college admissions

When Should I Have My Final College Choice?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The college search and application processes are long journeys. Between researching, visiting, applying, and comparing, it can feel like you ran a marathon. Deciding on your final college choice is the home stretch. Wondering, “When Should I Have My Final College Choice?” We’ll answer that question and more here. Timeline for Narrowing College Choices This …

college admissions

Do Freshman Grades Matter For College Admissions?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

As a freshman, college is still four long years away. Should you really be worrying about getting good grades for college admission already? Do colleges actually check a student’s grades all the way back from freshman year? If you’re just entering freshman year, you should know that this is the right time to start working …

college applications

Coalition Application Essay Prompts 2020-2021

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Coalition App is a centralized application system, much like the Common App. You use it to apply to multiple colleges at one time instead of submitting individual applications to each college. All students submitting their college application through the Coalition App are required to write and submit a personal essay. Let’s go over the …

college applications

How AP Scores Affect Your College Applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

AP classes are rigorous and challenging. As such, they’re great boosters for a college application. But how exactly do AP scores affect your college applications? What are the pros and cons? Let’s break it down together. How AP Scores Can Influence Your College Applications An AP class on your transcript tells the college that you’re …

college applications

An Overview of College Application Requirements

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Applying to a college can feel both exciting and intimidating. There are a lot of elements that go into an application, after all. With so many moving pieces, how do you keep track of it all? Let’s cover the basics of college application requirements. Common College Application Requirements There are some requirements that are common …

college applications

50 Creative College Essay Topics

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 12, 2025

Key Takeaways Most college applications include an essay requirement—some have specific prompts, while others leave it more open-ended. Infusing creativity into your essay is a great way to showcase your skills and personality. From the best advice you’ve ever received to your biggest fears to time travel fantasies—we’re diving into 50 creative essay topics worth …

college applications

What is the Early Action Deadline?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

As you start shortlisting colleges to apply to, you’ll see that many colleges offer the option of early action. You must take time to understand what ‘early action’ means, and how it affects you. This will help you make a more informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you. The Basics of Early …

college applications

What Is A Good GPA in High School?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 10, 2025

As a high school student applying for college, you’ll hear a lot about the importance of cumulative GPA for college admissions. You may know that GPA is essentially a snapshot of your academic performance, but do you know what a good cumulative GPA looks like and exactly how it impacts your college application? Before discussing …

online colleges

How To Make The Most Out Of Online Class Benefits

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Attending online classes can be completely different from attending in-person classes. Is this your first experience outside the physical classroom? These tips will help you overcome common challenges and make the most of online class benefits. Tip #1 – Familiarize Yourself with Your School’s Virtual Portal Every college has its own uniquely designed virtual portal …

college admissions

The Month Before College Checklist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

The month before you head to college can be quite stressful. After all, you have a lot on your plate! This before-college checklist can help you track all of the tasks you need to get completed so you can be sure you’re first week at college (and your entire semester) is stress-free and enjoyable! Packing …