college admissions

What is the Student Support Services (SSS) for Federal TRIO?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 7, 2025

Key Takeaways: The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program provides resources to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Projects can include academic advising, scholarships, FAFSA assistance, mentoring programs, and more. Students can apply for a SSS program by visiting their school’s website or contacting their financial aid office. Student Support Services is one of the programs under …

ACT & SAT

5 Reasons You Should Still Take the ACT and SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 29, 2024

Many colleges and universities don’t require you to take the ACT or SAT to apply or be accepted. However, if your dream school lists these exams as “optional”, it may still be in your best interest to take them. If you find yourself asking, “Should I take the SAT or ACT?” here are five reasons …

college applications

What are TRIO Educational Opportunity Centers?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have not heard of them, but Educational Opportunity Centers are one part of the Federal TRIO Programs. If you’re from a disadvantaged background or area, they may be something you want to look into to ensure you’re starting your college education off on the right foot. Here is an explanation of TRIO is …

ACT & SAT

How To Make a Persuasive Essay on the ACT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

During high school, you’re probably most used to writing an essay to prove a fact. You’ve probably written some though that focused on your opinion. That’s what the ACT looks for. They provide you with an essay topic where you have to write on your opinion and work on persuading the reader to see it …

college applications

The Benefits of Taking AP Courses

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Advanced Placement courses aren’t for the academically weak. But just because the average student may have to work harder to be successful with an AP course doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still try taking one. Advanced Placement is a positive determining factor not only for high school success, but college success as well. Keep reading to …

ACT & SAT

Calculator Tips for the SAT Math Section

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You should never attempt to take the SAT without a calculator, but not any old calculator will do. There are some tips and things you should keep in mind when preparing for the exam (and on the test date). Here are some calculator tips to remember for the SAT: Bring The Right Calculator Bringing the …

ACT & SAT

How to Prep For ACT Science If It’s Not Your Favorite Subject

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Whether you just don’t enjoy science or it’s not your best subject, you may be dreading the science section on the ACT. However, if you’re taking this exam, you still need to prepare for this subject. Here are ways you can prep for some ACT science questions even if it’s not your favorite class. Practice …

college applications

People Who Can Review Your College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Getting someone to review your college application is always a good idea. A fresh pair of eyes is more likely to spot a typo, some awkward sentence, or a wrong detail that you may have overlooked. Of course, asking the right person is important. When looking for someone to review your college application, these are …

ACT & SAT

6 Reasons Why You Should Attend ACT/SAT Review Sessions

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 21, 2024

Does your high school, local community college, or local community center offer ACT and SAT review sessions? You should seriously think about attending them as they can be great tools to improve your ACT and SAT scores, getting more familiar with the material, and practice taking the exam. You might even have access to expensive …

questions & answers

What is the Federal TRIO Talent Search Program?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 1, 2024

The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) are a selection of eight programs that are “designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.” Talent Search (TS) is one program. It offers counseling to students that can help them pursue higher education. Here’s a rundown of TRIO, how Talent Search can assist eligible students, and …