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!
Female college student scratching her head due to stress.
ACT & SAT

12 Tips to Crush ACT or SAT Test Anxiety

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 30, 2025
Test anxiety is something that many students experience—especially those who are college-bound. Even though ACT and SAT scores are just one piece of the college admissions puzzle, the pressure can feel intense. Whether it stems from fear of failure, high expectations, or low self-esteem, test anxiety can really affect your ability to perform. However, there …
Students in a marching band lined up, holding their instruments.
questions & answers

How Many Extracurricular Activities Should I Be Doing? Is More, More? Or Is More, Less?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 24, 2024
Key Takeaways When considering extracurricular activities in high school, it is all about quality over quantity. By participating in fewer activities outside of class, you can commit to staying involved. Don’t join a club or organization just to add it to your college application—admission officers are looking for dedicated students. While applying to colleges, many …
A college visit is essential so you know if a college is for you or not
college search

11 Ways to Make the Most of Your College Visit

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 22, 2024
Most college counselors will strongly recommend that you visit the colleges you are considering and they are right to do so. There are many benefits that come with a campus visit that you can’t find in a brochure or on a website. Touring a college is one of the best ways to know if it …
Johns Hopkins University also has one of the best college libraries.
student life

15 of the Most Amazing College Libraries in the US

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 24, 2025
Key Takeaway: A college library might not seem like the most exciting place at first glance—just a spot to cram for exams, right? From high-tech modern spaces to cathedral-style, stained glass charm, these 15 college libraries might just make you actually want to study: Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, University of Chicago James B. Hunt …
A student filling out papers with a pen.
myths

Why You Should Fill Out the FAFSA Even if You Think You Won’t Qualify

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 27, 2024
There are students who think they won’t get financial aid from the federal government. Therefore, they sometimes don’t see the point in filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). However, these students don’t realize that they may be missing out on grants and scholarships from their college. They’re even missing out on low-interest-rate …
college search

How to Choose a College Major

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 22, 2024
Future aspirations: How to choose a major in college even if you don’t know what you want to do How to choose a college major: Start with your passions and choose a general direction. Don’t be afraid to change your mind later. Most students do. For pre-professional programs, consider your undergraduate options carefully. Consider the …
If you think you won't get financial aid, you're wrong
financial aid

Commonly Asked FAFSA Questions

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 26, 2025
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), is an application that all students planning to go to college should complete. Below, we’ll do a quick review of what the FAFSA is and answer some of the more commonly asked questions. Here’s your FAFSA FAQ! What is the FAFSA? The FAFSA stands for the Free …

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