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!
Types of academic calendars
college search

Types of academic calendars

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 12, 2025
Key takeaways Many colleges follow a semester plan, with two 15- to 18-week terms per academic calendar. Other schools use shorter terms through trimesters, quarters, 4-1-4 schedules, and block plans. As you build your college list, determine your learning preferences and compare academic calendars to determine which schedules are best for you. In high school, …
A stack of coins with a clock in the background.
financial aid

5 Mistakes That Cost You Financial Aid Money

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
Getting any financial aid can help make it easier for you to attend the college of your dreams without falling too deep into debt. With several financial aid opportunities that you can pursue, your goal should be to get the maximum financial aid that you are eligible for. Unfortunately, many students decrease the financial aid …
You'll be asked to list any assets you or your parents have, but what counts as an asset?
questions & answers

What Counts As An “Asset” On The FAFSA?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 26, 2025
When filing the FAFSA, you and your parents have to report certain assets Your assets are used to calculate how much need-based federal aid you are eligible for The FAFSA will verify your assets before calculating your eligibility To qualify for federal financial aid for college, you have to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application …
Here's when not to visit a college campus
college search

When NOT To Visit A Campus

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
You know all the reasons why you should visit the campus and naturally, you would make plans to visit during the most convenient time. For most people, this would be during the summer break. Not only is a school out so you won’t be missing classes but summer is also the best time to travel. …
White calculator over a paper.
financial aid

How to Use a Net Price Calculator 

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Figuring out the actual cost of attending any particular college can be tricky. More often than not, students do not pay the published tuition fee amount or the ‘sticker price’. The actual amount they end up paying could be a little or a lot lower, depending on the scholarships and grants that they have been …
These campuses have easily accessible vegan food and are vegan-friendly.
college comparisons

5 Vegan-Friendly Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you are a strict vegan looking for vegan-friendly campuses, you are in luck. With more and more people turning over to veganism, an increasing number of colleges are going out of their way to make it easy for vegan students to follow this strict diet that excludes any food derived from animals or animal …

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