college admissions

Understand The Difference Between Test Optional, Test Flexible, And Test Blind

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Test optional, test flexible, and test blind refer to admissions policies with reference to the SAT or ACT. There may be slight variations between colleges as to exactly what these terms imply. In general: Test Optional ‘Test Optional’ means it is not mandatory for students to submit their SAT or ACT scores as part of …

ACT & SAT

A Guide to Choosing the ACT or SAT

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Most colleges specify that they require test scores in an application—though almost all students will take either test. Depending on where you live in the US, one test or the other could be much more popular, and so your high school may only offer one. Taking the other might be trickier, but could be well …

questions & answers

What Does “Account Closed Due To Transfer” Mean & Does It Affect Your Credit Record?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 5, 2025

When you consolidate your student loans, it gets transferred into a completely new loan with a new account and a new lender. When this happens, your old loan account becomes redundant but it still stays on record as part of your credit history. Federal Consolidation Loan & Credit Scores If you check your credit report …

careers & internships

7 In-Demand Career Options With A Psychology Degree

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

A degree in psychology helps you expand your knowledge of human behavior and thus sets the foundation for a wide range of immensely satisfying career options. Listed below are some of the most in-demand psychology degree jobs. Substance Abuse Counseling As a substance abuse counselor, you would work to help your clients who are addicted …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Southeast Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Known for its good food and rich history, the Southeast is also home to several hidden gem schools. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the southeast: AR, LA, AL, MS, FL, GA, TN, SC, NC, VA, and KY. To …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Midwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Midwest is America’s heartland, and often an overlooked region of the country. But these “Flyover” states have a number of hidden gems among them that shouldn’t be counted out. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the northwest: IA, IL, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Northwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Northwest region of the United States is known for its scenic beauty. There are a number of hidden gem-worthy colleges in the region as well. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the Northwest: AK, Northern CA, ID, MT, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Southwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Known for its dynamic landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife, the Southwest region should also get credit for its higher education programs. A number of hidden gems reside in these states, and deserve the spotlight. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the southwest: AZ, NV, NM, UT, CO, TX, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Public Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

There is a pervading stereotype that private colleges are the ideal places to pursue a higher education—however there are numerous public colleges and universities that rival their private counterparts. This Hidden Gems list highlights the best public colleges that are diamonds in the rough. To qualify as a College Raptor Hidden Gem, a school must …