questions & answers

How to find where your classes are in college

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 20, 2026

Key takeaways Your class building and room number are listed directly on your course schedule in your student portal. Reviewing your campus map before the semester starts may save you a lot of stress during your first week. Apps like Google Maps, your school’s official app, and FindMyClass can help you navigate in real time. …

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Can you be enrolled in two colleges at once?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 20, 2026

Key takeaways: Some students opt to enroll in two colleges at once, with one designated “home” school. The credits from the second college then transfer to the home school. You can only use federal financial aid at your home school but you may receive outside or institutional aid that you can use towards both colleges. …

questions & answers

College ruled vs. wide ruled: Your guide to lined paper

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways The difference between college ruled and wide ruled paper is the line spacing; college ruled has thinner gaps between lines than wide ruled. Wide ruled notebook paper is standard for elementary school, while high school students, college students and professionals typically use college ruled paper. Choose your paper based on your handwriting style. …

college comparisons, questions & answers

What is Maymester? A guide to short-term academic success

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 2, 2026

Key takeaways Maymester is typically a three-week academic session held in May. It offers an intensive experience where students focus on one class. Many programs involve summer study abroad, including faculty-led trips to places like the Italian Coast. It is a great way to complete a three-credit course in a fraction of the time it …

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How many colleges are in the U.S.?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on May 12, 2026

Key takeaways: There are 5,626 postsecondary Title IV institutions in the United States as of 2024-25, according to the NCES IPEDS. 2,609 institutions award a bachelor’s degree or higher to their students. California has the most postsecondary Title IV institutions of any state, at 613. Thinking about pursuing higher education? Lucky for you, you have …

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When is Ivy Day 2026? Your guide to the big reveal

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 9, 2026

Key takeaways Ivy Day is an annual event when all eight Ivy League schools release their regular admissions decisions at the exact same time. Ivy Day in 2026 will fall on Thursday, March 26. High school senior applicants should have their login credentials ready for each school’s official website ahead of time. While the day …

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 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. …