ACT & SAT

How to Prepare for the ACT in 10 Easy Steps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 17, 2025

Many colleges and universities still require the ACT (or SAT) from their applicants. Did you know the ACT could also help you qualify for grants and scholarships? It’s not a test you should just “wing.” Preparing for the exam can help you get into your dream college and potentially win free money. Here are some …

ACT & SAT

PSATS are Over – Now What?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Juniors: Congratulations on finishing up the PSATs! That’s behind you, but what do you do after the PSAT? We’ll cover a few exciting things to think about, and also give some tips for freshmen and sophomores who may be up for the PSATs next. You May Win a Scholarship You may just have thought of …

questions & answers

Deadlines – How Important Are They?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

No matter where you are in life, there are going to be deadlines. There are going to be due dates for your homework and projects, work obligations, taxes, driver’s licenses, and more. It’s vital to learn the importance of deadlines and sticking to them early on. Here are just a few consequences of constantly failing …

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 …

ACT & SAT

Why Breaks Are Important

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

No matter where you are in the college search process, whether just starting your list or polishing those applications, you need to be taking breaks. This includes breaks from studying for the SAT or ACT, scholarship applications, and your junior or senior year work. While you have a lot to get done, you also need …

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, …

ACT & SAT

How to Prep for the SAT and ACT At the Same Time

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 22, 2024

Are you considering taking the SAT and the ACT? It is possible to prep for both tests at the same time, but you’ll need a game plan. Follow these tips to create a stress-free strategy that sets you up for success on exam days. 1. Consider Your Schedule and Goals Before you commit to taking …