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!
A gold star badge that says "College Raptor Top 25 Best Private Colleges 2019".
2019 university rankings

Top 25 Best Private Colleges | 2019 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Many of the most prestigious colleges in the country are private schools. Unlike public schools that are funded by state and local governments, private colleges are usually funded by tuition, fees, alumni donations, or other private sources. Many people think that private schools are too expensive for them to attend. However, private schools are often …
College Raptor Rankings star badge that says "Top 50 Best US Colleges 2019".
2019 university rankings

Top 50 Best Colleges in the US | 2019 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The Top 50 Best Colleges in the US is our most-selective and most prestigious rankings list. The schools in this category are the very best in the country. We’ve analyzed thousands of colleges from around the US and selected the best of the four-year institutions throughout the nation. This list includes schools of all sizes, …
Both teachers and students can use the ACT Aspire.
ACT & SAT

What Is ACT Aspire?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Test scores really do play a big role in helping students get accepted into the college of their choice, especially if that college also happens to be highly competitive. Preparation can be daunting, even for teachers and parents. This is where ACT Aspire may be able to help. What Is It? ACT Aspire is a …
Should you refinance all of your student loans?
questions & answers

Should I Refinance ALL Of My Loans?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
Many college students end up taking out loans to pay for college. In turn, they graduate with some amount of student loan debt. Student loan refinancing is the preferred solution for borrowers looking for a way to lower their monthly payments, get a lower interest rate, or otherwise renegotiate the terms of their loans. This …
Check out these international relations scholarships!
scholarships

Scholarships For International Relations / Affairs Majors

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
A major in international relations is a detailed study of the interactions between different nations across the planet. In recent years international relations have expanded to outer space. Any probes sent out must also adhere to treaties created in consultation with international relations experts. This field has several challenges ahead and needs to adapt quickly …
Make a college visit checklist so you don't forget anything
college search

11 Things You Need to Check Out During a College Visit

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: College visits before enrollment help students determine if a school is right for them. To get a better feel for the college, look at classrooms, dorms, libraries, and dining halls. Explore the surrounding town to learn more about things to do, transportation, off-campus housing, and the community. Whether you’ve already chosen your dream …
ACT & SAT

How To Become A National Merit Scholar

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Being awarded a National Merit Scholarship is not for the academically squeamish. Only the top 1% of students who take the PSAT / NMSQT achieve a score high enough to qualify. That does not mean you should give up all hope however. With test preparation and a mindset for success, you can achieve a National …
A male student is reading something on a white paper.
questions & answers

Should I Consolidate ALL Of My Student Loans?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
By the time you graduate, you probably have taken multiple loans. This can make the monthly payments quite overwhelming as you have to keep track of different amounts to be paid back over different dates every single month. This is where the option to consolidate multiple student loans into one can come as a huge …

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