college admissions

Which are better: Honors or AP

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

College admissions have become extremely competitive over the years. High school students hoping to attend a top school often choose either Honors or AP classes to be better prepared. While both will help improve your chances of getting admission into a reputed college, they are not the same. It’s important to understand the differences between …

ACT & SAT

Top 10 SAT Test Taking Tips

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 29, 2024

Sitting for the SAT can be daunting! After all, your score on this exam can affect your admission chances at many colleges and universities across the United States. If you have an SAT date on the horizon, here are some helpful tips for taking the SAT. 10 SAT Study and Test Taking Tips 1. Use …

ACT & SAT

Top 5 ACT Test Taking Tips

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Despite preparing extensively, most students overlook some simple concepts that harm their final ACT score. The fault may not necessarily lie in not knowing the subject matter or being smart enough to perform. The main reason is that ACT requires a lot of quick thinking, picking up on clues. Using certain tricks to get the …

college applications

Why You Should Talk To A College BEFORE Applying

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

All colleges encourage students to talk to them and ask them questions at any time before, during, or after the application process and this is something you should take advantage of. Clarification Questions Here’s the first and foremost reason why you should talk to a college before applying. You can get clarifications on anything you …

college applications

Is Optional Really Optional? Beware of Leaving Out “Optional” Elements in College Apps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Growing up with the internet, you’re used to those forms that have stars next to the mandatory questions, with optional being just that—optional. However, when it comes to “optional” on college apps, it really may not be in your best interest to skip it. Here are a few examples of things that some colleges say …

ACT & SAT

Basic Rules To Keep In Mind When Taking The ACT / SAT

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may be totally prepared for your ACT / SAT test in terms of the study material but the pressures of test day can make anyone a little nervous. In addition to studying for the test, it helps to know and keep these basic rules in mind during the exam. Don’t Waste Time Struggling To …

college admissions

Myth: Ivy Leagues are the Most Selective Schools

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s a common thought that Ivy League schools are the most selective schools of all the colleges and universities in the United States. You’ll find that’s not exactly the case. Ivy League Acceptance Rates Harvard is the most selective school out of the Ivy Leagues, selecting only 5% of applicants, with Yale right behind, only accepting …

college admissions

Myth: Most Students Are Not Accepted into Their First Pick School

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

You might have heard how a surprisingly large percentage of college students aren’t attending their first choice schools. The number has been increasing steadily since 2006. In 2011, around 43% of students did not attend their first choice schools. That’s the lowest it’s been since UCLA began conducting the student survey in 1974. However, it’s …

college admissions

What NOT to Ask During a College Visit

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

During your college visits, you may have a list of questions you want to ask, either as a student or a parent. These may include questions about campus life, classes, majors, or town. There are a few questions though that you will want to steer clear of. Here are some questions to NOT ask during a …

college admissions

The Importance of College Admissions Interviews

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on November 28, 2023

Some colleges and universities will have interviews as part of their admissions process. Whether they’re required or recommended, college interviews are important. They shouldn’t be skipped, and students participating in them should always put their best foot forward. Here are some things you need to know about college admissions interviews and what you can expect …