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Students walking in University of Nevada, Reno campus with bicycle racks.
college search

12 reasons to attend a public college or university

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 23, 2026
Key takeaways With lower in-state tuition, more access to financial aid, numerous student resources, and networking opportunities, public colleges provide high-quality education at a more affordable cost. Public colleges offer numerous academic programs, clubs, activities, and community service options to help students find their place on campus and get connected. Getting a degree from a …
college comparisons

Regional Gems: Midwest

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022
The Midwest is full of big universities–it’s home to the Big 10 after all! And while these schools are great for some students, they aren’t right for everyone. Some are better fit for smaller colleges, of which they may not even be aware. To shed light on small but deserving colleges around the country, we continue …
Student runnng inside University of Dallas campus surrounded with pink flower trees.
college comparisons

Regional Gems: West & South

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022
At College Raptor, we help students find colleges that fit them financially, socially, and academically–which means looking at more than just big-name universities. That’s why we’re drawing attention to smaller colleges across the nation which deserve consideration but may be initially overlooked because of their size. As a continuation of our series on hidden gem …
college comparisons

Regional Gems: Northeast

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022
Many people automatically associate education in the Northeast with the Ivy League. But students desiring a world-class education don’t have to focus on those 8 schools. There are many great, smaller colleges in the Northeast where undergraduates can receive a valuable and meaningful education. To bring attention to these smaller and perhaps lesser-known colleges, College …
Two college students holding a duck at a campus event.
student life

20 Pet Friendly Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 15, 2025
It’s hard to resist the allure of animals and if you’ve had pets all your life, it’s not the easiest thing to leave them behind while you’re away at school. It’s true that many schools have therapy dog programs nowadays (although usually only around finals week), but if you’re looking for a slightly more permanent …
best colleges
college comparisons

Hidden Gems: The Best Colleges In Each State That Receive Fewer than 5,000 Applications Per Year

By Tyler HakesLast updated on June 17, 2024
College Raptor aims to help students find their best fit colleges, academically, culturally, and financially. While big colleges can be a great fit for some students, others do better on smaller campuses. To bring attention to small colleges around the country, we’ve developed this map highlighting the top hidden gem college in each state. In …
types of colleges
college search

What Are the Different Types of Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 2, 2026
Key takeaways: 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 …
A school counselor pointing at a book while a student takes notes.
college search

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, …
University of Washington
college search

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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