affordability & college cost, tips tools & advice

Colleges with laptops for students: Your guide to free and discounted tech

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways Several colleges offer free laptops to enrolled students to help offset college costs. Some schools let you keep the laptop, while others use a rental or loaner model. Eligibility usually depends on your financial need, your major, or whether you are a full-time student. Always check for hidden technology fees before choosing a …

questions & answers

College ruled vs. wide ruled: Your guide to lined paper

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways The difference between college ruled and wide ruled paper is the line spacing; college ruled has thinner gaps between lines than wide ruled. Wide ruled notebook paper is standard for elementary school, while high school students, college students and professionals typically use college ruled paper. Choose your paper based on your handwriting style. …

college comparisons, questions & answers

What is Maymester? A guide to short-term academic success

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 2, 2026

Key takeaways Maymester is typically a three-week academic session held in May. It offers an intensive experience where students focus on one class. Many programs involve summer study abroad, including faculty-led trips to places like the Italian Coast. It is a great way to complete a three-credit course in a fraction of the time it …

student life

What are elective classes and why do they matter?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on May 13, 2026

Key takeaways Elective classes are optional courses that let you explore personal interests beyond the core curriculum. The best electives help you gain foundational skills in specific areas, like financial literacy, coding, or graphic design. Electives provide a mental break from required courses, which may improve academic success. Knowing how many electives to take is …

questions & answers

How many colleges are in the U.S.?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on May 12, 2026

Key takeaways: There are 5,626 postsecondary Title IV institutions in the United States as of 2024-25, according to the NCES IPEDS. 2,609 institutions award a bachelor’s degree or higher to their students. California has the most postsecondary Title IV institutions of any state, at 613. Thinking about pursuing higher education? Lucky for you, you have …

college search

Colleges with the best dorms: tips to find your perfect space

By College Raptor StaffPublished on May 4, 2026

Key takeaways: Rice, Stanford University, Yale, and MIT have some of the best dorm rooms in the U.S. A great college dorm room is a place where you can eat, sleep, study, and socialize with friends. The amenities, location, and community help shape the college dorm experience. It’s important to read online reviews and visit …

college comparisons

How many credit hours do you need for an associate degree?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 27, 2026

Key takeaways Most associate degree programs require 60 credit hours, and most students earn it in two years or less.  To earn an associate degree, you’ll need to take general education classes and courses specific to your major.  When you earn an associate degree, you can get a job or transfer your credits and pursue a bachelor’s degree.  Each college, university, and program has different requirements …

tips tools & advice

9 tips and techniques to study for exams

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 26, 2026

Key takeaways: Spreading your study sessions out over several days is usually more effective than cramming the night before an exam. Active recall is one of the strongest study techniques for long-term retention.  Taking practice tests under realistic conditions may help reduce test anxiety and reveal gaps in your knowledge.  Short, focused study sessions with …

student life, tips tools & advice

What is recitation in college?

By Gallagher, CatherinePublished on March 25, 2026

Key takeaway Recitation in college is a small-group, interactive session that typically meets once a week to cover course material and deepen your understanding. Recitations are different from lectures because they have fewer than 30 people, are led by teacher assistants, and require students to be hands-on and participate, rather than just listen and take …

questions & answers

When is Ivy Day 2026? Your guide to the big reveal

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 9, 2026

Key takeaways Ivy Day is an annual event when all eight Ivy League schools release their regular admissions decisions at the exact same time. Ivy Day in 2026 will fall on Thursday, March 26. High school senior applicants should have their login credentials ready for each school’s official website ahead of time. While the day …