August 2025 – What We Covered

If you’ve been scrolling through the Abbey Gates School Store blog this month, you’ve seen a mix of study hacks, college advice, qualification breakdowns, and a deep dive into disability benefits. Below is a quick rundown of each story and the practical takeaways you can start using right now.

Exam Prep & Sleep Tips

Our article “Is 7 Hours of Sleep Enough Before an Exam?” pulls back the curtain on the science behind late‑night study sessions. The short answer: seven hours can work, but only if your sleep quality is high. We explain how to lock in deep‑sleep phases, why a consistent bedtime beats cramming, and three simple tricks – a cool room, a short walk, and a screen‑free wind‑down – that boost memory retention. Readers who tried the routine reported steadier focus and higher scores, so give it a go before your next test.

College Admissions, Qualifications, and Disability Payments

Harvard’s preference between IB and AP was the hot topic in “Does Harvard Prefer IB or AP?”. The bottom line: Harvard looks for rigor, not a specific program. We compare average IB scores to AP exam averages, show which subjects carry the most weight, and share a checklist for building a standout application – strong essays, leadership roles, and genuine passion matter more than the label on your transcript.

Next, “A Levels vs. US High School Diplomas” untangles the knot between UK and US qualifications. If you’re planning a transatlantic move, you’ll learn how A Levels stack up against the US high school GPA and AP credits, which colleges treat them as equivalent, and where you might need extra coursework. The guide also highlights scholarship opportunities that specifically target A Level graduates, so you don’t miss out on financial aid.

Finally, the disability guide, “What Is the Average Disability Check? Guide to Disability Payments in 2025”, answers the numbers most people avoid. We break down the national average, variations by state, and the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The piece also offers a step‑by‑step plan for filing a claim, common pitfalls to dodge, and tips for boosting your approved amount through medical documentation.

All four posts share a common thread: real‑world advice you can act on today. Whether you’re tweaking your sleep schedule, polishing a college app, figuring out how your A Levels translate, or navigating disability benefits, the August archive gives you clear steps without the jargon.

Got a question about any of these topics? Drop a comment below or reach out through our contact page – we love helping students and families turn information into action.

Is 7 Hours of Sleep Enough Before an Exam? Science, Success, and Smart Strategies

Is 7 Hours of Sleep Enough Before an Exam? Science, Success, and Smart Strategies

Is 7 hours of sleep enough before an exam? Discover real science, effects on grades, and practical tips to ace tests without sacrificing rest.

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Does Harvard Prefer IB or AP? Comparing Their Impact on Your Application

Does Harvard Prefer IB or AP? Comparing Their Impact on Your Application

Is Harvard looking for IB or AP courses? Discover the real admissions preferences, tips, and strategies to make your application stand out.

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A Levels vs. US High School Diplomas: Understanding Academic Equivalency

A Levels vs. US High School Diplomas: Understanding Academic Equivalency

Breaks down what A Levels are equivalent to in America, how they compare to US high school diplomas and APs, and what this means for students planning transatlantic study.

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What Is the Average Disability Check? Guide to Disability Payments in 2025

What Is the Average Disability Check? Guide to Disability Payments in 2025

Wondering how much most disability checks are in 2025? This in-depth guide covers the real numbers, eligibility, benefit types, and expert tips for getting support.

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