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!
High school student walking into school.
scholarships

Well Known National Scholarships For High School Students       

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are hundreds upon hundreds of scholarships available to help pay for college. While local scholarships are a great source of money, what about scholarships on a larger scale? One of the most recognized national scholarships for high school students is the National Merit Scholarships. Let’s break them down. National Merit Scholarships There are three …
Student applying to college on her laptop
college applications

An Overview of College Application Requirements

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Applying to a college can feel both exciting and intimidating. There are a lot of elements that go into an application, after all. With so many moving pieces, how do you keep track of it all? Let’s cover the basics of college application requirements. Common College Application Requirements There are some requirements that are common …
High school student with books standing in front of a whiteboard filled with math formulas.
college search

When To Remove A College From Your List

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Finding the perfect college is no easy task. You want to make sure that the college you choose will help you meet your academic and career goals. With over 4,000 colleges and universities in the US, this can take some time. The first step is to create a manageable shortlist of the best-fit colleges for …
College student researching financial aid on her laptop at campus.
financial aid

What Is Financial Aid?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
College fees can be shockingly expensive. High school seniors may feel overwhelmed by all the cost talk. Fortunately, there is some good news. Asking yourself “what is financial aid?” Let’s break it down. What is Financial Aid? There are several forms of financial aid to help cover the cost. The five main types of financial …
student graduating with honors
student life

What are the Graduating Latin Honors for College Students?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Graduating with Latin honors is an indication of academic achievement beyond completion of the basic requirements for earning a college degree. There are three levels of graduating honors – Cum laude, Magna cum laude, and Summa cum laude. Types of Graduating Latin Honors & Minimum Requirements for Each The exact requirements for each honor level …
Student on laptop applying for scholarships
scholarship search & applications

Can You Earn Scholarships Without The FAFSA?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 14, 2025
You can earn scholarships without the FAFSA, however, it could limit your scholarship opportunities. Although it’s not essential for earning a scholarship, it is strongly advisable to complete the FAFSA. The FAFSA qualifies you for various other types of financial aid besides scholarships. The short answer is yes, you can earn scholarships without the FAFSA. …
Paint covered hands.
college applications

50 Creative College Essay Topics

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 12, 2025
Key Takeaways Most college applications include an essay requirement—some have specific prompts, while others leave it more open-ended. Infusing creativity into your essay is a great way to showcase your skills and personality. From the best advice you’ve ever received to your biggest fears to time travel fantasies—we’re diving into 50 creative essay topics worth …
dependent and independent students in college
financial aid

How Does FAFSA Dependency Work?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023
Filling out the FAFSA is the first step to getting financial aid for college. This is not an easy form to fill out but it’s absolutely crucial that you do it. Without the FAFSA you may lose out on certain types of financial aid. One of the more complex questions on this application is related …
Student searching for scholarships
scholarship search & applications

Who Can Apply For Scholarships?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Any student can apply for scholarships. When it comes to scholarships, the only requirement is that applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for that particular program. Thousands of organizations offer awards throughout the year. Each of these has its own eligibility criteria. If you take the time to research opportunities, you’re almost certain to find …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.