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!
Students on Northwestern's campus -- wondering "what's the best college for me?"
college search

8 Questions to Help Narrow Your College List

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 10, 2025
How many schools are on your first list of potential colleges? Between scholarship applications and ACT/SAT prep, you likely won’t be able to send applications to every single institution that interests you – much less visit them all. Instead, you’ll want to create a shortlist of schools. Follow these tips and ask these questions to …
Here's one of our SAT and ACT tips for test day: Write in your SAT and ACT test booklet.
ACT & SAT

SAT/ ACT Test Day Tip: Write on Your Booklet

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
You know by now that the questions on the SAT & ACT tests are designed to challenge you. Acing these tests requires you to be fast, focused, and most of all, accurate. So here’s one of many SAT and ACT tips for test day that experts suggest: use your SAT and ACT test booklet as …
Parents walking behind their graduating student.
scholarships

10 Scholarships for First Generation College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 8, 2024
Being the first in your family to pursue a college education is an impressive achievement and about a third of students are those first generation college students. According to FirstGenForward, 54% of undergrads in 2020 were children of parents who did not have a bachelor’s degree. While these first-gen students do not necessarily came from …
Who can co-sign your student loans?
student loans

People Who Can Cosign Your Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 26, 2024
Most students need a cosigner to get private student loans because they do not meet the requirements on their own. While parents are common cosigners for student loans, they are not the only ones who are eligible to cosign. Relatives, friends, or any adult can cosign student loans provided that they meet the lender’s cosigner …
A woman is smiling with two speech bubble beside in front of her.
financial aid

What Is Your Student Aid Report Telling You?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The SAR or Student Aid Report is a document you will receive after you have submitted your FAFSA application. This document is based on your answers to the questions on the FAFSA and includes information regarding the type and amount of financial aid that is available to you from the federal government and the schools …
Here's how to save money as a new college graduate.
student loans

How To Save Money On Your Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 9, 2023
Finances can be especially tight during the first few months after graduation. Even if you’re lucky to get a job immediately, chances are you’ll be earning a starting salary. That has to cover your rent, food, and utility costs. Most new grads barely have enough money left over to cover their loan repayments. However, those …

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