All College Applications Articles

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 …
Here are some types of volunteer work for students looking to boost their college application.
college applications

50+ volunteer opportunities for students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 1, 2025
Key takeaways While volunteering certainly looks good on a college application, it is also a meaningful way to give back to your community. With 50+ volunteering ideas based on personality and interests, it’s easy to find a volunteer opportunity that speaks to you. Below you’ll find volunteering experiences for the animal lover, creative, organizer, helper, …
A high school student sitting in front of a computer.
college applications

What High School Freshman Can Do for College Prep

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Think college is still four years away so you can worry about it later? There are actually plenty of ways to start prepping for college immediately as a high school freshman that can benefit you in the years to come. 1. Work on Good Study Habits How good are your study habits currently? Good grades …
App done? Send it in early!
college applications

App Done? Consider Sending it in Now!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Are you ahead of the game and already have your college app completed? The due date may still be a few weeks away, but you might just want to hand it in early. Consider Early Action or Early Decision If you’re pretty sure on what college you want to attend, you may want to submit …
Ask questions! Talk to colleges you're interested in.
college applications

Why You Should Talk To A College BEFORE Applying

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
All colleges encourage students to talk to them and ask them questions at any time before, during, or after the application process and this is something you should take advantage of. Clarification Questions Here’s the first and foremost reason why you should talk to a college before applying. You can get clarifications on anything you …
Should you apply early action or early decision
college applications

How to Decide Between Applying Early Action or Early Decision

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Ambitious students might want to submit their college applications early, before the regular application deadlines. Applying sooner rather than later can come with a few great benefits. That includes higher acceptance odds, earlier acceptance notifications, more time to plan your finances, etc. There are two types of early applications to look into: Early Action (EA) …
12 colored pencils and a few shavings.
college applications

7 of the Weirdest College Admission Essays

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 25, 2025
Key takeaways Weird essays can help you stand out. Admissions officers receive hundreds of essays, and having a unique twist could help make yours catch their eye. To help engage the readers, embrace your quirks, show what makes you unique, and let your personality shine. Be creative, it’s a quality that extends far beyond writing. …

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