college search

In-State vs Out-Of-State Tuition: Picking the Right School for You

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 5, 2025

In most cases, in-state tuition is much less than out-of-state college costs. On average, tuition for a public 4-year in-state school cost $9,750 in 2022-23 vs $28,297 for out-of-state tuition. Scholarships, reciprocity programs, and other financial aid packages can reduce the cost of tuition. When researching colleges, students often consider the proximity to home. Some …

questions & answers

Should I Attend Community College First?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Most community colleges are two-year institutions. There are many reasons that attending community college for two years and then transferring to a 4-year university is a good idea. However, there may be a few circumstances in which choosing this path may not be beneficial for you. Understanding the benefits and downsides of attending community college …

college search

How to Search for a Grad School

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you interested in attending grad school after you’ve earned your Bachelor’s degree? It’s important to weigh your options carefully before deciding on a school! Here’s how you can start that search for the perfect place to earn your Master’s. Start Early It’s important to start as early as possible when it comes to finding …

college search

The Many Benefits of Community Colleges

By Devin MorrisseyLast updated on December 22, 2022

Each year students graduating high school are forced to face the realities of their next steps. Finding an appropriate college for themselves (and their future career) is one of those steps. Community college is a great alternative to traditional universities for the student who is reluctant to go to college, or who simply doesn’t feel …

student life

Colleges Used as Filming Locations for Horror Movies

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Nothing says Halloween quite like a scary movie. Real college campuses have been used as filming locations for decades, and are featured in some of the most famous (and terrifying) horror films of all time! So pop some popcorn, grab that Halloween candy, and turn off the lights. Here’s a list of colleges used as …

student life

Clever (and Cheap) Halloween Costumes for College Students

By Allison WignallLast updated on June 27, 2024

When it comes to Halloween, college students are often just as excited as little kids. On campuses around the country students will dress up and head out to parties or school-sponsored events. In honor of the fun holiday, here are some clever, and most importantly affordable, last-minute DIY Halloween costumes! Smart Cookie High school grad …

questions & answers

What Makes a Good College Fit?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

One phrase you’ll see a lot of while searching for colleges is “good fit.” For example: “You want a school that’s a good fit for you.” “A good fit is more important than a brand name school.” But what exactly makes a “good fit?” What should you be looking for? Academic Match College is first …

student life

The Ultimate Finals Survival Kit for College

By Allison WignallLast updated on January 20, 2026

While finals may be the bane of every college student’s existence, they are survivable. Smart study sessions, mental breaks, plenty of sleep, and a healthy diet are all ways to keep afloat, but there’s another thing every student needs—a finals survival kit. We’ve scoured Amazon for the best items to help college students through the …

college search

What To Do If Your Dream School Campus Visit Disappoints You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it comes time to visit your list of potential colleges, you’re probably looking forward to your dream school visit most of all. But what happens if you get there and it’s not everything you thought? It happens quite often. Students have an idea of what the college is like before the visit and it …

college majors & minors

How a Major Can Help You Find a College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Narrowing down your college list can be difficult, but paying attention to what you need or want out of a school can help you find the perfect colleges for your education. One aspect you should pay special attention to is your intended major. Here’s how a major can help you find a college: Not All …