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!
Looking through the entry gate at Yale University's main building.
college news & trends

From Ivy to innovation: exploring the oldest and newest colleges and universities in America

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 4, 2025
Key takeaways Higher education in the U.S. has evolved from small colonial colleges to large, innovative universities. The oldest colleges and universities are: Harvard, William & Mary, St. John’s, Yale, the University of Pennsylvania, and Princeton. The newest colleges and universities are: the University of Austin, Oak Valley College, Florida Polytechnic University, Minerva University, Georgia …
How do you eliminate student debt as a parent?
financial aid

8 Ways Parents Can Help Reduce Student Debt

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 24, 2025
The total student loan debt in the United States reached a record high during the first portion of 2023. According to credit bureau data, student loan borrowers had a remaining loan balance of $38,787 on average. 10% of borrowers owed more than $80,000 in federal loans alone. This can be a stressful prospect for future …
Longhorn Marching Band at Texas Memorial Stadium.
student life

10 of the Best College Marching Bands

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 25, 2025
Marching band halftime shows are a staple of American football and a highlight of Game Day for many fans. When halftime rolls around, football players hit the locker rooms while the band takes the field – it’s their time to entertain and shine. It’s the flashy uniforms, the articulate steps, and amazing choreography that gets …
A red push door in a high school, opening up to a hallway with lockers.
college applications

A Guide to Taking AP Classes in High School

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaway AP classes are college-level courses offered in high school that end with an exam. Scoring well on an AP Exam could result in college credit and progress towards your undergraduate degree. AP classes also boost students’ weighted GPA, show academic rigor, and improve college applications. Advanced placement (AP) classes help you get a …
Colorful pens inside a jar. Overlay text says "Back to school supplies."
tips tools & advice

25 School Supplies Every Student Needs

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 15, 2026
Key Takeaway Wondering what school supplies you’ll need for college? Check out our recommendations for the following must-have items: Pencils/Mechanical Pencils Pens (Various Colors) Highlighters Pencil Case Note Cards Folders Notebooks Binders Paperclips Correction Pens (Whiteout) Planner/Agenda Backpack Printer Sticky Tack/Poster Strips Scissors Binder Clips Personal Safety Alarm Power Strip Stapler Portable Charger Dry Erase …
What's the difference between a public vs private college?
college search

Public vs Private Colleges: What Is the Difference?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are several differences between public and private colleges, from the way they are run and the cost of tuition to the programs they offer and the campus experience. When weighing public vs private college, there is no clear winner in all respects. Both types of schools have their respective benefits and downsides. Which one …
Four pictures representing college majors: leaves, science beakers, books, and numbers.
college majors & minors

What’s a double major? Everything you need to know

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 20, 2026
Key takeaways A double major allows students to focus on two disciplines, related or unrelated, simultaneously. For example, English and Literature (related) or Biology and Music (unrelated). Pursuing a double major has plenty of benefits, including preparing you for a specific career, broadening your knowledge in two subjects, opening up more job opportunities, and even …

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