college applications

How to Write an Essay Introduction

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 14, 2024

When it comes to telling a story, the beginning is an important part. Whether it’s the opening scene of a movie or the first chapter of a book, beginnings need to be interesting to get people’s attention. The same is true when it comes to writing an essay. This is especially true if you are …

questions & answers

Best Way to Learn Python

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

As technology takes the world by storm, it’s important to be well-versed in the tech language. Programs like Python are super popular and a great way to break into the tech world. To learn Python, you can take courses or do it on your own with free resources. When you take courses, you’ll be able …

college admissions, questions & answers

How Hard is it to Get Into Harvard?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 4, 2024

Key Takeaways: Harvard is one of the most difficult schools to get into in the nation due to the fact that it is a highly ranked college (usually in the top 3 of overall rankings) and that the school receives over around 56,000 applications each year. That’s a high number relative to the only around …

college applications

How to Prepare for the Common App

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

You absolutely should take time to enjoy your summer, but if you’re a junior about to head to senior year, don’t forget about your college applications completely! You should actually complete a few steps over the coming weeks so you’re not scrambling at the last minute to get it all done. We recommend starting early, …

ACT & SAT

Best SAT Prep Books: Your Guide to Success

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 15, 2026

Studying for the SAT is like studying for anything else. We all have strengths that we can feel confident in, weaknesses that we need to work on, and strategies we like to use. Figuring out the best way to study and prepare for the SAT is important since so many other important decisions may rest …

college admissions, college applications

9 important dates and deadlines for college bound high school seniors

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 4, 2026

Key takeaways College bound high school seniors should track important milestones like standardized tests dates, college application deadlines, and FAFSA opening to stay on schedule. Noting key deadlines can help ensure you don’t miss anything in the college application and planning process. For deadline or application submission questions, contact your counselor or college admissions office. …

college admissions, questions & answers

College Planning Timeline: Key Deadlines from Freshman Year to Senior Graduation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 15, 2025

Key Takeaways: January 1 is a common regular decision deadline for college applications, but students who want to apply early often need to submit applications in November. During high school, students should complete a variety of tasks to prepare for college, including meetings with academic advisors and scholarship research. Colleges start sending out regular decision …

questions & answers

Why Isn’t There a Common App for Scholarships?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

If you’re completing scholarship applications, you may be a bit overwhelmed by the number of forms you have to fill out and essays you need to complete. You wouldn’t be the first student to ask, “Why isn’t there a Common App for scholarships like there is for college applications?” Sadly, there are no standardized applications …

questions & answers

How Much Harder is High School Than Middle School?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

As you get ready to head into freshman year of high school, there’s no doubt there are some jitters. That’s okay! You might be pleasantly surprised to learn, however, that high school isn’t necessarily harder, but it is certainly different. High School vs. Middle School: Is It That Much Harder? It’s natural for classes to …

questions & answers

Requesting Dorms: How to Play the Game

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on June 12, 2025

Key Takeaways Before requesting your dorm room, decide what type of housing best fits your lifestyle and preferences—a traditional single or double room, suite style, or apartment style. It’s important to understand how the dorm request process works at your school and know your preferences beforehand. While some will go by orientation dates, others will …