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!
Drawn on watch - ever wonder how often you should apply to scholarship programs?
questions & answers

How Often Should I Apply For Scholarship Programs?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
When it comes to paying for college, every little bit counts. And scholarships can help more than just a little bit. So it begs the question: how often should you apply for scholarship programs? The short answer is you should apply for scholarships as often as possible. Consider these two features of scholarships: Scholarships are …
college dorm
student life

6 Handy Laundry Supplies for Your College Dorm

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 20, 2026
Not everyone lives close enough to run home on weekends just to do laundry. It’s time to get familiar with the dorm’s laundromat. Agreed, laundry isn’t the most fun thing in the world, but it needs to get done. These 6 essentials that you will need when it comes to doing your laundry at your …
Student reaching up - it's important to have reach, match, and safety schools on your college list
college applications

5 reasons you should apply to reach schools

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 7, 2025
Key Takeaways: Reach schools are colleges where you have a lower chance of acceptance – below 40% – often due to lower academic scores. You should still apply to reach colleges as admissions counselors look beyond GPAs and SAT/ACT scores, reviewing extracurriculars, character, and more. You can boost your acceptance chances with well-written essays, demonstrated …
Jagged road sign - like a windy road, a variable interest rate can twist and turn
student loans

How To Choose Between a Fixed And Variable Interest Rate

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
As you research private student loans, you’ll come across the terms: fixed interest rate and variable interest rate. But what exactly does that mean? How do you choose between them? The Difference Between Fixed and Variable Interest Rates With a variable rate loan, the interest rate will change regularly depending on the market conditions. They …
Student studying and learning how to take a test
ACT & SAT

12 Helpful Standardized Testing Tips

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 4, 2025
Key Takeaway Preparing for the ACT or SAT can feel like a lot. After all, these scores may play a part in your college admissions. Take a deep breath—with the right strategies, you can approach test day feeling confident and ready. Here are standardized testing tips to help you do your best. Read the Directions …
A twist ice cream cone is the best of two flavors, kind of like a hybrid loan
student loans

What You Need To Know About Hybrid Loans for College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
When you apply for a student loan, most lenders will offer you the option to choose between a variable or fixed student loan interest rate. Some lenders also offer a third option – hybrid interest rate. A hybrid loan offers a combination of features. That means combining the pros and cons of fixed interest rates …

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