Getting In Articles | Page 6 of 94 | College Raptor

Summer activities, like doing volunteer work, can impress college admissions.

How Many Volunteer Hours Do You Really Need for College?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 20, 2024

Key Takeaway: If you’re considering volunteering in high school, you might wonder how many hours you’ll need for your college application. While 50-200 hours is typical, the focus should be on your motivation for volunteering rather than the exact number of hours. Colleges value genuine passion for giving back to the community and making a …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to Get Good Grades

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 16, 2024

Whether you’re in high school or college, grades matter. They can impact your acceptance chances to higher education institutions, scholarship offers, merit aid opportunities, and even job prospects after graduation. It can also affect your self-esteem while improving your foundational knowledge that leads to success later in the classroom and in life in general. But …

A student writing his college application essay.

college admissions, college applications

Types of College Essays and How to Approach Them

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 16, 2024

Although a majority of colleges require application essays, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all topic. There are actually several different college essay types you could be asked to write. They can vary in length requirements, prompts, and style. Some even may request more than one! To help you prepare for your college applications, we listed out some …

Check out these ACT test prep websites to help you study.

ACT & SAT

What Is the ACT Exam and Should You Take It?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 19, 2024

Key Takeaway The ACT (which stands for American College Testing) is a three-hour entrance exam that measures college readiness in English, math, reading, and science. There is also an optional essay section. While it is not required for you to submit your ACT scores to most colleges, it’s generally recommended that students take it to …

college applications

What are extracurriculars (ECs)? A complete guide

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2026

Key takeaways Extracurricular activities are programs, clubs, sports, jobs, and volunteer opportunities outside the classroom. Participating in extracurriculars can help you build skills, explore interests, and strengthen college applications. Colleges often value commitment and leadership more than the number of activities you participate in. Balancing school and extracurriculars can help you build time-management skills. Choosing …

college admissions

A Guide to The High School Equivalency Test (HiSet)

By Hilary CairnsPublished on July 3, 2024

You’ve likely heard of the GED, but did you know you have another option when it comes to getting the equivalent of a high school diploma? The HiSET, or High School Equivalency Test, is an exam that can open the door to new opportunities, including higher education and careers that require a high school degree. …

college admissions

How to Get Into UVA if You Live Out of State

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 1, 2024

For the fall 2022 enrollment cycle, the out of state acceptance rate at UVA (University of Virginia) was 32%. So, what does this mean for non-Virginians aspiring to get into this prestigious university? If you’re a non-Virginian, a 32% out of state acceptance rate means it could be difficult to get into UVA, but definitely …

Craft an impressive personal statement with these tips

college applications

Beyond the basics: Elevating your personal statement format

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 15, 2026

Key takeaways A personal statement is the main essay of your college application. Your personal statement is a great opportunity to highlight your values, strengths, and unique experiences. When you write your personal statement, grab your reader’s attention with a unique story, vivid details, or a line that sparks curiosity. A good personal statement can …

Here's how to pick the right college for athletes

college admissions

NCSA: Connecting Student Athletes with College Coaches

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 10, 2024

Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) is a recruiting platform that helps connect students with coaches. It can streamline the recruiting process and make it easier for students to understand their options as a student-athlete. If you’re thinking about continuing your favorite sport during your college years, here’s what you need to know about the NCSA, …

What SAT or ACT scores do you need to get into Harvard?

college admissions

How Many People Apply To Harvard Each Year?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 4, 2024

In the 2024 application cycle (and 2023 early admission cycle) 54,008 people applied to Harvard. Of those that applied only 1,937 students were accepted – that’s 3.58% acceptance rate and one of the lowest in the country. According the the Harvard Gazette, this makes it the fourth year running that the school has received over …

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