ACT & SAT

A Breakdown of the Different College Entrance Exams

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Getting into college isn’t as easy as submitting your high school transcript and writing a few essays. One very important element to a college application are college entrance exams and your scores. The most well-known college entrance exams, of course, are the ACT and SAT, but let’s break down the others as well. PSAT / …

questions & answers

Why Do Some Colleges Require the ACT/SAT and Others Don’t?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

While a majority of colleges and universities still do require students to submit their ACT/SAT test scores, there is a growing trend of schools that don’t require scores. These are known as test-optional schools.  Why Test-Optional? There is an ongoing debate about the validity of standardized testing exams. Some argue that they aren’t an accurate representation …

questions & answers

Are SAT Subject Tests Required?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The aim of the general SAT test is to evaluate your reasoning skills and your readiness for college. The SAT Subject tests, on the other hand, is meant to assess your knowledge in a specific subject area. If you are wondering whether SAT subject tests are required, the answer is it depends. SAT Subject Tests Can …

college applications

How to Balance Summer College Prep Activities

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

For most students, summer means free time, friends, family, and fun. Although unwinding before entering senior year is important, it is just as important to make time for a few college prep activities to help alleviate impending senior year stress. Summer Reading Just because you aren’t enrolled in Advanced Placement doesn’t mean you can’t read …

ACT & SAT

All About SAT Subject Tests

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 24, 2025

You know about the SAT, but have you ever heard about the SAT Subject Tests? They’re another way to help your admission chances with colleges. Here’s everything you need to know: What are the SAT Subject Tests? Rather than testing you on a number of subjects like the SAT or ACT, the SAT Subject Tests …

college applications

How to boost your GPA this summer

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2026

Key takeaways You could boost your GPA this summer by getting a tutor, taking summer classes, and doing additional subject work. Summer classes can help you graduate early, boost your GPA, and lighten your load during the school year. Many students benefit from smaller class sizes in the summer and more one-on-one time with their …

myths

Myths About College Orientation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Your freshman orientation will most likely have a LOT going on, from meeting your roommate for the first time to first semester course selection. But you may have heard quite a few myths about this event at the same time. Here are a few of those debunked. Myth: Parents Aren’t Allowed At Orientation This “myth” …

questions & answers

What Is Freshman Orientation?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 9, 2024

Starting college is an exciting adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences. One of the first steps is freshman orientation. But what exactly is freshman orientation? What does it involve, and why is it important? Let’s talk about it. What is Freshman Orientation in College? Freshman orientation is essentially an introduction to college life at …

questions & answers

What is SAT Score Choice?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you take the SAT multiple times, you get the option of choosing which scores to send as part of your college application and which scores remain undisclosed. This is known as SAT Score Choice. Should I Submit These Scores? Students who are not happy with their SAT scores often choose to retake the test …

college applications

2 Ways to Find Volunteer Work That Suits You This Summer

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you know that volunteering can be a great way to boost your college application? It helps you develop crucial transferable skills, from communication and interpersonal skills to team working and leadership skills. You will also hone your time management, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. All of these skills can add serious weight to your …