college search, questions & answers

What is Competency-Based Education (CBE)?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 25, 2023

A college education is a privilege that many students hope to experience during their academic journey. However, the traditional learning style of college doesn’t work for everyone and can discourage some from pursuing higher education and their dream careers. So, what can someone do if they desire a college education but need a different approach?  …

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What Is the Difference Between Trade School and College?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 24, 2023

Choosing your next step after high school can be overwhelming, especially with the plethora of options for students now. From trade school and college to going into the military, it’s important to know what each route entails to see if it’s right for you.  Particularly, knowing the difference between trade school and college can change …

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What is the difference between a major and minor in college?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 4, 2025

Key takeaways: A major is an undergraduate student’s specific and main area of study, while a minor is a supplemental selection of courses based on goals or interests. Students typically have to declare a major to graduate with a bachelor’s, but a minor is rarely necessary. Choosing the right major (and potential minor) can impact …

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Academic Probation: Your Guide to Staying in Good Standing

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 29, 2024

Academic probation is when a student has failed to maintain the minimum GPA to remain in good standing in the school. It is meant to serve as a warning that grades need to be improved within a certain time frame. If the student is unable to rectify the problem, they may not be able to …

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What Are ROTC Programs? The Complete Guide for Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 19, 2025

Key Takeaways ROTC is a college program that trains students to become commissioned officers. Programs are available at over 1,700 colleges across the U.S. ROTC offers scholarships that can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. Participation requires a commitment to serve in the military after graduation. Each branch (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and …

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A Quick Guide to Free Community Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 26, 2025

In certain states, yes, community colleges can be entirely free! Not all states offer these types of programs, however, and many of them have restrictions on eligibility. But if you qualify, you could very well receive a free ride to community college! Keep reading to learn more about which states have programs, who qualifies, and …

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From Campus to Career: Honoring National Student Employment Week

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 25, 2025

Imagine this: you stroll into the campus café for your essential morning coffee, swing by the library to check out that intriguing book and get your laptop issues sorted out—all before your first class begins. Have you ever stopped to think about who makes those moments possible? It’s the student employees! They are the unsung …

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How to Know When You Should (or Shouldn’t) Switch Your Major

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 28, 2023

Switching your major is a big decision, but one that many college students make every year. Sometimes the switch in your declared major is drastic, while other times it just changes a little. Whether you’re a biology major and want to switch to an economics major, or you’re a business major who wants to switch …

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8 Great Podcasts for Parents of College Bound Teens

By Hilary CairnsPublished on February 20, 2023

Navigating applying for college, financial aid, scholarships, and more can be overwhelming and confusing! And not only for college-bound students – for their parents as well. It’s a lot to handle. But if you want to get on top of the must-know information, even amid your busy schedule, we highly recommend starting with these podcasts …

questions & answers, student life

5 Reasons Students Transfer Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on December 28, 2022

While many college students start and graduate from the same college or university, this isn’t the case for all! Some students have reasons to transfer colleges at certain points in their education. Some factors, like, they may find the college isn’t for them, their finances or changed, or transferring was always a part of their …