All College Applications Articles

Here's what NOT to do on a college application.
college applications

What NOT To Do In Your College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are certain things that are sure to get your application rejected. Here’s a list of things of what NOT to do on your college application. Send in Gifts While you might be doing this as a way to show your appreciation, sending in gifts along with your application may be misconstrued as a form …
Not all colleges accept the Common App.
college applications

Schools That Accept the Common App

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 29, 2024
The Common App makes it easy for students to apply to multiple colleges Not all schools accept the Common App The Common App is free to use and more than half the member colleges don’t charge an application fee No, not all colleges accept the Common Application. But, of the 3,982 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in …
Here's a list of keywords to use to stand out.
college applications

22 Keywords To Use In Your College Application Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 10, 2025
Key Takeaway: Your college essay is what helps you stand out among other candidates during the application process, and using the keywords below in your essays can help give you an edge over other candidates—just make sure you don’t overdo it! Keywords matter—but that’s not all. Don’t forget to use emotion, be sincere, get creative, …
A piece of paper that says "checklist" with lines underneath and a pen sitting on top.
college applications

The Handy College Application Checklist

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Applying to college can be a juggling act. You need to focus on so many things at the same time. Everything must be done correctly for your application to be successful. Overlooking any one aspect will result in your application getting rejected. That’s why we put together a college application checklist. Experts advise making a …
Four rocks stacked on top of each other on a table outside.
college applications

How to Balance College Prep with High School

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Senior year of high school is no doubt a stressor for many. Between classes, college search, college applications, scholarship applications, extracurricular activities, financial aid, homework, test prep for the ACT or SAT, and maybe even work, it’s a lot on a student’s plate! Here are some ways you can de-stress and balance your final year of …
Like this pen and notes, proofreading your college essay can be messy but rewarding.
college applications

How to Proofread Your College Application Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 17, 2024
Key Takeaway Proofreading your college application essay is not just about fixing typos. It’s also about ensuring your essay aligns with the prompt and showcases your unique voice. By including specific examples, checking for errors thoroughly, and getting feedback from a parent or teacher, you can submit your best work to colleges and increase your …
Apply SMART goals to your college applications.
college applications

How to Create SMART Goals for College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 2, 2024
Have you heard of SMART goals before? It’s generally for project management, but it can also be a great tool when you put it towards personal development. Today, the acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Here’s how you can use each one towards your college applications. S: Specific When it comes to …

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