questions & answers

What is NSHSS? Costs, benefits, and reputation explained

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 19, 2026

Key takeaways NSHSS stands for the National Society of High School Scholars and is an international academic honor society. NSHSS requirements include at least one academic benchmark, such as a 3.5 GPA, a 1280 SAT score, or a 26 ACT score. NSHSS student membership benefits include scholarships, leadership programs, networking, and academic discounts. NSHSS, the …

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 …

college applications

How to win student council: 12 tips for running your campaign

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 23, 2026

Key takeaways Student council leaders help make their school a better place by representing the student body, planning activities, advocating for change, and improving school culture. To win your student council campaign, it’s important to pick a role that fits you, make sure you are eligible to run, and get to know your school and …

college applications, questions & answers

What does cumulative GPA mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 19, 2026

Key takeaways Cumulative GPA is the average of all the grades you’ve earned throughout high school or college. You calculate your cumulative GPA by dividing your total grade points by your total credit hours. Taking challenging classes and improving your grades can help raise your cumulative GPA. Cumulative GPA, or cumulative grade point average, means …

ACT & SAT

What is The Highest Possible ACT Score?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 4, 2025

The highest ACT score you can earn is 36. This is the composite ACT score and is calculated by averaging the scores in four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Each of the 4 ACT sections is scored on a scale of 1 – 36. What is the Highest Possible ACT Score? The highest possible …

college admissions, questions & answers

What is the Difference Between Weighted and Unweighted GPA?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 30, 2025

Key Takeaways Unweighted GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale and treats all classes equally, regardless of difficulty level. Weighted GPA accounts for course rigor by assigning higher point values to advanced courses like AP, IB, and Honors classes, typically using a 5.0 scale. Colleges understand that high schools use different GPA systems and will …

questions & answers

Ultimate Graduation Checklist For Parents

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 2, 2026

Key takeaways: Parents can help their students prepare for college by visiting campuses, reviewing potential majors, and completing the FAFSA with them. As graduation approaches, help them compare their financial aid offers, review college options, and plan their graduation party. During the summer before college, spend quality time together, consider attending parent orientation, and assist …

college admissions

6 Great Alternatives to Traditional 4-Year College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Is a traditional four-year college program just not for you at the moment? Whether you don’t know what you want to do career-wise or the idea of four years in college straight out of high school, there are options available to you! Check out some great alternatives to traditional college below. Why should you consider …