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Academic Allies: A Data-Driven, Affordable Approach to Test Prep

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USA News February 28, 2025
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Academic Allies: A Data-Driven, Affordable Approach to Test Prep
Academic Allies: A Data-Driven, Affordable Approach to Test Prep Over the last year, Academic Allies has become the go-to test-prep and AP Exam Service. Founded by Aditya Palekar, who earned a mid-1500s SAT score and a full-tuition scholarship, the organization aims to make high-quality test preparation more accessible. Recognizing that conventional tutoring services often charge upwards of $150 per hour, Academic Allies was established to provide a more affordable solution. The organization emphasizes data-driven strategies to help students improve their test performance while keeping costs manageable. But as Aditya and the team understand, the most important part of any tutoring are the results. They average a 5-star review on Google, 100% of their students have received a 4 or 5 on the AP Exam, and the average SAT improvement is 220 points. Few other tutoring centers can compare to those numbers. So let’s dive in to see their approach and what works. Student Outcomes and Cost Comparison Academic Allies reports that students enrolled in its programs experience an average SAT score increase of approximately 220 points. This figure is based on internal data collected from student performance before and after program participation. While improvement rates can vary by individual, this reported increase suggests a competitive outcome compared to national averages for standardized test prep programs. For instance, Princeton Review and all other major test prep providers are in the 150-180 point area. The organization also offers pricing that remains lower than many traditional tutoring services, with bootcamp rates set at $15 per hour or less. While costs for test prep services vary widely, this model provides a budget-friendly option for students seeking structured preparation. Methodology and Instructional Approach Academic Allies attributes its effectiveness to a structured, data-informed methodology. Academic Allies firmly believes that when data is used in academics, the absolute best results are shown. So, what exactly is their secret sauce? Their founder, Aditya Palekar, shared some insight into it. Step 1: Diagnostic Assessment: Immediately upon entering a program, a student is provided a Diagnostic Assessment, which is a full-length exam. The purpose of this exam provides data on the student. And not simply, how many Math or Reading they got wrong, but more about, what types of questions did they get wrong AND right, the amount of time taken per question, and what level 3 question would that fit under (deeper level question). Step 2: Structured Approach: Each week is very similar from a structure perspective. There is HW due twice a week, weekly exams, and sessions on the same day and time (if possible). This sense of routine often gets engrained into each student’s mind to ensure that they can tackle their week. Step 3: As students complete weekly homework and weekly exams, that is all feeding into Academic Allies backend database. Thus, the more work each student does, the more tailored questions they can be provided for personalized studying. A datasheet is created (like pictured below) to share with students and parents with regular updating!
Step 4: Personalized Study Plan: Every student adjusts, grows, and develops differently. Thus, plans need to be changed constantly. We have a personalized structured plan that each tutor works with students with. And when things change, we adjust. For instance, we’ve had a number of students prepare for a later SAT test date and given improvement, they are now taking it earlier. An amazing story like that happens very often! Step 5: Test Day: Test Day tips and tricks are shared, specifically things that worked for us as former students. One of our favorite ones to provide is to try chewing gum (if allowed) as that can help with focus! Student and Instructor Perspectives Student and parent feedback highlights positive experiences with the program. Some participants have reported significant score improvements, and instructors come from strong academic backgrounds. For example, tutors include individuals who have scored in the top 1% of standardized tests and attend highly ranked universities. Beyond test preparation, Academic Allies aims to foster an engaging and supportive learning environment. The organization’s instructional approach prioritizes not only score improvement but also skill development that benefits students in broader academic settings. More Information For those interested in learning more about Academic Allies or enrolling in their programs, additional information is available on their official website. The organization also provides updates and community engagement on its Facebook page. In an industry where test preparation often comes at a high cost, Academic Allies presents a structured, data-driven approach designed to help students enhance their scores through personalized and data-driven methods.
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