college applications

Mastering Common App Essay Questions for 2025-2026

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 7, 2025

Key Takeaway The Common App is used by over 1,000 colleges and universities throughout the United States. It allows you to apply to multiple schools at once, track deadlines, easily gather materials, and more. One key component is the Common App Essay, also known as a Common App personal statement, which is required by nearly …

college applications

You Can Survive The Stressful College Application Season With This One Tip

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

There’s no denying that college application season is stressful, and for some students it can become completely overwhelming. You have to work on that all-important essay and your writing skills, study for the standardized tests in different ways, get in some extracurricular activities, and do all the prep work for getting recommendation letters. While there’s …

college applications

What You Should Do The Summer Before Your Freshman Year Of College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The summer before your freshman year of college is the perfect opportunity to pursue activities that will help you be better prepared for college. Not sure exactly what types of activities you should consider? These few ideas will help you get started: Get A Taste Of A Potential Future Career: Internships Start by looking for …

college applications

What Do Colleges Look for in Application Essays?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 29, 2024

Submitting your test scores, grades, achievements, and personal essay is all part of your application checklist. Many believe that the most important factor in the decision process is school grades or admission test scores. And while these are important, your essay holds more value than you might initially think. It’s not just a formality—it’s a …

college applications

Advice For Transfer Applicants: A Few Do’s And Don’ts For A Successful Transfer Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Students apply for transfers for a wide variety of reasons. Some may find that their present school does not offer them the challenge they thought they’d find. Others may have developed an interest in a subject not offered by their current college. Whatever the reason you wish to apply for a transfer, it is crucial …

college applications

Pros and Cons of Declaring Your Major on a College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 27, 2025

Declaring your major on your college application has its advantages, but there can be a downside to it as well. Understanding the pros and cons of declaring a major on your college application can help you make a more informed decision. Pros Of Declaring Your Major Declaring your intended major tells the college that you …

college applications

College Application Tips For Homeschooled Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In some ways, the college application process for homeschooled students may be slightly different than that for traditional students. If you are a homeschooled student, you may not be able to submit a traditional transcript of course grades. You may also not be able to meet the recommendation letter criteria laid out for traditional students. …

college applications

Steer Clear of These Topics on Your College Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you are writing your college essay, it is crucial that your message is clear and unmistakable. There should be no confusion about what you are trying to say. While there are a few subjects that you definitely should talk about, there are a few that you should steer clear of. Political And Religious Issues …

college applications

How to Improve Your GPA!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Improving your GPA should be a goal whether you’re in high school or college, a freshman or a senior. A high GPA will look excellent on both a college application and a resume. Here are some steps you can take to improve your GPA: Set Aside Time To Study Studying before a test is a …

college applications

The HiSET and TASC Tests: What are They?

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Have trouble finishing high school and wondering what your next steps may be? If you were planning on taking the GED (General Education Diploma), be sure to consider the HiSET and TASC tests as well. These tests are all used to measure your knowledge in accordance with that of a typical high school graduate. HiSET …