college applications

How Long Does a College Application Take to Fill Out?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it’s time to apply to college, how long should you take to complete your application? There is no one timetable for all applications out there, but here’s a rundown of what you need to know, what an application generally requires, and other steps you’ll need to take to complete the college application processes. How …

college applications

How to Pass Scholarship Interviews

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Although not all scholarships require that you attend an interview, many do, and interviewing can be intimidating. But with practice and preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips we put together for you on how to pass scholarship interviews.   Practice, Practice, Practice One of the best ways to get comfortable for an …

college applications

Essay Theme Ideas

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Not sure what to write about for your upcoming college application essay? It can be tough landing on a topic, but it’s important to write about something that is special and important to you. Authenticity is essential in these pieces. If you’re stuck on a topic or theme though, here are some ideas that can …

college applications

Tips to spruce up your student resume for college applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 18, 2025

Key takeaways A student resume should include your contact information, education, an objective/summary, and a combination of extracurriculars, volunteer work, internships, work experience, skills, and hobbies that best reflect you. To create a student resume that really stands out, stick to professional fonts, keep the design clean, organize your information with bullet points, use color …

college admissions, college applications

85 Extracurricular Activities for College Applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 1, 2024

Extracurriculars look great on college applications, but do colleges look for certain clubs or activities when you apply? The answer is yes and no! What you do during the club or activity is more important than the activity itself in some cases. Here’s a list of 7 extracurricular activities for college applications. It’s no secret …

college admissions, college applications

Early Decision II – What to Expect

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 13, 2024

Are you considering applying under Early Decision II? Or did you already send in your application and want to know what to expect now? We’ll run through the basics of this college application method and what you need to know for the coming weeks. Early Decision II is binding. Early Decision II follows the same …

college admissions, college applications

When Do College Acceptance Letters Arrive?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 29, 2025

Once you’ve applied to colleges, the waiting game begins – waiting to hear back whether you’ve been accepted. For most students, college acceptance letters arrive in early spring, from mid-March to late April. However, students who applied through Early Action or Early Decision might hear back sooner. The exact date depends on when you applied …

college admissions, college applications

What Do You Do If You Were Accepted Under Early Decision?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you applied under Early Decision, it’s likely that you have heard back from the college by now. Congratulations if you were accepted! You may be wondering what the next steps are in early decision acceptance. Your new school should be reaching out with those shortly if they haven’t already. But we’ll cover some of …

college admissions, college applications

What is the universal college application deadline?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 20, 2025

Key takeaways: The universal application deadline is January 1 for regular decision submissions, but not every college uses this specific date. You’ll have to submit your application earlier if you wish to apply under Early Action or Early Decision. Most colleges won’t accept late submissions but may make exceptions for emergencies. Many colleges and universities …

college applications

What You Need To Know About College Application Fees

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 5, 2024

Key Takeaways: The average undergraduate college application fee is about $47, but fees vary by college. College application fees range from $0 – $500, but most cost within the $30-$90 range. In addition to the application fee itself, you may incur other application related expenses like test registration costs (AP, SAT/ACT), fees for pulling transcripts, …