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 …

affordability & college cost, questions & answers

Understanding Dual Enrollment and the Benefits for Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 14, 2025

Dual enrollment means that a student is taking college courses and earning college-level credits while still in high school. These programs allow students to get a head start on higher education, focus on academic rigor, and potentially save thousands in the long run. Here’s a look at dual enrollment, eligibility requirements, course options, and more …

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The Colleges With the Most 2024 Olympians and Medals

By College Raptor StaffPublished on December 19, 2024

Believe it or not, Olympians are just like the rest of us—minus the stacks of medals and world-class accolades. And yes, many of them go to college! You might be wondering how they manage to juggle intense training schedules, academic demands, social lives, and the occasional need for sleep. Our best answer? They’re Olympians for …

questions & answers, student life

From Failure to Success: What’s Next if You Fail a Class in College?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on December 10, 2024

Key Takeaways A failed class (<64%) can affect your GPA, graduation plans, financial aid, and potential transfer credits. If you are failing or have failed a college class you should seek academic help, evaluate why you failed, decide if you will retake the class, or possibly consider a different major. You can prevent failure in …

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A Complete Guide to Honors Programs and 5 Big Benefits

By Hilary CairnsPublished on October 16, 2024

Honor programs recognize high-achieving students who have a history of excellent grades. The programs’ classes and courses are difficult, but they can be perfect for high school and college students who want a challenge in their education. Plus, they offer a number of benefits including recognition, scholarship opportunities, and more. Here’s a complete look at …

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Do Colleges Look at Attendance? What You Need to Know about Going to Class

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 25, 2025

Key Takeaways Colleges generally do not directly consider attendance in admissions decisions. Attendance affects GPA and participation, which are important for college applications. Regular class attendance can help you earn strong recommendation letters. Attending class helps you learn, meet deadlines, and stay on track for graduation. Good attendance can support your extracurricular participation and academic …