college search

4 Things To Do Before You Go On A College Visit

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

College visits play an important role in the college short-listing process. Getting a first-hand look and feel of the campus and its facilities can help you make an informed decision about which college fits your personality and academic goals. Making a college visit checklist is the best way to make the most of your campus visits. …

college search

How to Know if a College’s Culture Is a Good Fit For You

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Some students worry more about the academic aspects of college, while others worry more about finances. Others are worried more about what the school itself is like. Do you find yourself wondering, “What college should I go to?” based on the culture of the institution? What College Should I Go To Based On Its Culture? …

student life

17 Holiday Gifts Perfect for College Students

By Allison WignallLast updated on January 20, 2026

‘Tis the gift-giving season! Looking for fun gifts for college students in your life? We’ve combed through Amazon and found these great presents—whether practical, fun, or both! Books The Naked Roommate This #1 best seller by Harlan Cohen offers practical (and comedic) advice about a host of challenges students will face. From the titular roommate, …

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 …