college applications

How to Save Time on College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Your senior year of high school is a hectic time, especially if you have work, volunteer, or play sports after class. On top of that, you’re getting prepared to head to college next year! Between the applications, ACT and SAT tests, essays, and more, it can get a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips …

college applications

How to Avoid College Application Fees

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Part of the college application process is paying all those darn fees… Or is it? Here are some ways you can avoid paying application fees. Attend a Campus Visit Some schools have arranged for application fee waivers if you arrange (and attend) a campus visit day. It’s best to do this through the school rather …

college applications

How To Balance Grades With Extracurricular Activities

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Grades and extracurricular activities are both very important for development. While every high school student understands the importance of balancing both aspects, many find themselves struggling to cope. The truth is, without a proper game plan, balancing grades and extracurricular activities can be incredibly stressful. You will find yourself focusing more on one while completing …

college applications

Pros and Cons of Using the Universal College App

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

Do one (or more) of your schools accept the Universal College App? You could save time by using the program – you may only have to do your application once to apply to the schools on your list. But should you? Or can you? Let’s review exactly what centralized college apps are and then go …

college applications

How to Use the Common App to Apply for Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 17, 2025

Key Takeaways Over 1,000 colleges accept the Common App, a centralized college application. Students can use the resource to save time and effort if they’re applying to more than one school that accepts it. Start on your Common App as soon as possible to give yourself ample time to complete essays and submit other materials. …

college applications

What you should know about Early Decision (ED) applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 21, 2026

Key takeaways: Early decision is an application process that is “binding” – accepted students are expected to attend. Students who apply under early decision hear back from the college faster and could have a higher chance of acceptance. However, applicants have less time to complete their applications and can’t compare financial aid offers. Early decision …

college applications

How to Revise Your College Application Essay

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve done it. You have the first draft of your college application essay. You feel good about it, about the point you are making for the admissions officers. But it’s only a first draft. Now it’s time to buckle down and revise. Here are some tips on how to revise your college application essay. Read …

college applications

Tips to Stay Organized During the College Application Process

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 14, 2024

The college application process involves several different components – the transcript, essay, various forms, fees, test scores, letters of recommendation, application apps, potentially a college visit and an interview. For your college application to be successful, all of the individual components must fit together like pieces of jigsaw puzzle. The above is just for one …

college applications

Common Mistakes Students Make on College Admissions Essays

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

So you’ve narrowed down your list of schools. You’ve filled out all the demographics information for the application, and now it’s time for the essays and short answers. You’ve got everything covered…or do you? Here are some common mistakes that college admissions see, as well as how to fix mistakes on college admissions essays. Starting …

college applications

Gap Year: Ways to Improve College Applications and Readiness

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

We’ve talked a bit about gap years before in the context of Should I take a gap year? The focus this time around is how to make the best of a gap year before applying to colleges. Or maybe you’ve been accepted into a school, but have deferred enrollment for a year. Whatever the case, …