About Signet Education

Founded in 2005 and based in Cambridge, MA, Signet Education takes a whole-student approach to college admissions consulting, integrating academic tutoring, test preparation, organizational coaching, and admissions guidance under one roof. Their team consists of experienced educators—86% holding a Master's or PhD—along with admissions consultants who are former officers from highly selective universities. Signet has helped over 10,000 students and offers all sessions virtually, providing flexibility for families nationwide. Their rates start at $250/hour for tutoring and $300/hour for admissions consulting.

Services

Signet Education provides a comprehensive suite of services that spans the full arc of a student's academic journey, from middle school through graduate school. Their four core offerings—subject tutoring, standardized test preparation, admissions consulting, and academic coaching—are designed to work in concert, addressing not just the application but the student behind it.

Consultants work to identify schools that align with each student's abilities, values, and personality by examining their activities, accomplishments, writing, academic history, and life story.

Strengths

• Signet's integrated model of tutoring, test prep, coaching, and admissions consulting allows for a uniquely holistic approach to student development.

• Their team of Ivy League-educated educators provides high-caliber, one-on-one instruction tailored to individual learning needs.

• A strong emphasis on self-discovery, motivation, and executive function skills sets Signet apart from consultants focused solely on applications.

Weaknesses

• Signet's admissions consulting team includes fewer former admissions officers compared to firms built entirely around that credential.

• Published results and acceptance data are limited, making it harder for prospective families to evaluate outcomes.

Summary

Signet Education stands out for its integrated, whole-student model that goes well beyond traditional admissions consulting. By combining academic tutoring, test prep, organizational coaching, and admissions guidance, Signet is well-suited for families looking for a single partner to support their student's growth across multiple dimensions. Led by President and COO Sheila Akbar, PhD, the firm emphasizes self-discovery and authentic development over a transactional approach to applications. We recommend Signet Education to families who value a holistic, long-term investment in their student's academic and personal growth and want the convenience of coordinated services from a single trusted provider.