hidden gems 2023

Hidden Gem Colleges in the US | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

The best treasures are worth looking for and may even be hidden right beneath your nose. That’s true for colleges as well. With our 2023 Hidden Gem Colleges, we highlight colleges and universities that students may not have heard of before. These are all amazing schools and are worth exploring for academic, financial, and social …

hidden gems 2023

Most Affordable Hidden Gem Colleges for the Middle Class | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

It’s no secret that college can be expensive. But that doesn’t mean “not affordable.” This year, College Raptor wanted to highlight some hidden gem colleges that are most affordable for the middle class. We rank the most affordable colleges based on the estimated net price at each institution for a “typical” middle-class family. We defined …

questions & answers, tips tools & advice

Stackable Credentials: A New College Trend

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

The traditional way of earning college credits is changing as stackable credentials are introduced to the world of education. Stackable credentials are different from your normal college courses since they are meant to be completed in a shorter amount of time and are done without a degree-seeking program. The mini-course can then be used with …

college search

Top Schools With Accelerated Master’s Programs

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Are you looking to complete your master’s program quickly? While most graduate degrees take at least 2 years to complete the coursework, there are accelerated options out there for you. Some top schools that offer accelerated master’s programs include Duke University, Northwestern University, the University of Vermont, and more. Here’s a rundown of what you …

questions & answers

Do You Have to Be Religious to Attend a Religiously Affiliated School?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

Contrary to what the name implies, you don’t have to be religious to attend a religiously affiliated school. Religiously affiliated schools typically have diverse student cohorts just like any other secular school. These schools accept students who are non-religious as well as students from other religions. So, what exactly is a religiously affiliated school and …

affordability & college cost, questions & answers

Must Have Conversations with your Future College Student

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 22, 2023

They say that college holds some of the best years of your life. Once your child is set on going to college, it’s important to prepare them for all the things they will be exposed to while they’re there. Serious discussions with your new college student may not be the most fun, but they’re crucial …

hidden gems 2023

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Far West US | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

From sunny beaches to snowy mountains to rainy coasts, there is perhaps no region in the US more diverse than the Far West. In addition to a variety of landscapes, the Far West is home to a variety of schools. With all there is to see, you don’t want to miss out on these incredible …

hidden gems 2023

Best STEM Hidden Gem Colleges | 2023

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

STEM fields are the fastest-growing career market out there and, because of that, there are many organizations, programs, and schools dedicated to encouraging young people to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors.  STEM education helps individuals become more innovative, creative, and divergent thinking. The classes focus on hands-on learning where mistakes are not …

questions & answers, student life

When Does College Basketball Start? What You Need to Know this Season

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 27, 2025

Calling all college basketball fans! The 2024-25 college basketball season is already underway as it started on November 4, 2024. The 2025-26 season will start on November 3, 2025. If you’re a fan and can’t wait for the season to begin, here are some things you need to know about the upcoming year.   When …

student life, tips tools & advice

How to Make the Best Class Schedule

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 9, 2025

Building a class schedule that works well with your personal, social, and work life is the ultimate key to a successful college career. You’ll want to consider your degree and major requirements, while also accounting for breaks, homework, and extracurriculars. Here are some tips and steps on how you can make the best class schedule …