College Prep Workshops
College prep workshops at UMass Amherst offer high school students an essential toolkit for college preparedness: practical skills and knowledge to confidently navigate the college application process. Choose from two invaluable online workshops: learn SAT & ACT test prep strategies from bestselling test-prep author Brian Leaf, or craft a true-to-life personal essay using techniques from UMass Amherst's award-winning Writing Program. Or, join us on campus for a weeklong summer intensive covering admissions strategy, essay writing, test prep and more.
Our instructors will provide participants with fresh, up-to-date advice to help them succeed in the ever-evolving college admissions landscape. Students can expect a true workshop-style format, with plenty of opportunities to develop and practice new skills, and get individual feedback in each topic.
Student Profile
Open to current 9th - 12th graders in high school. College prep workshops can be taken on their own, or in tandem with one of our residential or online pre-college programs during the summer.
Year-Round Sessions
The college prep workshops are offered year-round: in Fall, Spring & Summer.
Build confidence, practice skills and be test ready
This online workshop is geared towards high school students to learn strategies for success and build confidence to perform your best on the SAT and ACT. Led by bestselling, in-demand test-prep author Brian Leaf.
October 12 & 19, 2024 | Live synchronous sessions will meet Saturdays from 1:00 - 4:00pm (EST)
How to write an unforgettable college essay that reflects you
Did you know the college essay can be the most important part of the application process? This online workshop for high school students is focused on developing the skills needed to write a successful college application essay, from first draft to final product. Have your questions answered and create a compelling essay that truly reflects you.
October 27 - November 17, 2024 | Live synchronous sessions will meet Sundays from 1:00 - 2:30pm (EST)
The College Application Intensive is a comprehensive in-person week-long intensive dedicated to understanding and preparing for the college application process. A range of key topics will be covered, including an exploration of personal strengths and interests; college majors and career paths; admissions strategy; essay writing; and standardized test prep.
Summer 2025 dates TBA
This weeklong in-person test prep immersion workshop helps high school students gear up for the SAT and ACT exams in a short timeframe. Gain a comprehensive understanding of all question types and boost your performance through full-length practice tests.
Summer 2025 dates TBA