college search

10 Reasons to Attend a Liberal Arts College and Universities

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

So, what is a liberal arts college? They’re not always household names. For many, the first time you hear the name of a liberal arts college is when it comes up in your college search. However, these colleges provide amazing education, engaged communities, and superb preparation for the future. (And, most importantly, not “just arts” …

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10 Reasons to Attend a Public College or University

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

Public colleges and universities sometimes get a bad rap. For some reason, many people think state schools are not as rigorous or prestigious as fancy private colleges and universities. However, public colleges and universities offer many great advantages that may not be available at private institutions. State schools are not for everyone, but for some, …

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What Are the Different Types of Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 21, 2023

There are several different types of colleges including community colleges, colleges, universities, and vocational colleges All offer different programs, degrees, and educational opportunities. Students should know how colleges differ from one another as it could impact their search for the best school for their needs, wants, goals, and budget. As you explore different types of …

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5 Tips on Working with Your School Counselor on Your College Search

By Lynell EngelmyerLast updated on December 22, 2022

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the national student-to-counselor ratio, is 478 to 1, nearly double the number recommended by the American School Counselor Association. Some states, like Minnesota, have a ratio of nearly 800 students for every school counselor, giving it the second-highest ratio in the nation, behind California.  Of course, …

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Finding the Right Size Colleges: Small, Medium or Large Campus?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 5, 2024

Whenever students are asked about their college preferences, one of the things students consider is the size of the school. The majority of college match tools, including College Raptor, ask about preferred college size. There are small, medium, and large size colleges, but how do students know what the right size is for them? Each …

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How To: Build Your College List

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on January 17, 2023

Starting to build your college list can be confusing. Some students start by putting down the names of colleges they know. Others ask for suggestions from people they trust. However, without knowing much about the colleges, those might not be the best way to build your college list. College is a huge investment in time …

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Junior Prep for College: 10 Easy Tips

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on May 24, 2023

As a third-year student in high school, it’s a great time to start thinking: What should juniors do to prepare for college? Instead of stressing about the process during the fall of your senior year, get ahead of the game, and start planning now. If you’re wondering what should juniors do to prepare for college, …

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Pros and Cons: Deciding Whether to Attend a State School as an Out-of-State Student

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

Many students want to go college far away from home. At first thought, many students think attending a state school will be cheaper. However, attending a state school as an out-of-state student is often much more expensive. There are pros and cons of attending a state school as an out-of-state student. Before making the decision …

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11 Ways to Make the Most of Your College Visit

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 22, 2024

Most college counselors will strongly recommend that you visit the colleges you are considering and they are right to do so. There are many benefits that come with a campus visit that you can’t find in a brochure or on a website. Touring a college is one of the best ways to know if it …

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5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Final College Visit

By Ashley GunnLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve applied, been admitted and now you have to decide where to spend your college years. If you’re not 100% sure about your college choice, this is a good time to visit or re-visit. Even if you’ve already visited a college before you applied, visiting a college after you’ve been accepted will help you focus …