college applications, questions & answers

Applying for College: Advice from Current College Students

By College Raptor StaffPublished on January 20, 2023

It’s the end of junior year and you’ve been doing college visits to see which ones to add to your college list. Now it’s time to start applying as you’re in your senior year or starting it soon. You can almost feel that high school diploma in your hand, but wait – you still need …

questions & answers

Digital Citizenship: Why It’s So Important for Students

By Hilary CairnsPublished on January 19, 2023

You likely follow many of the rules of digital citizenship without knowing it. From internet safety to etiquette, these may have already been ingrained in you by either your parents or teachers. But digital citizenship is more than safety online. Here’s a rundown of what it is, the 9 aspects of digital citizenship, and why …

college admissions

What is Direct Admission?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on January 4, 2023

You’re likely familiar with the admissions and application process at colleges – submit applications, wait for acceptance (or rejection) letters, and accept or decline the colleges’ offers. And that’s how many students will approach the application process. But there’s a new game in town – direct admissions. What is it though, what does it mean …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to prep for grad school: 8 key tips

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 26, 2026

Key takeaways When choosing your graduate school, it’s important to research different schools and compare their grad programs thoroughly to find the best fit.  Before applying for grad school, you should first consider your academic and career goals, whether it is financially feasible, and what you hope to get out of it.  You can prepare for grad school by making sure you know what …

questions & answers

How To Plan for College Graduation: 7 Must Do’s!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on June 2, 2026

Key takeaways: College graduation requires some planning, including ensuring all degree requirements are met, applying for graduation, and preparing logistics for the big day. Graduation is a celebration of academic achievement and a time to reflect on future goals, whether you are pursuing a career, further education, or taking a well-deserved break. Proactive steps like …

college applications

6 Last Minute College Application Tips (Including a Checklist!)

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 21, 2024

The final stretch of the college application season is here, and you’re just a few clicks away from crossing the finish line! This is an exciting yet intense time for high school seniors everywhere, as you wrap up applications that stand for months (if not years) of hard work, dedication, and planning. Your college application …

questions & answers

What is the NSHSS?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 29, 2024

The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) is a group for advanced students who have distinguished themselves among their peers. Students can join if they meet certain academic criteria and take advantage of several benefits, including exclusive scholarships. Keep reading to learn how you can qualify, the perks you can enjoy, and other details …

ACT & SAT

How to change an SAT test date

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026

Key takeaways Students can change their SAT date by canceling their existing test date and scheduling a new one. Although students will receive a registration fee refund, there is a cancellation fee. Students should cancel and reschedule their SAT if they are not prepared for the exam or if they have a scheduling conflict. As …

college admissions

What Happens if You Miss a College Application Deadline?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 27, 2025

College applications should always be turned in on time. For many schools, it is impossible to turn in applications past the deadline (usually January 1st). However, mistakes, and life, happen. You may have experienced a technical issue that didn’t allow you to submit your application, you could have had an emergency, you were waiting on …

questions & answers

What To Do After Graduation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 12, 2025

So, you’ve graduated high school – now what? Well, first off, congratulations on graduation! You’ve done a wonderful job and your whole life is ahead of you. This is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time for planning. So here are some tips and ideas on what to do after your graduate high …