college applications

What is the Early Action deadline?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 12, 2026

Most Early Action deadlines are on November 1 or November 15, but they can range from October 1 to December 1 depending on the school. Many students hear back from their colleges by the end of December. However, an early submission means starting on your application sooner, so you’ll need a game plan if you …

college applications

What are good grades in high school?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2026

Key insights Good grades in high school are generally defined as As and Bs, or a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. “Good” is relative, and it depends on your target colleges, course rigor, and personal goals. Colleges consider the difficulty of your courses, not just your GPA. Grade inflation is a …

college applications

How COVID-19 Affects Grades in High School and College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

COVID-19 is affecting everyone’s lives, and one area where it’s causing some chaos is grading for colleges and high schools. Wondering how COVID-19 affects grades? The schools themselves are wondering the exact same thing. There are a few things to know when it comes to your grades and graduation. Schools Are Opting for Different Solutions …

college applications

How COVID-19 Affects AP Tests

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you taking an AP course this year for high school? You may be wondering about your AP tests, especially as we get closer to the end of the school year. Here are some things to note on how COVID-19 is affecting AP classes and tests. The AP Tests Will Be Given at Home The …

college applications

Academic Things to Do During the Quarantine

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

With much of the world under a stay-at-home order, you might be wondering what academic things to do during the quarantine. Fortunately, you can keep on top of your work, education, and college plans. Here are three things to keep in mind or work on in the coming weeks: Write Your College Essays Part of …

college applications

Common App vs Coalition App: Which is Better?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Filling out applications for several colleges can be laborious and time-consuming. The most tedious part is filling in those basic personal details over and over again. One way to avoid this is by using the Common App or the Coalition App. With both of these apps, you fill out your personal information and accomplishments only …

college applications

What You Need To Know About The Common Application Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2024

You can submit the Common Application to over 1,000 colleges, universities, and institutions across the United States. If you’re applying to multiple colleges that use the Common App, you can save some serious time by using this resource. As part of the process, you’re required to write a Common Application Essay. Think of it as …

college applications

How To Boost Your AP Exam Scores

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

AP exams are tough. Getting high scores in this exam requires you to invest a lot of time and effort into preparing for the test. But it’s well worth it. Impressive test scores lead to increased admission odds. Additionally, good scores make you eligible for college credit. Most colleges give credit to students who score …

college applications

How to Work on College Essays this Summer

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Ah, summer. The perfect time for sun, pool parties, and working on your college applications. Yep! Summer is the perfect opportunity to start working on your college prep, especially the essay! To work on your college essays during the coming weeks, follow these tips: Write Down Application Deadlines If you have a planner, the first …

college applications

How to Find College App Essay Inspiration

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you struggling to find a topic for your college application essay? It isn’t always easy to settle on one idea, especially if the school didn’t give you a common app prompt. These three tips will help you find inspiration for your essay. Brainstorm One of the best things you can do for your college …