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OUR PROGRAMS
During this time of great change, our online programs serve students in grades 6-12 as well as college, and are adaptable for supporting success whether learning is in-person, hybrid, or online. Choose from our Study Skills or College Planning programs to see how our holistic approach provides everything a student needs to be successful now, to get into the best colleges, and to be ready for work and life!
Get Higher Grades, Improve Test Scores, Learn Essential Milestones
Study Skills
6-10th Grade
Learn MoreCollege Planning, College Applications, Admission Decisions, & College Preparation
College Planning
10-12th Grade
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What People Are Saying
[Novella Prep] was terrific to have as coaches and counselors as our daughter navigated the college application process. Their hard work to help our daughter explore the best options for her interests and profile set her on the right course… Thanks in no small part to Novella’s support, our daughter secured offers of admissions to a range of compelling options and is excited to start her university pursuits in the fall.
– J.W.
Novella Prep was extremely helpful for editing my college essay. We went through a few different edits of my essay and got to my final draft. I ended up getting into my top school with the essay we worked on – definitely recommend!
– S.V.
We had the pleasure of working with [Novella Prep] this past year as our daughter was preparing to work on her college application process… most importantly with making her list of schools, working on her essays and evaluating the schools where she was admitted. Thanks to [their] guidance and expertise our daughter will be entering NYU – her first choice – this Fall.
– A.B.
About the Founder
With 20 years of experience working in admissions, development, teaching, and researching, Novella Prep founder and educator Dr. Di Giacomo brings a depth of relevant knowledge to families in the Westchester County, NY area.
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FAQs
How do I choose between the SAT and ACT?
While there is no strategic benefit to taking the SAT or ACT in terms of admission, there are some differences to the format and item types. Novella Tip: Take a free practice SAT and ACT to see what feels like a better fit for you.
How many colleges should be on my college list?
Many students are applying to ten colleges, which means starting with a list of 20 makes sense. Consider some schools, initially, that take into account family and friends's recommendations, but ultimately, use your results from Naviance, PSAT score, GPA and major to refine your list. Make sure it is balanced in terms of how select. For more information, here is a helpful video.
Is it true SAT Subject Tests will no longer be offered? Are standardized tests still important for admissions?
As of January 2021, The College Board announced they will no longer be offering SAT Subject Tests to U.S. students in an effort to streamline the application process for colleges and prospective students alike. Instead, your student should focus their efforts on the Reading and Writing & Language components of the SAT, and look to utilize subject-specific AP courses and exams to demonstrate mastery in a discipline's core competencies. For more guidance on the advantages of AP tests, here is a helpful video on this topic.
Study Skills vs. academic tutoring: which gets better results?
If study skills is like cardio training, and tutoring is like the skill to play a sport, we know that the foundation is endurance and the fundamentals. Same with school. Start with an evaluation of your study habits, routines, and results from your current level of effort, and then consider tutoring only if still necessary. Otherwise, tutoring without fundamentals is a costly bandaid that creates dependency. See this video to learn more.
When should I start college planning?
The best way to start college planning is right after receiving your PSAT score, particularly for sophomores, and of course for juniors. The reason? The PSAT provides an early indication of your future SAT or ACT score, and coupled with GPA and potentially AP scores, provides a powerful tool for admission officers to utilize for admissions decisions, and therefore, for you as well! But, planning in the 10th grade means becoming aware of longer term goals and mindsets, approached at a pace that is comfortable for the student as a means toward both personal growth and planning practicality. Plus, you will need to know what requirements you will need to fulfill while there is still time to meet those needs! For tips on the visits, watch this video.