All Getting in Articles

Are selective colleges better than non-selective ones?
myths

Myth: The More Selective a School is, The Better

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Each college has a different percentage of students they admit. Some colleges only accept a few applicants, others accept the vast majority. However, exclusivity always gives off the feeling of “best.” Not everyone can get in, so selective colleges are better. Right? College Fit is More Important than Selectivity Selective colleges are not automatically a …
No U Turn signage with sad face above it.
questions & answers

What Happens if You Back Out of Early Decision?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: Early decision applications are a binding agreement – accepted students are expected to attend the following fall. Students can generally back out of the agreement if they can’t afford the school, have a sick family member, or are facing an illness. Backing out without an acceptable reason can result in rescinded acceptance offers …
It's a myth that if you're deferred admission, you'll never be accepted.
myths

Myth: If I’m Deferred From a School, I’ll Never Get In

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Depending on how you look at it, getting deferred by a school could be a load off your mind or extremely frustrating. You haven’t been declined, yet you haven’t been accepted, putting you in a difficult spot. You may have heard the myth that you simply won’t get into the college after being deferred admission. …
Are there easier SAT and ACT test dates?
myths

Myth: There are Easier Testing Dates for the ACT/SAT

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
The myth about easier SAT and ACT test dates is so ingrained and so pervasive, people are still arguing about it. But where did the myth come from? And why has it stuck around so long? Origin of the Myth People love to swear by data, numbers, and studies. There were comparative studies done, looking at …
Getting good high school grades doesn't mean you don't need to study for the SAT or ACT.
myths

Myth: No Need to Study for ACT/SAT if You Have Good Grades

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Some students in high school find they don’t have to study particularly hard to get good high school grades. But that method can get them in trouble when it comes to the two big college entrance exams—the ACT and SAT. So even the most talented students should focus on and study up! A Different Kind …
A lecture hall with brown chairs and a blackboard in front.
questions & answers

Can Your Declared Major Affect Your Acceptance Odds?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Students applying for college want to have every edge they can when it comes to their application college acceptance odds, especially when it involves a dream school. So many students wonder if their intended major will alter their college acceptance odds or not. Here’s what you need to know. Each School is Different Every school …
Don't avoid the ACT just because you don't do well in science.
myths

Myth: If You Don’t Like Science, You Should Avoid the ACT!

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are so many myths that surround the ACT and SAT it could make your head spin. Many myths directly relate to which test you should (supposedly) take. One of which, is that if you’re not good at science, you shouldn’t take the ACT. Origin of the Myth This misconception stems from the fact that …
Boost your college acceptance odds with these helpful tips.
college admissions

9 tips to help you boost your college acceptance odds

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 27, 2025
Key takeaways A strong college application includes your academics, extracurriculars, awards, essay, recommendation letters, and careful attention to detail. From your essay and extracurriculars to your online presence, focus on highlighting the depth of your experiences to set your application apart. Take your time and be intentional with each part of your application so colleges …
A tutor writing on a chalkboard with two students standing behind them.
questions & answers

Should You Get a Tutor to Prepare for the ACT / SAT?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
With so much emphasis put on these two entrance exams, it makes sense that people want to go above and beyond to prepare. After all, the scores you can affect more than just acceptance odds, they can determine your eligibility for scholarships too! When free prep methods don’t feel like enough, should you turn to …
Does a college interview make up for weak test scores and grades?
myths

Myth: College Interviews Will Make Up For Weaker GPA And Test Scores

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Maybe a student is a confident orator and a people’s person. They perform exceedingly well during face-to-face interactions such as college interviews. Maybe, however, they don’t fare too well in written tests. Under these circumstances, they may be wondering about their chances of getting accepted into the college of their choice. Will a college interview …

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