College Raptor Staff

Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!
dorm room items
student life

28 Must Have Items for Your Freshman Dorm Room

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 20, 2026
Key Takeaway Packing for college? We’ve made your college dorm checklist complete with everything you’ll need and want. Here are 28 must-have items for your freshman dorm room: Sheets Pillows Mattress Topper Blankets Towels Wall Art Lights Rugs Picture Frames Storage Portable Drawers Calendars & Planners Whiteboard Desk Organizers Laundry Hamper Lamp Power Strip Fan …
college comparisons

Pros and Cons of Public vs. Private Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There’s plenty of myths and commonly held beliefs about public schools vs. private ones. But what are the concrete differences? What’s a misconception? Is there a difference between a state-funded school and a privately-funded one? Is one better than the other? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each so you can better …
Students sitting in a huge university classroom seen from behind.
college majors & minors

What is Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 5, 2024
An Interdisciplinary studies major is any major field that has two or more distinct programs that are integrated through a unifying theme. A major benefit of an interdisciplinary major is that you can customize the major to suit your needs and develop a highly refined skill set. Examples of interdisciplinary studies can include: Fashion Design …
A student walking in Rawson Hall at Grinnell College campus.
financial aid

What You Can Do to Be Proactive Before FAFSA Opens

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 25, 2024
FAFSA is opening just around the corner. Here are some things you can do now so you are ready to go once it opens. First, A Few Basics of FAFSA What is the FAFSA? FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is an application that college students must fill out to be eligible …
Aerial view of hand is solving a math problem on white paper with a black calculator on the desk.
ACT & SAT

What is the Difference Between the ACT and SAT?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 20, 2023
The ACT and SAT are standardized tests that colleges use to assess how prepared a student is to take college-level courses. Taking the ACT and/or the SAT can increase your chances of getting into the college of your choice. The major differences between the ACT and SAT are in the science section (SAT doesn’t have …
Silver US dime closeup.
student loans

How To Discharge A Federal Student Loan

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 25, 2025
When you take out federal student loans, your debt does not go away until you have the paid off all loans in their entirety. If you are struggling to make your monthly payments, there are forbearance and deferment programs available that help defer the payments for up to three years but at the end of …

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