All College Admissions Articles

Create your college preparation checklist in the spring of your junior year.
college admissions

How to Create a Seasonal College Prep Schedule

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Creating a college preparation checklist and schedule is a great way to ensure you’re getting everything done on time. Here are some things you should be scheduling every season starting with the spring of your junior year of high school. Spring – Junior Year Your junior year is actually when you should start getting a …
Boost your college acceptance odds with these helpful tips.
college admissions

9 tips to help you boost your college acceptance odds

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 27, 2025
Key takeaways A strong college application includes your academics, extracurriculars, awards, essay, recommendation letters, and careful attention to detail. From your essay and extracurriculars to your online presence, focus on highlighting the depth of your experiences to set your application apart. Take your time and be intentional with each part of your application so colleges …
It's never too early to start prepping for college, even as a high school sophomore.
college admissions

What High School Sophomores Can Do For College Prep

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
You may think college prep can wait another year. After all, college applications and the FAFSA don’t have to be turned in until your senior year, so you may want to wait until junior year to begin. However, it’s never too early to start. There are plenty of things you can be doing while you’re …
A tutor talking to a child.
college admissions

Pros and Cons of Getting a Tutor

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are several benefits of getting a tutor for your child. However, along with the benefits, there are a few downsides. Understanding the pros and cons will shield you from any unpleasant surprises. PRO: Students Receive Customized Learning Sessions It’s an accepted fact that people have different learning styles. However, in a classroom environment, it …
Prepare for your IB or AP exams!
college admissions

How To Prep For AP And IB Exams in High School

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
While good grades are not the only criteria used to assess your application, they do play a major role in the overall admission process. One fantastic way to boost your app is by taking academically rigorous classes—like AP or IB courses. But with academic rigor comes challenge, and AP / IB exams are harder than …
Two yellow trophies with "AP" and "Honors" on them with a blue patterned background.
college admissions

Which are better: Honors or AP

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
College admissions have become extremely competitive over the years. High school students hoping to attend a top school often choose either Honors or AP classes to be better prepared. While both will help improve your chances of getting admission into a reputed college, they are not the same. It’s important to understand the differences between …
Archway on a college campus.
college admissions

Myth: Ivy Leagues are the Most Selective Schools

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
It’s a common thought that Ivy League schools are the most selective schools of all the colleges and universities in the United States. You’ll find that’s not exactly the case. Ivy League Acceptance Rates Harvard is the most selective school out of the Ivy Leagues, selecting only 5% of applicants, with Yale right behind, only accepting …
Many students aren't attending their first choice college.
college admissions

Myth: Most Students Are Not Accepted into Their First Pick School

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
You might have heard how a surprisingly large percentage of college students aren’t attending their first choice schools. The number has been increasing steadily since 2006. In 2011, around 43% of students did not attend their first choice schools. That’s the lowest it’s been since UCLA began conducting the student survey in 1974. However, it’s …

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