college majors & minors, college search

How to start grad school after a long break from undergrad

By Hilary CairnsPublished on January 12, 2026

Key takeaways Students going back to graduate school after a long break from undergrad may feel overwhelmed and underprepared when re-entering the classroom. However, older graduates have work and life experience that can give them an edge over other students. To prepare for grad school, research programs that match your goals and schedule requirements and …

college search, questions & answers

Associate’s degree vs. bachelor’s degree: uncovering the differences

By Hilary CairnsPublished on January 7, 2026

Key takeaways: An associate’s is a 2-year undergraduate degree usually awarded by community colleges. Bachelor’s degrees take 4 years on average and most often come from 4-year colleges and universities. Both degrees can open the door to more education and career opportunities, but there are typically more options and higher salary potential with a bachelor’s …

college comparisons, questions & answers

What are vocational schools?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on January 7, 2026

Key takeaways: Vocational schools are postsecondary trade or technical institutions that award certificates, diplomas, or associate’s degrees. Programs last between a few months to two years, and classes focus on career-specific hands-on learning. Common programs include animal care, cosmetology, culinary arts, machinery, and HVAC. Vocational schools are postsecondary institutions that prepare students for careers in …

college comparisons

Nicest college campuses in the U.S.

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 27, 2025

Key Takeaways Your college campus is not only where you take classes, but where you live. This makes it crucial to choose an environment that supports your mental health and gives you a sense of belonging. “Nice” looks different for everyone—some students prefer modern facilities and upscale dining, while others value traditions or access to …

college search, questions & answers

What are the Seven Sisters schools?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 25, 2025

Key takeaways: The Seven Sisters are a group of private liberal art schools focused on women’s education in the Northeast United States. The seven institutions are Barnard College, Bryn Mawr College, Mount Holyoke College, Radcliffe College, Smith College, Vassar College, and Wellesley College. Most of the colleges only accept women to their undergraduate school, though …

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Harvard College vs. Harvard University

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 25, 2025

Key takeaways: Harvard University is a top ranked institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dating back to 1636. Undergraduates attend Harvard College, one of the 13 schools that make up Harvard University. Harvard is extremely selective, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of 3.7% You might use “Harvard College” and “Harvard University” interchangeably, but they’re actually slightly different. …

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What are the Black Ivy League schools?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 21, 2025

Key takeaways: Black Ivy League schools are acclaimed HBCUs that are highly selective and offer outstanding academic programs to their students. There is no official list of Black Ivy institutions as there is with the Ivy Leagues. Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Hampton University are a few examples of schools often referred to as Black …

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What are Ivy Plus (Ivy +) schools?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 21, 2025

Key Takeaways: Ivy Plus schools provide quality education programs and experiences that match or even surpass Ivy League offerings. Caltech, MIT, and Stanford University are often considered Ivy Plus institutions, but there is no official list. Students interested in applying to these schools need top grades, high SAT/ACT scores, and community involvement. Ivy Plus schools …

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What are the Southern Ivies?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on November 21, 2025

Key takeaways: A Southern Ivy is a college in the Southern United States that provides top-rated academic programs to its students. They may also have outstanding research, study abroad, or unique job opportunities. Some institutions often called Southern Ivies include Rice University, Duke University, and Davidson College. Southern Ivies is a loose definition for select …

college comparisons

A Guide to the Best Business Schools in the US

By College Raptor StaffPublished on November 17, 2025

Key Takeaways: Business degrees can refer to undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of studies, from Marketing to Finance. Some of the best business schools in the US offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Economics, Business Administration, and Entrepreneurship. If you’re a problem solver, want to own your own business, or want more career …