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!
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 …
Student looking at a sunrise considering early action
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 …
College Raptor company photo

College Raptor Chosen for Small Business of the Month Award

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Written by America’s SBDC Iowa AMES, Iowa – America’s SBDC Iowa (SBDC) is pleased to announce that College Raptor, of Iowa City, is the winner of the organization’s statewide October Small Business of the Month Award. College Raptor and SBDC In 2015, William Staib launched College Raptor, an online tool that helps families find the …
Student renewing his FAFSA
financial aid

What You Need To Know About the FAFSA Renewal Process

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 6, 2024
You need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to be eligible for federal student loans, state grants, institutional giant aid, federal grants, and more. Previously, FAFSA offered a renewal process to save time during subsequent years. However, with major updates in 2023, it’s currently not possible to simply renew …
Student applying for scholarships.
scholarship search & applications

Scholarship Essay Tips That Will Boost Your Odds of Winning

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 3, 2025
Key takeaways: Scholarship essays provide an opportunity to showcase your individuality and personal story beyond academic achievements. Carefully reading and following all instructions, including formatting and word count, is important to meet application requirements. Organize your thoughts before writing to create a focused, authentic, and compelling essay. Scholarship committees almost always ask applicants to submit …
Students discussing career advice at a coffee shop.
careers & internships

Career Advice For Students in College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The best time to start planning for your career is while you’re still in college. This is a time when you’re surrounded by a wide assortment of useful resources that you can tap into. You also have easy access to experienced career advisors who will steer you towards making more informed decisions about a prospective …
GPA written on a Chalkboard
college applications

What Is A Good GPA in High School?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 10, 2025
As a high school student applying for college, you’ll hear a lot about the importance of cumulative GPA for college admissions. You may know that GPA is essentially a snapshot of your academic performance, but do you know what a good cumulative GPA looks like and exactly how it impacts your college application? Before discussing …

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