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!
A college student applying for a stimulus check on her phone.
financial aid

What is the Student Aid Index?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 7, 2025
The Student Aid Index, or SAI, is the number colleges use to determine how much financial aid you’re eligible for based on the information you provide on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Here’s a rundown of how the SAI works and why it matters for students and families trying to pay for …
The Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise.
financial aid

How To Overcome Financial Aid “Gapping”

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
To make the cost of college more affordable, many schools offer financial aid packages to accepted students. These packages are customized for each student based on the information submitted through the FAFSA. Schools usually try and cover 100% of the student’s financial need through a mix of grants, scholarships, work study and loans. However, many …
Student sitting at a desk with notebooks and a laptop studying for her SAT.
ACT & SAT

How To Get In Test Prep Practice With A Busy Schedule

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Preparing for the SAT and ACT takes time. It can take several months to be really prepared to ace these tests. Unfortunately, time in a luxury when you’re in high school. Your schedule is already packed with school work, homework, assignments, and searching for scholarships and colleges. Then of course, there’s life. It’s important to …
Student standing on finish line
college admissions

When Should I Have My Final College Choice?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The college search and application processes are long journeys. Between researching, visiting, applying, and comparing, it can feel like you ran a marathon. Deciding on your final college choice is the home stretch. Wondering, “When Should I Have My Final College Choice?” We’ll answer that question and more here. Timeline for Narrowing College Choices This …
High school student thinking about financial aid
financial aid

3 Critical Financial Aid Tips For High School Seniors

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023
Financial aid may be the last thing on your mind when you’re in high school. You’re already juggling a lot. But the sooner you understand how financial aid works, the better. Here are 3 critical financial aid tips for high school seniors. Why it’s So Important to Start Exploring Financial Aid in High School College …
High school freshman doing school work
college admissions

Do Freshman Grades Matter For College Admissions?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
As a freshman, college is still four long years away. Should you really be worrying about getting good grades for college admission already? Do colleges actually check a student’s grades all the way back from freshman year? If you’re just entering freshman year, you should know that this is the right time to start working …
Student updating their FAFSA online
financial aid

When and How to Update Your FAFSA Information

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The FAFSA is the form college students fill to get financial aid from the federal government. All personal and financial information that you fill in your form must be accurate at the time of submitting of your FAFSA. The federal government uses this information to calculate your EFC or Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Your EFC is …

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