting College Planners!…

1
Episode 268 - Jared Cooney Horvath – The Best Way to Use Technology for Learning 34:19

8M ago34:19

34:19

On episode 268, Alexis Avila speaks to returning guest Jared Cooney Horvath.Our Guest:Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. Jared has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard …

1
What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges 1:00:26

8M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Join Ciara and Erika, Senior Engagement Strategists at Scoir and college admissions marketing professionals, plus Abby deSilva, Inbound Marketing Strategist at Scoir and member of Gen Z, as they share strategies to authentically connect with Gen Z and thrive through today’s admissions challenges. They evaluate what students think about college admi…

1
A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2024 37:53

10M ago37:53

37:53

Our Chief Growth Officer, Ashley Smith, is joined by Peter Van Buskirk as he shares a recap of key takeaways and hot topics from this year's No Name Conference sessions. Take a listen as we discuss the FAFSA delays, how students can cope with the "achievement culture", and more. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
Episode 267 - Shirag Shemmassian - Choosing the Right Schools for Pre-Med Majors 23:27

11M ago23:27

23:27

On Episode 267, Alexis Avila speaks to Dr. Shirag Shemmassian, founder and admissions consultant of Shemmassian Academic Consulting. As a Cornell University graduate and Cornell admissions interviewer, Shirag knows what the best schools are looking for in prospective students during admissions interviews.On today’s episode Shirag and I talk about c…

1
Navigating College Choices: Counselor Tips for Student and Parent/Guardian Harmony 43:51

12M ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, host Kaila Brown, former high school counselor, and guest Aaron Fulk, Director of College Counseling at the University School of Nashville, offer insightful strategies for counselors in supporting students and families through the college decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of asking the right questions to encour…

1
Episode 266 - From Failing to Acing: The Secrets Behind My Academic Comeback 10:00

12M ago10:00

10:00

On Episode 266 of the new and improved Prepped and Polished Podcast, Alexis shares his academic struggles and how he was able to overcome them. We’ll discuss ways to achieve better grades in school such as: • Finding the right social circles that will help you thrive. • Finding mentors at school who will inspire you. • Refining your study skills so…

1
Navigating Higher Education Budgeting Amid the Changing Admissions Landscape 37:08

1y ago37:08

37:08

By 2027, the number of names nationally available for search will drop by 38%, according to Forbes. A shifting public perception of college and post-high school plans along with a drop in the young adult population has shrunk the pool of college applicants. With these enrollment and search cliffs, colleges are faced with the challenge (and opportun…

1
5 Essential To-Dos Before Junior Year 37:42

1+ y ago37:42

37:42

Back by popular demand, Tom from College Essay Guy Team joins us for this fun episode! We'll share 5 of the most essential tasks we recommend you complete BEFORE your junior year. So if you're a freshman, sophomore, or even a junior, listen for tips you won't want to miss! College Essay Guy Resources: College Essay Guy Website Explore 1-on-1 Servic…

1
5 Essential To-Dos Before Senior Year 43:37

1+ y ago43:37

43:37

What do Olivia Rodrigo and college application culture have in common? 🤔 In this episode, Tom from the College Essay Guy Team joins Elena to talk about this and much more! If you're an underclassman (freshman, sophomore, or junior) or even a senior, listen for the 5 essential things to complete BEFORE senior year. College Essay Guy Resources: Colle…

1
Getting to Know Colleges from Campus or the Couch 46:33

1+ y ago46:33

46:33

In this episode we're joined by Scoir team member with a background in admissions, Liz McGonigle! We dive into how college fairs and events typically work, how to engage with college reps, and fun ways to explore schools right from your couch! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirBy Scoir, Inc.

1
5 Things to Do During the Second Half of Senior Year 45:54

1+ y ago45:54

45:54

By winter break, you may have checked off a lot of your senior year To-Do list: applying to college, studying for exams, and of course, making memories! Wondering what to do with the rest of your senior year? In this episode, Elena from Scoir and Tom from College Essay Guy Team share their top 5 essential checklist items for you! College Essay Guy …

1
Don't Take the ACT if... 20:37

1+ y ago20:37

20:37

On this episode, Caleb and Jill dive into the controversial topic of whether you should take the ACT/SAT, or if you might be better off without it? They'll explore scenarios in which taking a standardized test is beneficial for you or not. Free Practice Test College CounselingBy Caleb & Jill

1
#265 - The Digital SAT Versus the Paper SAT 8:22

1+ y ago8:22

8:22

In Episode 265 of the Prepped and Polished Podcast, Aaron shares the differences between the Digital SAT and the ACT.The main differences are:1. The digital SAT is shorter than the paper SAT.2. There are more questions for the Reading Section on the digital version.3. The digital version allows calculator use throughout the entire test. There is a …

1
The Digital SAT Versus the ACT 7:37

1+ y ago7:37

7:37

In Episode 264 of the Prepped and Polished Podcast, Aaron shares the differences between the Digital SAT and the ACT.The main differences are:1. The Digital SAT is taken on a computer and the ACT is a paper test. There is a digital version of the ACT but it is currently available for international students only.2. The Digital SAT has adaptive diffi…

1
Tutoring Tips The Digital SAT Format and Structure 12:22

1+ y ago12:22

12:22

In Episode 263 of the Prepped and Polished Podcast, Aaron shares the differences in the Digital SAT's format and Structure.By Alexis Avila

1
The Ins and Outs of Applying with Scoir 36:24

1+ y ago36:24

36:24

Curious about what applying with Scoir is like? Want to hear what's new this year? This episode is for you! We'll dive into the ways applying with Scoir streamlines your college applications and the exciting updates we made to the experience this year! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirBy Scoir, Inc.

1
From Counselor to Counselor: How to Prep for the School Year 32:12

1+ y ago32:12

32:12

Hello August! A new school year is quickly approaching and we're excited to share some advice for our counselor community. In this episode, we're joined by previous college counselor with experience working in both private and public schools, Kelly Weber. During our conversation, we share ways counselors can prepare for back-to-school season, tips …

1
Thrifty College Tips: How To Dorm Shop on a Budget 30:27

2y ago30:27

30:27

Load up your shopping cart because, with these tips, you can get more of what you need for your dorm on a budget! In this episode, Elena and her sister Andrea talk about what they love most: finding things you need for less. We'll give you suggestions for where to shop, what student discount apps to download, and dorm tips we learned FROM college t…

1
The Digital SAT and Everything You Need to Know about Testing This Year 28:27

2y ago28:27

28:27

In this episode, we sit down with Celena from Test Innovators, our test prep partner! We cover the testing landscape, the main differences between the digital and paper SATs, how to prep, what colleges require, how to determine which test you should take (SAT v ACT), managing test day anxiety, and the role parents/guardians play in the testing proc…

1
A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2023 52:35

2y ago52:35

52:35

In this episode we're joined by former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk, who shares key takeaways from this year's No Name Conferences. We dive into the digital SAT, upcoming changes to the FAFSA, the impact of ChatGPT, learning environments, and more! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
The Truth with Meredith Vaughn 17:02

2y ago17:02

17:02

In today's episode, Jill has the pleasure of interviewing one of our Standard-Level Tutors, Meredith Vaughn. Meredith opens up about her high school experience, her college prep process, and the honest truth about trusting yourself. Listen to Meredith's interview to learn more. Meredith Vaughn Free Practice Test…

1
The Youth Mental Health Crisis: How We Can Help Our Students 48:28

2y ago48:28

48:28

In this episode we're joined by SEL experts, Dr. Dana Godek and Kelly Dolan Sapp for a conversation about the youth mental health crisis. We dive into what this means, how parents/guardians can approach checking in with their students, and practices we can take advantage of to support our students. Find Dr. Dana Godek & Kelly Dolan Sapp at edu-solv…

1
Do I take the ACT/SAT or not? 29:15

2y ago29:15

29:15

It's a question we hear often and there is a lot of talk surrounding the topic. Should students take the ACT or SAT? Caleb and Jill chat about which schools require it, which schools are test optional and which schools are test blind. Plus, within colleges which programs require an ACT/SAT. Free ACT/SAT Practice Test ACT Private Tutoring…

1
What To Ask On A College Visit 18:30

2y ago18:30

18:30

GRWM for a college visit 🤪 jk it's your college visit BUT I will be sharing questions that I definitely wish I had asked on my college visits! Whether you're listening in the car or are prepping in advance, this episode will give you things to look out for and questions to ask on your tour! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
5 Keys to Keep Your Student Debt to a Minimum 25:52

2y ago25:52

25:52

Before you make your final choice for college, listen to this episode! We are debunking the myth that students have to accrue a mountain of debt to go to college. 🙅‍♀️💰 Together with college expert and former Dean of Admissions, Peter Van Buskirk, we'll share tips and exactly what you and your family can do NOW in order to avoid burdensome college …

1
The Final Choice of a College: Tips for Getting It Right 40:54

2y ago40:54

40:54

College Decision Day is right around the corner! Still making your final choice? We've got tips for you! ⭐ We'll talk with college expert and former Dean of Admissions, Peter Van Buskirk, about what to do if you've been admitted OR are on the waitlist for schools, important things to consider (like fit and the financial aspect), and what you can do…

1
Tutoring Tips Three Tips for a 330+ GRE Score 5:19

2y ago5:19

5:19

In Episode 262 of the Prepped and Polished Podcast, Aaron shares three tips that students can use to boost their GRE scores.The three tips are:1. Create a Realistic Timeline:Decide when you want to start and when you actually want to take the test.2. Get in Plenty of Practice:Taking practice tests allows students to see where they are with each sec…

1
Family Bootcamp: Financial Aid 101 40:49

2y ago40:49

40:49

Get your pen and paper out because in this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on all things financial aid! 💰 In this fifth and final episode of our family mini-series, Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will share Financial Aid terms, helpful strategies, and even the exact questions you need to ask in this financial aid process. IMPORTANT NOTE: Since…

1
Family Bootcamp: Tips for Building a Productive College List 33:56

2y ago33:56

33:56

Is your junior beginning to build a college list? This episode is a great place to get started! 🌟 In this fourth episode of our family mini-series, Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will discuss how you can advise your student, with lots of tips including what kinds of colleges and how many students should have on their lists! Follow us on Instagram! Lea…

1
Family Bootcamp: Strategies for Managing the SAT/ACT Experience 28:14

2y ago28:14

28:14

To test or not to test? That is the question! 📝 In this third episode of our family mini-series, we explore how you can advise your student in the standardized testing experience! We'll go over the difference between the SAT and ACT, what super scoring and self-reporting mean, and tips for test preparation. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about …

1
Tutoring Tips: Three Tips for a 700+ GMAT Score 5:22

2y ago5:22

5:22

In Episode 261 of the Prepped and Polished Podcast, Aaron shares three tips that students can use to boost their GMAT scores about how to approach questions in the Quantitative Comparison section on the ISEE Math Test so students can boost their scores. The three tips are:1. Create a Realistic Timeline:Decide when you want to start and when you act…

1
Family Bootcamp: Why Course Selections Matter in the College Admissions Process 24:33

2y ago24:33

24:33

Should my student take another year of language classes? What about AP and Honors classes? 🤔 We'll answer these questions and more in this second episode of our family mini-series! Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will explore how your student's selection of high school classes can benefit them in college, and how they can help their academic record to …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Higher Scores Test Prep Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen