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 …

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 …

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 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 …

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. …

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 …

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 …

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 …

college applications

What is the Early Action Deadline?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

As you start shortlisting colleges to apply to, you’ll see that many colleges offer the option of early action. You must take time to understand what ‘early action’ means, and how it affects you. This will help you make a more informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you. The Basics of Early …