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 Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 12, 2026

Most Early Action deadlines are on November 1 or November 15, but they can range from October 1 to December 1 depending on the school. Many students hear back from their colleges by the end of December. However, an early submission means starting on your application sooner, so you’ll need a game plan if you …

college applications

What are good grades in high school?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2026

Key insights Good grades in high school are generally defined as As and Bs, or a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. “Good” is relative, and it depends on your target colleges, course rigor, and personal goals. Colleges consider the difficulty of your courses, not just your GPA. Grade inflation is a …

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 …

college admissions

Social Media Mistakes High School Students Make

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Teens are not strangers to social media. Although the generation has grown up with the technology, mistakes are still made on the platforms. These errors could cost you scholarships, college options, or even jobs down the line. Here are three social media mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Creating Unprofessional Profile Names A common mistake that …

college admissions

3 Summer College Prep Mistakes High Schoolers Make

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you just finish your junior or sophomore year of high school? Congratulations on another year under your belt! While summer is ahead of you, you don’t want to entirely waste it. Here are some college prep mistakes high schoolers tend to make during the warmer months. Mistake #1: Not Using This Time For College …