Aralia’s “Helpful Information” blog is an excellent resource for students, parents, and teachers who want to stay informed on the latest trends and best practices in education. We provide guidance, tips, and strategies that can help students achieve their goals and prepare for their future. Join our community and stay updated with our regularly posted blog content.
With summer just around the corner, we bring you 8 major international writing competitions for summer 2026 suitable for high school students to participate in or prepare for! If you have a passion for writing and hope to improve your writing skills, participating in writing competitions is the perfect way to enhance your soft skills!
Looking for an exceptional high school experience in one of America’s most innovative cities? Explore the top boarding high schools in San Francisco, where students benefit from academic excellence, a diverse community, and unique access to world-class universities and tech opportunities.
Canada is not only known for having some of the nicest people in the world, but they are also recognized worldwide as ranked 4 in Education according to US News. In this article we will explore ten top ranked international high schools in Canada!
As the largest and most developed city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is home to some of the best international schools in the country. In this article, Aralia has compiled a list of the top eight international schools in Ho Chi Minh City, recognized for their academic programs, faculty quality, modern facilities, and outstanding student achievements.
College applications represent a stressful process for most students. Essay writing can be especially challenging, as you need to write and optimize your essays for each school. In today’s digital age, artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every industry, and college admissions is no exception. U.S. News & World Report recently made headlines with its acquisition of Sups, an innovative AI-powered platform that guides students through the admissions journey. If you’re a student or parent navigating the college application process, this tool might be a game-changer.
Do You Know Sups, U.S. News’ Latest AI College Advising Tool? Read More »
In May 2025, the College Board transitioned the majority of AP Exams to a digital format. With over 3 million students expected to take nearly 6 million AP Exams in spring 2025, this effort marks a significant shift in the Advanced Placement experience for students, teachers, and schools. Read below to learn more about the change and what it means for students taking the AP exams this year and in the future!
Writing a compelling college application essay is one of the most important parts of your college application. With so many details to consider, including content, grammar, structure, and deadlines, it’s easy to make critical errors that can weaken your application. In this article, we’ll explore common mistakes students make in college essays and how you can avoid them.
When applying to college, many schools, especially the most selective and prestigious ones, will require students to complete supplemental essays in addition to the common application essays. What are the differences between common app essays and supplemental essays, and how can you use both essays to build strong applications? In this article, we will go over everything you need to know!
Common App Essays vs. Supplemental Essays: What’s the Difference? Read More »
If you’re applying to colleges in the U.S., you’ve likely heard about the importance of the personal statement. It’s your chance to speak directly to admissions officers and show them who you are beyond your grades and test scores. In this article, we will discuss five effective ways to begin your statement and capture the attention of admissions officers.
Introducing the top 7 entrepreneurship competitions that students should pay attention to and potentially apply!
7 High School Entrepreneurship Competitions in 2025-2026 Read More »
The SSP Summer Program is a prestigious five-week residential research experience designed for high school juniors with a strong interest in STEM. In this article, we will go over every detail about the program!
Everything You Need to Know About the SSP Summer Program 2026 Read More »
Boarding schools have long been preferred for students planning to begin their U.S. education journey in high school, offering a secure environment and comprehensive support services. Among all U.S. states, California stands out as one of the most popular destinations for international students. In this article, let’s explore California’s education system and the top 8 boarding high schools in California!
Summer is more than time off from school—it’s also an opportunity to broaden your knowledge, strengthen your critical thinking, and connect with peers worldwide. The John Locke Institute, a prestigious educational organization based in the UK, has designed special summer learning programs for students passionate about academics and self-development. Let’s explore these exciting summer programs with Aralia and discover why they are among the most competitive academic programs!
Explore the John Locke Institute’s Summer Programs Read More »
As graduation season unfolds across campuses, university auditoriums are filled with celebration, proud families, and graduates in caps and gowns. Among the most anticipated moments of these commencement ceremonies are the commencement speakers. These speeches not only bring inspiration and encouragement but also share powerful life lessons and messages of hope with the next generation.
Commencement Speakers in 2025: From Ivy League Icons to Unconventional Voices Read More »
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in an era of remarkable capabilities. AI can now generate text, translate languages, and even answer complex questions with impressive speed and accuracy. For students navigating the demanding process of applying to universities, especially the task of crafting compelling essays and research papers, these advancements might spark a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Will AI take over the very personal and crucial task of writing?
Master the common application essays with Aralia’s detailed step-by-step guide! Today, we will provide suggestions and advice on how to write an impactful essay that will capture the admission officer’s attention.
4 Steps to Write Common Application Essays 2023-2024 Read More »
College readiness is an important part of the transition from high school to college. To set incoming college students up for success, it’s important to develop essential skills and prepare the mind for a new learning environment. One great way to do this is by reading! Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, reading can help students gain new knowledge and cultivate critical thinking skills. This blog will explore 15 summer reads 2021-2022 perfect for incoming college students to prepare them for the upcoming semester.
15 Summer Reads 2021-2022 for Incoming College Students Read More »
Participating in extracurricular activities is a great way to make your college application stand out from the rest. While engaging in activities that reflect your unique interests and passions, you can also build life-long friendships, develop useful skills, and create connections in your community. From volunteer work to sports teams, there are countless extracurricular activities for high school students to choose from that can enrich their lives and give them an edge when applying for colleges. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most popular extracurricular activities available today and how they can help students prepare for college applications.
Popular Extracurricular Activities for College Applications Read More »
When applying to U.S. colleges, students typically expect one of two responses: an acceptance or a rejection. However, many applicants also receive a letter informing them that they’ve been waitlisted or deferred. What do these terms actually mean? Do you still have a chance of getting into your dream school? And what can you do to improve your odds? In this article, Aralia will walk you through everything you need to know about college waitlists and deferrals in the college admissions process.
Understanding College Waitlists and Deferrals: What They Mean and What You Can Do Read More »
The ACT is a popular standardized test for high school students applying to college in the United States. However, if you’re living outside the U.S. and planning to take the ACT, you might be wondering: Is the test different for international students? The short answer is yes; while the core test remains the same, there are key differences in how and when the ACT is administered in the U.S. versus internationally.
What’s the Difference Between ACT U.S. and ACT International? Read More »
Summer break is more than just downtime—it’s the perfect chance to get ahead! This article will introduce a summer guide for students entering grades 9–12 that helps you optimize your break with tailored to-do lists. Organized clearly and highly practical, the summer guide for high school students offers year-by-year recommendations to help students make the most of their summer.
Summer Guide for High School Students: Your Grade-by-Grade Summer Checklist Read More »
Taiwan is recognized as one of the top destinations in Asia for international education. With its modern infrastructure, high standard of living, and welcoming environment for expatriates, the island offers a strong foundation for global learning. International high schools in Taiwan cater specifically to foreign passport holders, resulting in diverse, multicultural student bodies. These schools predominantly follow the American curriculum, the International Baccalaureate (IB), or a combination of both.
William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language, has held a central place in U.S. education for nearly two centuries. His works are widely read in U.S. high schools, discussed in university lectures, adapted into films, and performed by students on stages across the country. But why does Shakespeare remain so influential in American classrooms? Today, we will discuss reasons why Shakespeare is still taught in high schools.
Why Is Shakespeare Taught in Schools in the United States Read More »
Looking for a summer law internship? Check out our list of 10 law internships for high school students. This article covers programs in New York City, Massachusetts, Atlanta, Dallas, Baltimore, Nashville, Memphis, and more, making it easy to find an option in your preferred location. Most programs are paid and require a selective application process, with at least one interview, before placing you into a law firm or government legal office.
Hong Kong is home to some of the most prestigious—and expensive—international schools in the world and is a magnet for families seeking high-quality global education. Admission into these elite institutions is competitive, reflecting their academic excellence and world-class facilities. Below is a list of the top 10 international high schools in Hong Kong, each distinguished by its curriculum, university placements, and unique educational offerings.
Columbia University hosts a challenging and intellectually stimulating essay contest for high school students interested in pursuing the pre-law track in college. Each year, the Columbia Undergraduate Law Review (CULR) High School Essay Contest chooses different topics for students to argue their stance in written form, preparing them for the briefs and defense papers they will write when studying law at Columbia University. This blog covers everything you need to know to succeed in the 2026 CULR High School Essay Contest.
Everything You Need to Know About the CULR High School Essay Contest Read More »
In the 2025 admissions cycle, a significant shift occurred as many U.S. universities reinstated the requirement for applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. This marks a surprising turn after years of a “test-optional” policy. In this article, Aralia explores the recent wave of “test-optional” policies in the U.S., the reasons behind the return of SAT/ACT scores in admissions decisions, and strategies for effectively submitting standardized test scores.
Choosing a college major is among the most important and often overwhelming decisions for high school students planning to study in the United States. With thousands of options, including double majors and minors/concentrations, understanding your interests, strengths, and career goals is crucial. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about selecting a major, including top-paying fields, trending careers, and practical tips to help you decide.
What Should I Major In? A Guide for High School Students Going to College Read More »
The 2025 U.S. News & World Report Law School Rankings have officially been released, bringing a mix of expected results and surprising shifts among the nation’s top legal institutions. As one of the country’s most influential law school rankings, the U.S. News & World Report list is closely watched by prospective students, legal educators, and practicing professionals. Let’s discover the latest changes in this year’s top 50 law school rankings in the U.S.
2025 U.S. News & World Report Law School Rankings: Key Highlights and Changes Read More »
If you have a passion for uncovering stories of the past, the Rubincam Youth Writing Competition is the perfect opportunity for you! It allows students to hone their interest in genealogy and deepen their research skills. In this article, we will discuss the ins and outs of the competition, from eligibility, submission guidelines, and tips and tricks to help you stand out!
Rachel Carson was a pioneering biologist and writer who raised global awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. To honor her legacy, there’s a creative and meaningful opportunity just for you—the Rachel Carson Intergenerational Sense of Wonder/Sense of the Wild Contest. This contest invites students to team up with someone from a different generation—like a teacher, grandparent, neighbor, or family friend—and explore nature together. If you’re passionate about the environment, storytelling, or photography, read on to learn more about this exciting contest.
Discover why English proficiency tests are crucial for U.S. college admissions. Learn how these scores assess your academic readiness and the top universities’ score requirements for international students.
As America’s higher education landscape continues to evolve, Forbes has released its 2025 list of the “New Ivies”—20 universities, comprised of ten 10 public and 10 private institutions, that are reshaping what it means to provide elite higher education in the United States.
Forbes Unveils 2025 “New Ivies”: 20 Universities Redefining Academic Excellence Read More »
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is a program that offers financial support and connects students to a world of networking opportunities with like-minded peers. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, like eligibility requirements, the selection process, scholarship benefits, and key deadlines.
All About the Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship Read More »
The International Psychology Olympiad (IPsyO) is a prestigious online competition for high school students worldwide. Winning a gold medal in this competition can significantly boost your college applications, especially for fields like psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral sciences. Let’s dive deeper into the Olympiad.
All About the International Psychology Olympiad (IPsyO) Read More »
If you’re a high school student in the U.S. preparing for college, you’ve likely heard of standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, or even English proficiency exams like the IELTS and TOEFL for international applicants. Over the past decade, many U.S. colleges and universities shifted to test-optional admissions policies, meaning students were not required to submit standardized test scores. However, in the 2025 admissions cycle, several top universities in the U.S. reinstated standardized testing requirements. This article will explore the most common standardized tests for high schoolers required by U.S. colleges, recent policy changes, and how students can strategically approach testing in the current admissions landscape.
4 Types of Standardized Exams for High Schoolers Read More »
Running a student newspaper may seem like a niche pursuit, but it’s one of the most dynamic and rewarding activities a high school student can take on. From writing and editing to leading a team and shaping campus dialogue, working on the high school newspaper helps students build essential skills in communication, leadership, and critical thinking while making a real impact in their community.
In addition to selecting the right university, choosing the right state for studying college in the U.S. is also a challenging decision for both students and parents. What factors should be considered when choosing a state? Are there any important things to keep in mind when learning about the lifestyle, characteristics, and culture of U.S. states? These questions will be answered in the article “How to Choose the Best U.S. State for College: A Comprehensive Guide.”
How to Choose the Best U.S. State for College: A Comprehensive Guide Read More »
Discover why many top U.S. private schools require Latin as part of their curriculum. Learn about the academic benefits of studying Latin, its impact on language skills, and how it can enhance your Ivy League college applications.
Why Private Schools Require Latin: Key Benefits for Ivy League Admissions Read More »
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping countless industries, and college admissions are no exception. As more schools utilize AI to support their evaluation processes, students and families need to understand what this shift means for them and how they can stand out in the new system. Read below to learn how AI is changing the college admissions process!
How AI is Changing the College Admissions Process Read More »
