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!
There are some things that make you not eligible for federal financial aid
financial aid

What Can Prevent You from Being Eligible for Federal Financial Aid?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 12, 2025
Key takeaways Federal financial aid for students includes direct loans, Pell Grants, the work-study program, and more. Certain factors can impact financial aid eligibility, such as citizenship status, education history, and demonstrated need. Always complete the FAFSA even if you don’t qualify for federal assistance as schools often use the form to determine institutional aid. …
college majors and jobs
careers & internships

Five Things to Avoid Saying in Any Interview

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 24, 2023
So, you’ve finally handed in your last assignment and you’ll soon be ready to receive your diploma and display it proudly on your wall. It’s now time to prepare for that all-important interview for your very first ‘proper’ job or internship. But what do you say during an interview? Or most importantly, what are the …
questions & answers

What’s the Right Mix of Safety Schools vs. Reach Schools on Your College List?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 21, 2024
When building your college list, you’ll want to the right mix of “safety schools”, “match schools” and “reach schools.” But what does that mean? And how many should you have of each? What Does Safety Schools, Match Schools, and Reach Schools Mean? There are three different “types” of schools when it comes to the chance …
A blue bar graph descending in amount with a blue arrow pointing down.
student loans

8 Ways To Reduce Student Loan Debt

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 5, 2025
With the rising cost of tuition, most families in America take federal and private student loans to cover these costs. As a result, the majority of students graduate with thousands of dollars in student loan debt. While this may be unavoidable, there are things you can do to reduce what you owe in student loans. …
What do colleges look for when they check your social media?
college admissions

What Do Colleges Look For On Social Media?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 29, 2025
Your carefully-put-together application and personal essay tells college authorities a lot about yourself. But, it’s only what you want them to hear. It does not tell the reader much about that other side of you. It’s the side that reserved for your friends and family. That’s what the college wants to know. Are you really …
Here's how to choose which colleges to visit.
questions & answers

How Can I Decide on Which Colleges I Should Visit?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
College visits allow you to get a first-hand look at your shortlisted institutions. You get a feel of the community and environment, enabling you to narrow down your list of preferred colleges even further. Here’s how to choose which colleges to visit if you can’t visit them all: Ideally, you visit all of them. Ideally, …

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